The Skin Nerd: The Newest TikTok Beauty Trends — and the Products Worth Checking Out
TikTok is a treasure trove of beauty trends, from the bizarre to the brilliant.
In the past few months, we've seen everything from slugging (applying a thick layer of Vaseline to your face before bed) to gua sha (a facial massage technique using a jade or rose quartz tool) go viral on the platform.
But which of these trends are actually worth trying? We asked our resident skin nerd, Dr. Alexis Stephens, to weigh in on the latest TikTok beauty trends and give us her verdict on which ones are worth checking out.
1. Slugging
Slugging is a skincare trend that involves applying a thick layer of petroleum jelly to your face before bed. The theory is that the jelly will create a barrier on your skin, preventing moisture from escaping and helping to hydrate your skin.
Dr. Stephens says that slugging can be a good way to hydrate dry skin, but she warns that it's not for everyone.
"Slugging can be too heavy for some people, and it can lead to breakouts," she says. "If you have oily or acne-prone skin, I would avoid this trend."
2. Gua sha
Gua sha is a facial massage technique that uses a jade or rose quartz tool to massage the face. The theory is that gua sha can help to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and lift and tone the skin.
Dr. Stephens says that gua sha can be a good way to relax and de-puff your face, but she warns that it's important to use a light touch.
"If you press too hard, you can damage your skin," she says. "I recommend using a gua sha tool only once or twice a week, and using a light touch."
3. Microneedling
Microneedling is a skincare trend that involves using a dermaroller or microneedling pen to create tiny punctures in the skin. The theory is that these punctures will stimulate collagen production, which can help to improve the appearance of wrinkles, scars, and stretch marks.
Dr. Stephens says that microneedling can be a good way to improve the appearance of your skin, but she warns that it's important to have it done by a professional.
"Microneedling can be dangerous if it's not done properly," she says. "I recommend having it done by a dermatologist or other qualified professional."
4. LED light therapy
LED light therapy is a skincare trend that involves using a device that emits LED lights to treat the skin. The theory is that different colors of light can help to improve the appearance of different skin concerns, such as acne, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
Dr. Stephens says that LED light therapy can be a good way to improve the appearance of your skin, but she warns that it's important to use a device that has been approved by the FDA.
"There are a lot of LED light therapy devices on the market, and not all of them are created equal," she says. "I recommend doing your research and choosing a device that has been approved by the FDA."
5. CBD skincare
CBD skincare is a skincare trend that involves using products that contain cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in cannabis. The theory is that CBD can help to reduce inflammation, soothe the skin, and improve the appearance of wrinkles.
Dr. Stephens says that CBD skincare may be beneficial for some people, but she warns that more research is needed.
"There are some promising studies that suggest that CBD may be beneficial for the skin," she says. "However, more research is needed to confirm these findings."
