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The Hidden Dangers Behind Viral Skin Treatment Trends on TikTok

The realm of social media has profoundly reshaped how individuals seek and consume information, and the beauty industry is no exception. TikTok, with its engaging short-form video format, has emerged as a dominant platform for discovering and sharing skincare advice. For many, it has become a primary source for learning about the latest skin treatment practices and products, offering seemingly accessible solutions to achieve desired complexions. However, the rapid and often unregulated nature of these trends raises significant concerns about their safety and efficacy. This report delves into the potential harms associated with popular skin treatment trends frequently discussed on TikTok, examining the scientific evidence, expert opinions, and psychological implications behind them. By critically analyzing these viral practices, the aim is to empower individuals to make informed choices about their skincare routines and prioritize the health of their skin over fleeting online fads.

Decoding the Trends: Popular Skin Treatment Practices on TikTok (2024-2025)

TikTok has become a hotbed for a wide array of skincare trends, ranging from specific techniques to ingredient-focused regimens and product hypes. Among the popular techniques is “slugging,” which involves applying a thick layer of an occlusive product, such as petrolatum jelly, as the final step in the nighttime skincare routine to “lock in” moisture. Another prominent trend is “skin cycling,” a structured routine that alternates between nights of exfoliation, retinoid use, and recovery focused on hydration. “Face taping,” involving the application of tape to the face overnight to minimize wrinkles, has also gained traction. Facial massage techniques like Gua Sha and face yoga continue to be popular for their purported benefits in toning facial muscles and improving circulation. The concept of the “morning shed” describes elaborate overnight skincare and self-care routines where multiple products and tools are applied before bed and then “shed” off in the morning.

Ingredient-focused trends include the use of snail mucin, praised for its hydrating and healing properties , and resveratrol, promoted for its antioxidant and anti-aging benefits. The use of beef tallow as a natural moisturizer has also seen a resurgence in popularity. In terms of product types, “neurocosmetics,” which claim to improve overall wellness by targeting the skin-brain connection, are gaining attention. Acne sprays, often containing hypochlorous acid for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, are also frequently discussed. Lip treatments, including masks and balms aimed at achieving fuller, hydrated lips, remain a consistent trend. LED light masks, marketed for various skin benefits through light therapy, have also become a popular product category promoted on the platform. Interestingly, there’s also a trend towards embracing “unsexy products,” highlighting the effectiveness of basic, affordable skincare staples like Vaseline, Eucerin, and CeraVe. Looking ahead to 2025, emerging trends suggest a shift towards skincare minimalism and a greater emphasis on maintaining skin barrier health. This potential shift could be a response to the increasing awareness of skin sensitivities and the potential for over-treating the skin with complex routines popularized in previous years.

Unveiling the Risks: Negative Side Effects and Long-Term Consequences of Trending Treatments

While many TikTok skincare trends promise remarkable results, a closer examination reveals potential negative side effects and long-term consequences. Slugging, for instance, while beneficial for intensely dry skin by preventing water loss , can trap oil, dirt, and bacteria, potentially leading to clogged pores and breakouts, especially for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin. It may also increase the risk of developing milia, small white bumps under the skin. Furthermore, slugging over active ingredients like retinol or exfoliating acids can enhance their penetration, potentially causing increased irritation.

Skin cycling, while generally considered a more balanced approach, can still lead to initial dryness and irritation as the skin adjusts to the active ingredients like exfoliants and retinoids. It can also increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, necessitating diligent sunscreen use. Face taping, often touted as a natural alternative to Botox, carries risks of skin irritation and allergic reactions to the adhesive used. The constant application and removal of tape can also potentially tear delicate skin and may not provide any long-term reduction in wrinkles. In fact, some experts suggest that exaggerated stretching of the skin could even increase skin laxity over time.

DIY skincare hacks, a common feature on TikTok, can be particularly risky. Using ingredients like lemon juice can disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance and increase photosensitivity, leading to sunburn and dark spots. Baking soda, another popular DIY ingredient, has a high pH that can irritate the skin and damage its protective barrier. Toothpaste, often recommended as a spot treatment for acne, can also be too harsh and cause irritation. Sunscreen contouring, a trend involving applying sunscreen only to certain areas of the face to create a tanned contour, is exceptionally dangerous as it leaves significant portions of the skin unprotected from harmful UV rays, dramatically increasing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Attempting DIY mole removal, another alarming trend, carries a high risk of infection, bleeding, scarring, and, most importantly, can mask signs of skin cancer. Similarly, the use of unregulated products like Melanotan nasal sprays to achieve a tan without sun exposure has been linked to an increased risk of melanoma. Even seemingly innocuous trends like applying high concentrations of glycolic acid to the underarms for lightening can lead to irritation, contact dermatitis, and potentially worsen hyperpigmentation. Over-exfoliating the skin, often encouraged by the pursuit of “glass skin,” can damage the skin’s protective barrier, resulting in redness, irritation, dryness, breakouts, and increased sensitivity. Finally, the “morning shed” trend, with its emphasis on layering numerous products, can overwhelm the skin, leading to irritation, breakouts, and potentially counteracting the benefits of individual products, especially for those with sensitive skin conditions. Harsh removal techniques associated with this trend can also cause unnecessary skin trauma.

Table 1: Popular TikTok Skincare Trends and Their Potential Harms

Trend Name Brief Description Potential Negative Side Effects/Long-Term Consequences Dermatologist Opinion Relevant Snippet IDs
Slugging Applying a thick occlusive product (e.g., Vaseline) as the last step. Clogged pores, breakouts, increased risk of milia, enhanced irritation from active ingredients. Cautioned Against for some Skin Cycling Rotating active ingredients (exfoliants, retinoids) with rest days. Initial dryness, irritation, increased photosensitivity. Generally Recommended

Face Taping Using tape overnight to reduce wrinkles. Skin irritation, allergic reactions, potential for tearing skin, lack of long-term effectiveness, possible increased skin laxity. Discouraged DIY Skincare Hacks Using household ingredients (e.g., lemon juice, baking soda) on skin. Irritation, burns, pH imbalance, long-term damage, increased photosensitivity, allergic reactions. Strongly Discouraged
Sunscreen Contouring Applying sunscreen only to certain areas for a contoured tan. Severe sunburn, premature aging, significantly increased risk of skin cancer. Strongly Discouraged DIY Mole Removal Attempting to remove moles at home using various methods. Infections, bleeding, scarring, masking potential skin cancer. Strongly Discouraged Melanotan Nasal Sprays Using unregulated nasal sprays to stimulate tanning. Increased risk of melanoma, nausea, changes in moles, other skin abnormalities. Strongly Discouraged
Over-Exfoliation Excessive use of exfoliants. Damaged skin barrier, redness, irritation, dryness, breakouts, increased sensitivity. Discouraged Morning Shed Extensive overnight routines with multiple products and tools. Overwhelmed skin, irritation, breakouts, counteracted product benefits, skin trauma from harsh removal. Cautioned Against

The Voice of Authority: Dermatologists and Skincare Professionals on TikTok’s Popular Advice

Dermatologists and skincare professionals often express concerns regarding the skincare advice circulating on TikTok. A primary issue is the lack of verification and expertise behind many of the recommendations. Many individuals sharing skincare tips on the platform are not medically trained and may promote practices based on anecdotal evidence rather than scientific understanding. This can lead to the spread of misinformation and potentially harmful practices.

Regarding specific trends, dermatologists generally advise caution with slugging, acknowledging its benefits for very dry skin but warning against it for those prone to acne due to its pore-clogging potential. They also recommend avoiding slugging over active ingredients to prevent increased irritation. In contrast, skin cycling is often viewed favorably by dermatologists as a structured way to incorporate active ingredients while minimizing irritation. They highlight its versatility and adaptability to different skin types. DIY skincare hacks are strongly discouraged by experts due to the high risk of irritation, allergic reactions, and potential harm from using ingredients not formulated for topical use on the skin. Face taping is generally considered a temporary fix with limited long-term benefits, and dermatologists recommend proven anti-aging treatments like retinoids and consistent sunscreen use instead. The “morning shed” trend raises concerns among dermatologists who warn against layering excessive products, especially for individuals with sensitive skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, and advocate for simpler nighttime routines. Experts also express apprehension about the unsupervised use of high-concentration active ingredients promoted on TikTok, as this can lead to misuse and adverse reactions. Finally, sunscreen contouring is universally condemned by dermatologists as a dangerous practice that significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. Many dermatologists report spending a significant amount of time debunking misinformation originating from TikTok and social media in general, highlighting the pervasive nature of these trends among their patients.

Fact-Checking the Feed: Examining Scientific Evidence Behind TikTok Claims

A critical evaluation of the scientific evidence behind popular TikTok skincare trends reveals a mixed landscape. For slugging, research does support the effectiveness of petrolatum and other occlusives in preventing transepidermal water loss and aiding in skin barrier repair. However, studies also indicate that the occlusive nature of these products can potentially lead to clogged pores in some individuals. Skin cycling aligns with dermatological principles of allowing the skin to recover from the use of active ingredients, and the benefits of retinoids and exfoliants in improving skin texture and tone are well-established in scientific literature. However, specific large-scale studies focusing solely on the “skin cycling” trend as defined on TikTok may be limited.

In contrast, many DIY skincare hacks lack scientific support and can even be detrimental. For example, while some natural ingredients may possess beneficial properties, their application in homemade concoctions often lacks proper formulation and can lead to irritation or allergic reactions. The use of lemon juice, for instance, while touted for brightening, can cause photosensitivity and irritation without offering significant benefits. Resveratrol, while possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory studies, may not deliver the dramatic anti-aging results claimed in some TikTok videos when applied topically, and further research is needed to substantiate these claims. The effectiveness of overnight collagen masks, another trend, in delivering significant and lasting improvements to the skin is also debated, as the large collagen molecules may not penetrate the skin effectively. It is crucial to recognize that anecdotal success stories shared on TikTok do not equate to scientific evidence, and relying on peer-reviewed research and expert consensus is essential for making informed skincare decisions.

Beyond the Surface: Analyzing the Psychological Impact of TikTok Beauty Standards

The skincare trends promoted on TikTok can have a significant psychological impact, particularly on younger users. The platform’s algorithm often curates content showcasing idealized and often unattainable appearances, fostering a culture of comparison and potentially leading to body image issues and lowered self-esteem. The pervasive use of filters and editing techniques on TikTok can further distort perceptions of beauty, creating unrealistic expectations for skin texture and appearance. This constant exposure to “perfect” skin can pressure individuals to strive for an unrealistic ideal, potentially leading to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. The intense focus on achieving flawless skin can even contribute to a phenomenon termed “dermorexia,” an excessive obsession with skincare routines that can become harmful. Teenagers and young adults, who are particularly susceptible to peer influence and social media trends, may adopt complex and potentially unnecessary skincare routines based on TikTok recommendations, sometimes using products not formulated for their age group. While TikTok can also be a platform for promoting body positivity and self-expression , the dominant beauty trends often reinforce narrow and unrealistic standards, contributing to a cycle of dissatisfaction and the pursuit of fleeting online ideals.

When Viral Goes Wrong: Real-Life Accounts of Adverse Reactions to TikTok Skincare

Numerous individuals have reported adverse reactions and negative outcomes from following skincare advice found on TikTok. These accounts serve as important reminders of the potential risks involved. Stories of skin irritation, redness, inflammation, and breakouts after trying products or techniques recommended on the platform are common. More concerning are reports of infections and scarring resulting from DIY procedures promoted on TikTok, such as at-home mole removal attempts or “freckle tattoos” using sewing needles and ink. Some individuals have experienced worsened skin conditions due to the misuse of potent active ingredients like glycolic acid based on viral trends. One particularly alarming case involved an Australian reality TV star who suffered a facial infection and temporary vision loss after attempting a DIY freckle hack seen on TikTok. Another instance involved a woman who burned a patch of skin on her cheek after trying an at-home chemical peel she learned about on the platform. The trend of teenagers using anti-aging skincare products marketed towards adults has also led to reports of skin damage and irritation. While these are anecdotal accounts, they underscore the importance of exercising caution and consulting with professionals before trying skincare trends encountered online.

The Expert-Approved Guide: Safe and Effective Skincare Practices for Healthy Skin

Dermatological associations and reputable sources consistently recommend a foundation of safe and effective skincare practices for maintaining healthy skin. This typically involves a simple core routine consisting of a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer suitable for one’s skin type, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, applied daily. Consistent sun protection is paramount for preventing skin cancer and premature aging. Physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide are often recommended. Retinoids, a derivative of Vitamin A, are beneficial for addressing signs of aging and acne but should be introduced gradually, typically at night. The “retinoid sandwich” technique, applying moisturizer before and after retinoid application, can help reduce initial irritation. Exfoliation, to remove dead skin cells, is beneficial but should be approached with caution, especially for sensitive skin. Gentle chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs are generally preferred over harsh physical scrubs and should be used in moderation, typically one to two times per week, depending on skin type and tolerance. Moisturizing daily is crucial for maintaining the skin’s protective barrier, particularly after cleansing and showering. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic moisturizers are generally recommended. Incorporating serums with antioxidants like Vitamin C can provide additional protection against environmental damage. Experts generally advocate for a minimalist skincare approach, emphasizing the use of quality products with proven ingredients over elaborate, multi-step routines. Most importantly, consulting a board-certified dermatologist for personalized advice tailored to individual skin types and concerns is strongly recommended.

The Influence of Misinformation: Navigating Skincare Advice in the Age of Social Media

The rise of social media influencers has significantly impacted how skincare information is disseminated, but it has also created an environment where misinformation can spread rapidly. Many influencers lack formal training in dermatology or cosmetic chemistry, yet they often provide skincare advice without proper verification. Furthermore, influencers may promote products through sponsored content without always clearly disclosing their partnerships, leading to potentially biased recommendations. Viral videos often feature exaggerated claims and unrealistic before-and-after transformations, setting unattainable expectations for consumers. Some influencers engage in “science-washing,” using scientific-sounding language or misinterpreting research to lend credibility to their claims. A particularly concerning trend is the anti-sunscreen movement gaining traction on TikTok, where influencers falsely claim that sunscreen is harmful. Despite these risks, TikTok has a significant influence on consumer purchasing behavior, with many individuals buying skincare products solely based on influencer recommendations. Regulatory bodies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) have established guidelines for influencer marketing, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accurate product endorsements. To navigate the often-misleading landscape of online skincare advice, consumers should critically evaluate the source of information, be skeptical of miracle claims, seek advice from multiple reputable sources, and prioritize consulting a board-certified dermatologist for personalized guidance.

Conclusion: Empowering Informed Choices in the World of Online Skincare

The allure of quick and easy skincare solutions presented on TikTok can be compelling, but it is crucial to recognize the potential dangers of blindly following viral trends. Many popular practices lack scientific backing, are not suitable for all skin types, and can even lead to adverse reactions and long-term skin damage. The opinions of dermatologists and scientific evidence often diverge significantly from the advice shared by social media influencers, highlighting the importance of seeking guidance from qualified professionals. The psychological impact of these trends, with their emphasis on unrealistic beauty standards, can also be detrimental to self-esteem and body image, particularly among younger individuals. By prioritizing evidence-based skincare practices recommended by dermatological associations and approaching online advice with a critical eye, individuals can make informed choices that prioritize the health and well-being of their skin over fleeting online fads. Ultimately, achieving healthy skin is a journey that requires consistency, patience, and personalized care, rather than a destination reached through viral TikTok hacks.
Sources used in the report