Debunking Social Media Skincare Myths

Does sunscreen cause cancer? That’s just one of the many skincare myths circulating this summer on social media. As a dermatologist at Refine by Medcan, Dr. Jennifer Tran gets a lot of questions about what’s trending on the various platforms. So in this episode, Dr. Tran provides her take on what’s based in scientific evidence — and what is completely suspect. Featuring such topics as snail mucin, pimple patches, benzoyl peroxide and benzene, glass skin, red LED lights, whether kids should be buying expensive skincare products and whether a flax seed facemask can function as a more cost-effective alternative to neuromodulators. 

For both audio and video of this show visit the official episode page at: https://medcan.com/podcast/social-media-skincare-myths-205/

LINKS

Arrange an appointment with Refine by Medcan at one of its convenient locations today.  

Follow double-board certified dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Tran on Instagram @drjenntran.

A positive account from a woman who incorporated snail mucin into her routine. And here’s an article that provides more detail on how snail mucin is extracted.

More about the K-beauty trend, glass skin.  

A good article examining how pimple patches work. 

The academic article describing the link between benzoyl peroxide and benzene. Another article, by CNN, notes that the study was in part based on a test that stored the skincare treatment at 158 degrees Fahrenheit for 17 hours. 

Why 10-year-olds are buying expensive skincare routines, from the National Post.

An academic study examines the efficacy of red LED light therapy.  

This article features another derm weighing in on the the “flax seed as neuromodulator” trend.  

KEY MOMENTS 

00:00 Introduction

01:19 Dr. Tran introduces herself and the topics she will cover, including pimple patches, sunscreen, benzoyl peroxide, "glass skin", expensive skincare for children, red light LED masks, snail mucin, and flaxseed as an alternative to Botox.

03:34 Dr. Tran provides her verdict on pimple patches.

05:15 Dr. Tran addresses the myth that sunscreen causes cancer, stating that there is overwhelming evidence that sunscreen protects against skin cancer, and recommends mineral sunscreens as a safe alternative to chemical sunscreens.

06:32 Dr. Tran discusses the "glass skin" trend, explaining that it requires a combination of skincare products and in-office procedures to achieve the desired luminous, glowing skin.

08:16 Dr. Tran expresses concern about the trend of younger people, including children, being targeted with expensive skincare products, stating that this can be harmful to their self-esteem and body image.

11:06 Dr. Tran discusses red light LED masks, stating that they can provide some benefits, but are very expensive, and that in-office procedures may be more effective.

12:54 Dr. Tran addresses the trend of using snail mucin and flaxseed as skincare ingredients, explaining the potential benefits and drawbacks of each.

14:41 Dr. Tran concludes by advising listeners to be cautious of skincare trends on social media and to consult with a dermatologist before trying new products or remedies.