The Dangers of TikTok Skin Care Trends from 2024
TikTok skin care fads of 2024 that you should avoid at all costs
TikTok has become a hub for viral beauty and skin care trends, with millions of users sharing their DIY tips and hacks. While some advice may seem harmless, many popular trends can pose serious risks to your skin health. Our dermatologists warn that following unverified advice from social media can lead to infections, skin damage, and even life-threatening conditions.
1. Sunscreen Contouring
What It Is: Sunscreen contouring involves applying sunscreen only to certain areas of the face, such as the cheekbones and nose, to create a contouring effect after sun exposure. The goal is to let the sun tan the unprotected areas, giving the illusion of a more sculpted face without makeup. Check out a video of this dangerous trend here on TikTok.
Why It’s Dangerous: This trend leaves large portions of your face unprotected from harmful UV rays, significantly increasing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Dermatologists emphasize that sunscreen should be applied evenly across all exposed skin to ensure complete protection.
Expert Opinion: Dr. Katie Beleznay, a board-certified dermatologist, highlights that “sunscreen contouring not only fails to protect the skin adequately but also encourages harmful sun exposure, which is the leading cause of skin cancer”(The Kit).
2. DIY Mole and Skin Tag Removal
What It Is: Some TikTok users are attempting to remove moles and skin tags at home using tools like scissors, razors, or even unregulated topical creams. These DIY removals are often portrayed as quick, easy fixes without the need for professional intervention. For a look at this trend in action, see this TikTok video where users showcase their at-home methods (Note: Content may be graphic).
Why It’s Dangerous: Removing moles and skin tags at home can lead to severe complications such as infections, excessive bleeding, and scarring. More importantly, moles should always be evaluated by a professional to rule out skin cancer, as improper removal can mask signs of malignancy.
Expert Opinion: Dermatologists warn that cutting off or burning moles at home is extremely risky and should always be done by a medical professional who can properly assess and treat the skin safely.
3. Melanotan Nasal Sprays
What It Is: Melanotan nasal sprays are promoted as a quick way to achieve a tanned look. These sprays contain melanotan II, a hormone that stimulates melanin production in the skin, supposedly leading to a tan without sun exposure. However, this product is not approved by the FDA. Here’s a fellow Austrailian dermatologist explaining the dangers on TikTok: Link
Why It’s Dangerous: The active ingredient, melanotan II, has not been regulated for safety, and its use has been linked to increased risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Additionally, the sprays can cause side effects like nausea, changes in moles, and other skin abnormalities.
Expert Opinion: Dr. Annie Liu, a dermatologist, cautions that “using these sprays could increase the risk for the worst skin cancer called melanoma, making them extremely dangerous”(The Kit).
4. Using Food as Skincare
What It Is: From rubbing jalapeños on lips to make them plumper to using cat litter as a face scrub, TikTok is full of food-based DIY skincare hacks that promise quick results using items from your kitchen. Watch how people are using jalapeños for lip plumping here.
Why It’s Dangerous: Foods are not designed for topical use on the skin and can cause severe allergic reactions, burns, and long-term damage. The application of irritants like jalapeños can lead to dermatitis, burns, or dark spots that are difficult to treat.
Expert Opinion: Dr. Beleznay advises, “Using food on your skin, especially items that are irritants or unregulated, can cause more harm than good. Stick to well-formulated skincare products designed for your skin type”(The Kit).
5. Self-Injecting Fillers and Botox
What It Is: Self-injection kits are being sold online, encouraging users to inject fillers and Botox themselves to reduce wrinkles or plump lips. These videos often downplay the serious risks involved.
Why It’s Dangerous: Injecting fillers or Botox without medical training can cause infections, asymmetry, vascular occlusions, and even blindness if injected incorrectly. The risk of complications is high, and reversing botched injections is often impossible without professional help.
Expert Opinion: Dermatologists unanimously agree that these procedures should only be performed by licensed professionals. The risks associated with self-injections far outweigh any potential benefits.
Example on TikTok: See how users attempt DIY filler injections here.
“We do not recommend trying any of these at home cosmetic procedures at home.”
Trust the Professionals
While TikTok can be a fun platform to discover new trends, it’s essential to exercise caution, especially with anything related to skincare and medical treatments. Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist before trying new procedures, especially those that could harm your skin or health. Remember, professional care is an investment in your skin’s long-term health and safety.
More Expert Beauty Advice: For more insights into safe skincare practices, visit our website or follow trusted dermatologists on social media.
Important Note: The linked TikTok videos are examples of the trends discussed and should be viewed critically. We do not recommend trying any of these at home cosmetic procedures at home.