Stop Following These Dangerous Skincare Myths

This is what can happen when you trust a *medical store bhaiya* or Google for skincare advice. These images show Topical Steroid Damaged Face, or TSDF, a severe condition I treat frequently caused by misusing fairness or steroid creams. Your skin is not an experiment; it needs a qualified dermatologist.

Here I am with a list of five products that I, as a dermatologist, will never recommend you use. These items are commonly available but can cause more harm than good for your skin.

The first product to avoid is any kind of fairness cream. These often contain harsh chemicals or hidden steroids that promise quick results but can lead to long-term skin damage, redness, and acne.

The second type of product to avoid is combination creams like Castor-NF. These often contain potent steroids mixed with antifungal and antibacterial agents, which should never be used without a doctor's prescription for a specific condition.

Third on my list to avoid are glutathione or so-called brightening soaps. These products make unrealistic claims and cannot change your skin tone; at best, they are ineffective, and at worst, they can cause irritation.

The fifth item to throw away is your loofah. Both plastic and natural loofahs are abrasive, can damage your skin barrier, and often harbor bacteria, leading to body acne and irritation.

Thinking about popping that pimple? Please don't. Squeezing a pimple can push bacteria deeper into your skin, leading to more severe acne, inflammation, and permanent scars that are difficult to treat. I explain the three main reasons why you should keep your hands off your face.

As a dermatologist, I can always tell when a patient has been picking at their acne, even if they say they haven't. The signs, like excoriations and scabs, are clear. Remember, acne heals, but the scars from picking can be permanent.

If you have dark or dull lips, your habits might be the cause, not your genetics. I explain five common habits that contribute to lip pigmentation, including lip licking, drinking hot beverages, and using certain types of lipsticks and toothpastes.