Health

3 Common Skin Myths Dermatologists In Singapore Have To Clarify

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Skin is the largest organ in the body. No wonder why dermatologists in Singapore have to answer tons of questions and clarify myths and misconceptions about the skin. This article will shed light on the most common misconceptions about the skin.

MYTH #1: YOU MUST USE ANTIBACTERIAL SOAP

Did you know that 1.5 trillion germs are living on the skin? Cutting your skin allows these germs to enter your body and cause infection. It is advisable to use antibacterial soap to minimise the germ population and reduce the risk of infection.

TRUTH:

Antibacterial soap can do more harm than good. Indeed there are trillions of bacteria on the skin, but these are a combination of good and bad. Upsetting the balance between the two is terrible. Moreover, antibacterial soaps are much harsher than regular soaps. They strip natural oil of the skin and cause a pH imbalance. It can cause more irritation to people with eczema and end up getting an eczema treatment in Singapore. But it is helpful to wash your hands with soap, especially when touching the face to avoid spreading diseases. MYTH #2: PEOPLE WITH LESS EXPOSURE TO THE SUN ARE LESS LIKELY TO GET SKIN CANCER UV rays are the number one culprit for skin cancer. Therefore, limiting your sun exposure reduces the risk of acquiring one.

TRUTH:

It does not matter how long you expose yourself to the sun because even brief exposure can still inflict significant damage on the skin. Furthermore, although UV rays exposure is a risk factor for cancer, it can also be hereditary. For example, familial melanoma is a type of hereditary skin cancer. Skin cancers have a combination of environmental and genetic risk factors, so it is advisable not to be complacent. It is advantageous to get cancer screenings regularly and undergo skin cancer treatment in Singapore as early as possible.

MYTH #3: VITAMIN E FADES SCAR

Many people with acne or suture scars apply creams and salve with vitamin E to fade and reduce the appearance of scars.

TRUTH:

To this day, there is little to no strong evidence and studies that prove that vitamin E is indeed effective in getting rid of scars. But there are more effective and proven methods that fade and reduce scarring on the skin. One of the procedures is laser treatment for pigmentation. Don’t fall for these misconceptions. Your best sources for information about the skin are your dermatologists in Singapore. Are you looking for an STI screening in Singapore? Perhaps, skin cancer treatment? Visit Thomson Specialist Skin Centre today.