TikTok has become a powerhouse of beauty and skincare trends, with millions of users sharing tips, tricks, and DIY hacks that promise to transform your skincare routine. Whether it’s a viral new product or a quirky skincare technique, these trends spread like wildfire—capturing the attention of beauty enthusiasts everywhere. But with so many skincare hacks circulating, how can you tell which ones work and which ones are just fleeting fads?
Let’s dive into some of the most viral TikTok skincare trends, analyze their effectiveness, and help you figure out which ones are worth trying and which ones are best left behind.
The Rise of Viral TikTok Skincare Trends
TikTok has revolutionized how beauty trends are discovered and shared. With its algorithm-driven format, videos featuring skincare routines or “before and after” transformations can go viral overnight. Influencers, dermatologists, and skincare enthusiasts alike are constantly posting content about the latest must-try skincare solutions, often with impressive results.
But while these trends have gained a massive following, it’s important to remember that not everything shared on TikTok is backed by science or expert opinion. So, how do you differentiate between a legitimate skincare trend and a harmful practice?
Trend #1: The Ice Roller for Puffy Eyes
One of the most popular skincare trends on TikTok involves using an ice roller to reduce puffiness around the eyes. The idea is simple: You roll a chilled tool under your eyes, and the cold helps tighten the skin and reduce swelling.
Does It Work?
Yes, ice rolling can be effective for temporary relief from puffiness. Cold therapy has been shown to constrict blood vessels, which helps reduce inflammation and fluid buildup under the eyes. However, the results are temporary, and while it might offer a refreshing sensation, it’s not a long-term solution for persistent under-eye puffiness.
Pro Tip: If you suffer from chronic puffiness, consider looking into other remedies, such as a targeted under-eye cream with ingredients like caffeine or peptides, which can help over time.
Trend #2: The “Slugging” Method with Petroleum Jelly
Slugging has recently made waves on TikTok, where users apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly to their face as the final step in their night time skincare routine. The idea behind this trend is that the heavy layer of petroleum jelly acts as a barrier, trapping moisture and preventing dehydration throughout the night.
Does It Work?
Slugging can be effective for individuals with dry skin. The occlusive nature of petroleum jelly helps lock in moisture and prevents water loss, making it ideal for people with compromised skin barriers or those needing extra hydration. However, it’s not suitable for everyone.
For those with oily or acne-prone skin, slugging could potentially clog pores and lead to breakouts. Always test products on a small patch of skin before going full-throttle with slugging.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a less greasy alternative, try a hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturizer to help lock in moisture without the risk of acne.
Trend #3: Using Toothpaste for Acne
One of the more controversial viral TikTok skincare trends is the use of toothpaste to treat acne. Many TikTok users swear by this trick, claiming that applying a small amount of toothpaste to pimples can help dry them out and reduce inflammation.
Does It Work?
Dermatologists generally do not recommend using toothpaste on acne. While toothpaste contains ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, which may have antibacterial properties, it can also contain harsh chemicals that may irritate your skin. Toothpaste is formulated for teeth, not your skin, and applying it to acne could result in redness, irritation, or even burns.
Pro Tip: Instead of toothpaste, use an acne treatment with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which are specifically to treat acne safely and effectively.
Trend #4: The “Guasha” Facial Massage
The guasha facial massage has gained popularity on TikTok as a way to sculpt and tone the face. Using a flat stone tool, users gently scrape the skin to stimulate circulation and promote lymphatic drainage. The idea is that this technique helps reduce puffiness, contour the face, and boost skin health.
Does It Work?
Yes, guasha can be beneficial when used correctly. Lymphatic drainage massage, including with a guasha tool, can help reduce puffiness and promote circulation. Regular use may lead to a more sculpted appearance and improved skin texture. However, guasha won’t lead to drastic changes in face shape.
Pro Tip: Make sure to use a guasha tool with proper technique and always apply facial oil or serum to avoid tugging on the skin. For the best results, combine guasha with a consistent skincare routine.
Trend #5: Skincare Fridges
Skincare fridges are mini refrigerators that stores skincare products like face masks, serums, and moisturizers. The trend claims that keeping your products chilled enhances their effectiveness, especially in reducing inflammation and providing a cooling effect during application.
Does It Work?
While there’s no harm in storing skincare products in a cool environment, the idea that a skincare fridge will drastically enhance its effectiveness is mostly a marketing gimmick. Some products, like gel-based masks or soothing eye creams, may feel more refreshing when chilled, but the fridge doesn’t inherently improve the products’ active ingredients or performance.
Pro Tip: If you’re drawn to the idea of a skincare fridge, it’s fine to store certain products like sheet masks or aloe vera gel in a cool spot. However, you can also store proud
cts in your regular fridge, and it doesn’t require buying an expensive skincare-specific fridge.
Do Viral Skincare Trends Work?
Viral TikTok skincare trends can offer short-term benefits, but not all have grounding in science or support from dermatologists. Some trends, like the ice roller, guasha, and slugging, can be effective for certain skin types, but others—such as toothpaste for acne—can be harmful and ineffective.
Before jumping on the latest skincare trend, always do your research and consider how each trend may affect your unique skin needs. And, if you’re ever unsure, consult with a dermatologist to get the best skincare advice.