Dermatologists Reveal 8 TikTok Skin Trends They’d Never Endorse

Hyaluronic Acid Contouring

In this trend, hyaluronic acid filler is injected into specific areas of the face to create a more defined appearance. However, this can lead to granulomas, which are small inflammatory bumps under the skin.

Gua Sha Scraping

Gua sha is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves scraping the skin with a tool to promote blood flow. However, using too much pressure or scraping too often can damage the skin and cause bruising.

DIY Pore Extraction

Using comedone extractors or other tools to extract pores can be tempting, but it can lead to scarring, infection, and inflammation.

Toothpaste as a Spot Treatment

Toothpaste is not formulated for use on the skin and can cause irritation, dryness, and peeling. The ingredients in toothpaste can also bleach the skin, leading to hyperpigmentation.

Skin Cycling

Skin cycling involves rotating different skincare products on different nights of the week, with one night dedicated to exfoliation. However, exfoliating too often can damage the skin's natural lipid barrier, leading to dryness and sensitivity.

Slugging

Slugging involves applying a thick layer of petroleum jelly to the face overnight as a moisturizer. While it can be effective for dry skin, it can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

DIY Sheet Masks

Homemade sheet masks may seem harmless, but using the wrong ingredients can lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions. It's always best to use commercially available sheet masks that are formulated for your skin type.

Facial Steaming

Facial steaming is often promoted for its ability to open pores and remove impurities. However, steaming can damage the skin's natural lipid barrier, leading to dryness and inflammation.