10 Beauty Myths Uncovered

Myth 1: Cucumbers Can Decrease Puffiness Around Eyes
We’ve all heard the same beauty myths over and over again, like using cucumbers to help de-puff eyes, but do they really work? We enlisted experts to help find out the truth. When it comes to those cool cucumbers helping to reducing puffiness around the eyes, aesthetician and Global Creative Director at Red Door Spas, Cornelia Zicu, says it’s true–thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties like Vitamin A and C. “Cucumbers also provide a brightening effect, making them a great home remedy for dark circles.” Try on eyeshadow in the Makeover Studio!
Myth 2: Shampoos Stop Working If You Don’t Regularly Switch Them Up
We thought this old wives’ tale was just a ploy conjured up by sneaky marketing execs, but turns out we were wrong! “The hair definitely builds up a resistance to the same product over time,” says Renee Cohen, hairstylist at The Serge Normant John Frieda Salon. “I always keep at least two different shampoos and conditioners in the shower. Like a good workout you should switch it up.” Try on new hairstyles in the Makeover Studio!
Myth 3: Shaving Causes Hair To Grow Back Thicker And Faster
For (most) ladies, shaving your legs is an inevitable part of the beauty routine. And although your end goal is to wind up with silky, smooth legs that’s not always the case. Unfortunately, when you drag that razor across, you’re cutting the hair at the thickest area–the midshaft. According to Zicu, this causes the hair follicle to grow back in the form of stubble, which comes back stiffer and larger. Check out Skincare At Every Age!
Myth 4: Adding Mayonnaise To Hair Will Make It Shiny
Be honest, how many of you have slapped some mayo on in hopes of getting shiny, lustrous hair? (My hand’s raised.) Jason Low, hairstylist at The Serge Normant John Frieda Salon, says to think twice before reaching for the white condiment. “The acids within (mayonnaise)–vinegar, lemon juice–will certainly close your cuticle scales on the hair shafts and allow a smoother surface for light to reflect off of,” he says. “However…there are so many products out there that will do the job without resorting to turning your hair into a sandwich.” Try on new hairstyles in the Makeover Studio!
Myth 5: It’s Possible To Shrink The Size Of Your Pores
If you come across a product that claims to shrink your pores, beware. “Pore size is genetic, so we can’t do anything to physically shrink the actual size, but you can minimize the appearance of the pore by exfoliating skin at least 3 times a week,” says Zicu. “This will help get rid of all bacteria that is clogging pores from makeup.” Try on foundation in the Makeover Studio!
Myth 6: If You Pluck A Gray Hair, Two More Will Grow Back
Some people associate gray hair with having wisdom, and others consider it a pesky consequence of getting older. If you find yourself with a few stray grays, don’t worry that plucking them will make things worse says Gerard Touroul, hairstylist at The Serge Normant John Frieda Salon. “Two hairs won’t grow back in its place, but it also won’t stop your hair from getting gray as aging is genetic.” Try on new hairstyles in the Makeover Studio!
Myth 7: Toothpaste Will Help Get Rid Of Pimples
You’ve probably heard it from your mother, your sister, and your friends: When a large pimple pops up, just rub a dab of toothpaste to make it go away. Zicu says that while it may work for some people, it can sometimes cause more problems. “Most toothpastes contain mint, which can create a drying effect on the pimple,” she says. “If the pimple is broken, putting toothpaste on it can inflame it–causing irritation and worsening the appearance.” Try on foundation in the Makeover Studio!
Myth 8: Crossing Your Legs Will Give You Spider Veins
I’ll admit when I was younger I went through a phase where I wouldn’t cross my legs in fear of developing the dreaded spider veins. Turns out that didn’t help prevent the webby veins, it only made me look like a fool when I was wearing a skirt. “There is no medical research or evidence to confirm that crossing your legs can cause or contribute to spider (varicose) veins,” Zicu says. “The most common causes of spider veins are not exercising regularly, obesity and high blood pressure.” Check out Skincare At Every Age!
Myth 9: Chocolate And Other Unhealthy Foods Give You Acne
Chocolate, candy and greasy foods alway get a bad rep when it comes to the mystery behind what causes acne. But do they deserve it? According to the Mayo Clinic, they don’t. The production of too much oil and the build-up of bacteria are two of the main causes of acne, not sweets and desserts. So go ahead and have another piece of that Kit-Kat bar. Try on foundation in the Makeover Studio!
Myth 10: Chlorine Will Turn Your Hair Green
Turns out blondes don’t have more fun–at least when it comes to chlorine affecting hair color. Because their hair is already lighter, they’re more susceptible to experiencing a green tint. “The fact is that it’s not the chlorine that changes the hair color,” says Johnny Lavoy, L’Oréal Paris Consulting Hair Expert. “Chlorine can oxidize metals in the water that bind to the protein in the hair shaft, causing it to turn color. Oxidized copper is what turns the hair green.” Try on new hairstyles in the Makeover Studio!