We have all heard beauty tricks from our mum or grandmother and wondered how accurate they are. Here are a few old wives’ tales about beauty, several of which are actually true — time to thank your great-grandmother for those timeless tricks and continue to pass them on to future generations!
WASHING YOUR FACE WITH SOAP MAKES YOUR SKIN DRY AND FLAKY
True: Washing your face with soap can have a negative affect on your skin, particularly if you use soap on your face. Often, these soaps contain chemicals that can really dry out the skin leaving your with a dull and flaky appearance.
LEMON LIGHTENS SKIN
True/False: Whist lemon does have a gentle bleaching effect, it’s not enough to make a significant difference.
TOOTHPASTE TREATS SPOTS
False: It won’t clear a spot, but it usually contains menthol which can cool skin and soothe inflammation.
WARM VEGETABLE OIL HELPS DRY, CRACKED SKIN
True: Applying warm vegetable oil will help soften dry skin. Sweet almond oil contains vitamins and minerals, proteins and glycosides and is anti-inflammatory. Avocado oil is also deeply penetrating and is rich in vitamins A, D and E and lecithin and potassium.
WASHING YOUR FACE WITH COLD WATER REDUCES THE SIZE OF PORES
False: Unfortunately, there is not much we can do to change the size of our pores. Cold water also does not effectively remove the daily grime and hot water may irritate and dry out your skin. We always suggest cleansing your face with warm water as it helps loosen the dirt but preserves your skin's natural hydrating oils!
FLAXSEED OIL HELPS DRY OR ECZEMA-PRONE SKIN
True: The omega oils help nourish skin cells and ward off dry, flaky skin.
TEA TREE OIL HELPS WITH ACNE
True: If you suffer from acne, using some essential oils can help, particularly tea tree oil. "Tea tree oil is a natural antibiotic that helps fight pimple causing bacteria," but as it is quite strong, it is best to only use it as a spot treatment!