1. MYTH: All cosmetic products are TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) approved.

TRUTH: Wrong. 'Light regulation' means there are no guarantees. Cosmetics aren't defined as having medical value, so the TGA intereferes only if there are harming ingredients or blatantly misleading claims (like 90% wrinkle reduction!). Buyer beware.


2. MYTH:Spot treatments are best for pimples

TRUTH: No. Pimples can form under the skin for weeks, so just treating the ones you can see means you are neglecting the ones that can pop up later. Follow a preventitive, full-face regimen to stop pimples before they occur.


3. MYTH:Your skin will age like your mother's

TRUTH: No. Genetics determine your skin's colour, texture and pore size, but habits play a bigger role. Hoping for your mum's skin isn't enough. Skipping SPF, drinking, smoking and stress are the key factors in premature skin ageing.


4.MYTH: Hypoallergenic products can't cause allergic reactions

TRUTH: Wrong. TGA approved products go through some form of allergy testing, but products are ultimately overseen by the companies, and therefore not regulated. While generally safe, hypoallergenic often means the absence of fragrance, which is not the only factor in skin reaction.


5. MYTH:Botox can cause facial paralysis

TRUTH: No. While botox does cause minimal, temporary muscle paralysis, you would have to be injected with a truckload of it to cause complete paralysis. It relaxes the muscles contractions that cause wrinkles, and is broken down by the body completely within six months. (Only to be administered by a professional.)


6.MYTH: Skin pores open and close

TRUTH: Wrong. Pores are skin openings that alow sebum to flow to the surface to keep skin supple. If your pores are enlarged, it can be due to a build up of dead skin cells within them. Exfoliation minimises skin congestion and keeps pores looking smaller.


7. MTYH: Sensitive skin is something you're born with.

TRUTH: Wrong. Sensitivity can occur at any time. Many people experience first-time sensitivity or irritations in their 30s, and for any number of reasons: hormonal changes, seasonal reactions or latent allergies. Seek professional help.


8. MYTH: It's never too early to start using anti-ageing products

TRUTH: No. All skins age differently, but before your mid thirties emphasis should be on preventing damage. Use a daily SPF and antioxidant-rich moisturiser to counteract environmental damage before it comes visible.


9. MYTH: Anti-ageing makeup is a gimmick

TRUTH: No. Makeup today, especially mineral makeup, incorporates skin protecting ingredients like antixoidants, vitamins and SPF that nourish skin and protect against sun damage and pollution.


Advanced Association of Beauty Therapists - www.aabth.com.au