When it comes to beauty advice we know how hard it can be to tell fact from fiction. So, in this article Talent Management reviews a few popular beauty myths that have been causing confusion for our models and readers.

Chocolate gives you spots

Great news, chocolate in moderation should not give you spots! In fact, good quality, preferably organic, chocolate with a high cocoa content actually contains some beneficial ingredients, such as health boosting flavonoids, which act as antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect the body from free radicals, which have a negative effect on our health and in turn, our skin. Dark chocolate also helps to lower blood pressure and stimulates endorphin production, providing that ‘feel-good’ factor when eaten. The best way to enjoy the benefits of chocolate is to limit your intake to around 4 squares of organic dark chocolate a day and enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.

Plucking grey hairs leads to more grey hairs

This is simply untrue. Some of us will develop grey hairs earlier than others as a result of our genes. If you wish to hide grey hair the good news is that there are many natural looking dyes available with which to do so. We would recommend a visit to the hairdresser if you are concerned – they may even have some great ideas on how to flatter your face-shape and colouring with a ‘new you’ hairstyle.

Putting toothpaste on spots helps them go down

It is possible that toothpaste could help to dry out a spot due to ingredients such as zinc. However, toothpaste is not designed for use on the skin and could just as easily irritate or even burn it. If spots are getting you down try using a product designed specifically for the treatment of the skin, or talk to your doctor.

You get what you pay for

Not necessarily! Unfortunately you can’t always believe what a manufacturer claims regarding their product’s magical effects. In fact, some products could be cut out all together in favour of a more natural, and often more effective, alternative. For example you could use sea salt/sugar mixed with olive oil in place of an expensive body exfoliant, or simply buy a scrubby sponge and use it with your favourite shower gel.

Darker skin tones do not require a sunblock

Don’t be fooled! While darker skins are less likely to burn they are still vulnerable to UV rays, which penetrate the skin. The International Dermal Institute recommends a minimum of SPF15 for all skin types. If you find SPF products too heavy on your skin, try using mineral make-ups.

Crossing your legs causes varicose veins

The truth is that varicose veins are most often caused by a genetic predisposition but you can help to minimise them by staying fit and active.

Having your hair cut makes it grow faster

Your hair will grow at the same pace whether you have it cut regularly or not – but it can appear healthier with a regular trim due to this eliminating split ends.