Skincare Truths: What You Should and Shouldn't Do Now
Hey everyone! If you caught our Facially Conscious podcast episode, Skincare Truths: What You Should and Shouldn't Do Now, with Dr. Vicki Rapaport and Julie Falls, you know we discussed the hot skincare topics that I'm excited to break down further for you today. Let's talk about what's trending, what works, and what you should avoid in your skincare routine.
The Castor Oil Craze: Separating Fact from Fiction
Castor oil is having another moment in the spotlight, which isn't surprising since this ingredient cycles in and out of popularity regularly. Dating back to ancient Egypt, castor oil has been used for everything from digestive issues to beauty treatments. But what's the real deal with this thick, sticky oil?
While some TikTok influencers claim it grows lashes and brows, Dr. Vicki and I remain skeptical about these benefits. There simply aren't scientific studies backing up the hair growth claims. What we do know is that castor oil is extremely thick and can make lashes and brows appear fuller temporarily by coating them.
Castor oil can be beneficial as an intense moisturizer in body skin care, especially for extremely dry skin. Dr. Vicki mentioned adding a few drops to body cream to seal in moisture, which can be beneficial, especially in winter. Still, I recommend face skin care products tested in the lab for facial skin, like our NIGHT NIGHT CREAM, which provides similar advantages but with more skin-healthy benefits, such as cell nourishment.
One necessary caution: be extremely careful about using castor oil near your eyes. Julie discovered that it can cause irritation, swelling, and eye discomfort. Eye doctors have expressed concern about this trend, and I've seen clients with similar reactions.
Expiration Dates Matter!
This is a topic I'm passionate about: please, please trust expiration dates on your skincare products! At the beginning of each year, I encourage all my clients to do a skincare audit and toss anything expired.
I recently had a client who'd been using a product for four years (!) and wondered if it was still good. The answer is a resounding no—most skincare products, even with preservatives, last about two years unopened. Once opened, that timeline shortens considerably as air enters the container.
Using expired products isn't just ineffective—it can be harmful. The preservatives break down, allowing bacteria to grow, and ingredients can oxidize and cause inflammation. As I always say, inflammation is the biggest ager of our skin!
Our 24/7 DEFENSE contains powerful antioxidants like resveratrol and astaxanthin that help fight inflammation, but even these ingredients have a shelf life. When you invest in quality skincare, make sure you're getting the full benefits by using products while they're fresh.
The Marketing Psychology Targeting Our Children
One trend that deeply concerns me is the aggressive marketing of multi-step skincare routines to children as young as 10. As a skincare professional and a mother of a 13-year-old, I've witnessed firsthand how these companies target kids with cute packaging, fruity scents, and influencer endorsements.
The truth is that children with normal skin don't need elaborate skincare routines. Their cell turnover is perfect, their natural moisture barriers are intact, and their skin is doing precisely what it should be doing. If your child is interested in skincare, redirect that interest toward sun protection. It's also a great teaching tool about the one skincare step that genuinely matters at any age.
A gentle approach is best for teens, mainly when acne develops. Our CLEAR AWAY CLEANSER helps prevent breakouts without stripping the skin, making it appropriate for teenage skin that's just beginning to produce more oil.
Final Thoughts
The skincare world is constantly evolving, with trends coming and going faster than ever, thanks to social media. My advice? Be skeptical of miracle claims, respect expiration dates, and focus on the fundamentals: cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection.
Targeted treatments can make a difference for those dealing with specific skin concerns—but you don't need seven steps to have beautiful skin. Quality ingredients in well-formulated products will always outperform the latest viral sensation.
What skincare trends have you been curious about lately? Email me at facialbungalow@gmail.com, and I'll address more of your questions in future posts!
Until next time!