Your Dermatology Guide: Science-Backed Skin Advice

Let's bust some common skincare myths. No, Botox is not just for old people, and you don't need a ten-step routine for good skin. Facts over fiction, always.

As a dermatologist, there are five things I would never do, starting with using medical-grade chemical peels at home. These require professional supervision to avoid burns and pigmentation.

I would never use at-home dermarollers with needles over 0.3mm. Improper use can cause micro-tears, infection, and scarring. This is best left to professionals.

Using hot peppers to plump lips is a definite no. The irritation and swelling can cause long-term damage to the delicate lip tissue.

I would never shop for cheap, bargain skin treatments. Low-quality ingredients and unsafe techniques increase the risk of skin damage and adverse reactions.

Here are four products I would never use as a dermatologist: petroleum jelly, walnut scrubs, bleaching creams, and pimple patches. I explain why each one is on my no-list.

Why do you have open pores? I explain the causes for oily, dry, and mature skin types and suggest the right ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, or retinol to help.

Those little hangy things on your neck are likely skin tags, not warts. I explain that they are often linked to insulin resistance and discuss removal options and preventive measures.

Those tiny white bumps under your skin are called milia, not whiteheads. I explain what they are and how we remove them effectively in the clinic using milia needling.