Eight beauty lies to stop buying into

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Lie #1: Oil is bad for your skin. If you’ve ever had acne, you’re likely scrupulous about your skin care. Most sufferers avoid anything with oil for fear of causing a breakout. But the right type of oil can have multiple skincare benefits. Essential oils such as rose, eucalyptus, chamomile and tea tree oil have aromatherapeutic benefits as well as moisturizing and healing your skin. Others such as olive, avocado and jojoba are fabulous for both skin and hair.

Lie #2: You should test lipstick on the inside of your wrist. Every woman has different pigmentation in their lips so the colours will look different on everyone. To get an accurate sense of what shades will work for you test the colour on your pout. Wear a white or neutral top and check the look in natural lighting so there are no visual distractions. Make sure the shade is properly sanitized at the makeup counter and then swipe a layer on your lips.

Lie #3: You can shrink your pores. Sorry ladies, your pore size is genetically predetermined. Some products such as astringents or clay masks may temporarily shrink the appearance of your pores by unclogging the gunk (dirt, oil and makeup) but they’re still the same size. To reduce their appearance, apply a primer before your foundation.

Lie #4: What you eat gives you acne. While the food you consume in the long run could affect the way your skin looks (in terms of vitamin and mineral content), it’s mainly your lifestyle choices and hormones that affect your complexion. Smoking, a lack of sleep or too much sun will all affect your complexion more than that chocolate bar you noshed on.

Lie #5: You need to cut your hair to grow it long. Depending on your hairstylist this can be a truth or a lie. While many stylists say you should get regular trims every six to 10 weeks, if you’re chopping off the same amount that grows (about a half inch a month) then it’s going to take longer to grow it out. If it’s dry or badly damaged though, you may have to start from scratch and do one big cut before opting for small trims. Use a deep conditioner and avoid too much heat when styling to grow long, healthy locks.

Lie #6: Natural products are better for your skin. While natural products can have many benefits they’re not always more effective — and they’re not for everyone. Many lack preservatives (hence less chemicals) so they won’t have a long shelf life and they can be pricey. Some products can cause just as many if not more allergic reactions than your standard buys if you have sensitive skin. Also, the word natural is not regulated so there could be multiple ingredients that you’re aiming to avoid. Do your research before you make a commitment.

Lie #7: Get clear skin by spot treating. While it might seem like it, pimples don’t actually pop up overnight. Bumps can form underneath your skin so you need to follow a preventative routine of exfoliating, toning, moisturizing and applying a topical ointment such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide and not just to one area. If your skin is easily irritated opt for gentler formulas for all over and then spot treat any painful bumps that are looming.

Lie #8: You only need sunscreen when it’s sunny. Sunscreen is not just for the beach — it should be a part of your regular routine. That goes for cloudy days, wintertime and driving. If you’re not sold on the texture use a moisturizer with a built-in formula but make sure you’re applying enough to protect your skin. For a day of fun in the sun and sand make sure to reapply every two hours and wear sun protective clothing.