Since TikTok took the social media world by storm, it has trends blowing up overnight. The beauty world has products being cleared from the shelves at your local Target and sold out online, but are these popular skincare trends actually good for you?
Viral skincare trends reach the masses. Some of them are great, but others may be doing more harm than good. Taking care of your skin is one of the most important things you can do, so understanding which trends to embrace and which ones to avoid will allow you to achieve healthy skin.
Skincare Trends to Follow
- Micellar Cleansing Water
Micellar cleansing water is most commonly seen as being used as a makeup remover on TikTok. This cleansing water does not contain harsh ingredients like alcohol. Instead, it is made up of micelles suspended in soft water and its purpose is to cleanse and tone your skin. Micellar water has numerous uses as it can be used as a facial wash and moisturizer in addition to removing makeup. The benefits of micellar water outweigh the downsides. Micellar water is an effective gentle and hydrating product that removes dirt and oil and helps to keep your skin clear. It is suggested to research your skin type before using a product as some may work better with dry, sensitive, or oily skin.
- Gua Sha
Traditional Chinese medicine methods, like Gua Sha, are not immune to turning into a viral trend. Gua Sha massage originated in Chinese culture and has been around for centuries. This versatile technique can be used to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow and relieve muscle pain and soreness. Gua Sha’s popularity on TikTok comes from being used by the beauty industry, however, it can easily be done from home with a variety of Gua Sha tools. Skinfluencers show how to properly do Gua Sha facial massage so you can see an improvement in wrinkles, elasticity, and redness.
- Double Cleansing
Double cleansing is as simple as it sounds. Cleansing your face twice is a method that can help remove the stubborn dirt and clean clogged pores that stay on the skin after washing your face once. The first cleanse will help to remove excess oils, dirt, and makeup to clean your skin. When you use a second cleanser you will need to address your specific skin type. Using the proper cleanser that addresses your specific skincare concerns will give you optimal results. The second wash will remove any leftover products and buildup that the first cleanser might have missed. This double cleansing method will not only leave your skin feeling fresh, as cleaning it will help you to avoid over-washing and drying out your skin too.
Skincare Trends to Avoid
- Overly Complicated Skincare Routine
A good skincare routine includes products tailored to your skin type that deliver the results you want. Overly complicated skincare routines often lead to your skin being congested and stressed, which eventually will cause more problems to pop up, some that you’ve never had to deal with before. Although some TikToks make it seem like you need 10 plus products in your skincare routine, the reality is that you do not. Instead of causing irritated skin reactions from using too many products, investing in personalized prescription skincare is your best option. Personalized skincare is tailored to your skin type and will deliver the best results based on your skin’s needs.
- Sunscreen Contouring
Sunscreen contouring is definitely one viral trend to avoid. This method involves tanning certain parts of your face in hopes of achieving a natural contour. While the purpose of sunscreen is to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun, this method does almost the exact opposite. Not properly distributing sunscreen evenly on your skin will increase the risk to the exposed areas from damaging UV rays, leading to possible skin cancer and premature aging. The proper way to apply sunscreen to the face is by taking a quarter-sized amount and applying it generously, making sure you do not miss any areas. Reapplying sunscreen every two hours will be your safest bet. Although everyone loves a good contour, sunscreen contouring is not the best option. The easiest way to get a beautiful contour look is from makeup.
- DIY Microblading
DIY microblading is officially trending but it’s actually one of the most dangerous beauty trends to do at home. Microblading uses a small tool with tiny needles that pierce the skin. The needles draw delicate, small, faux hair stokes while simultaneously depositing pigment underneath the skin. Therefore, if this technique is not done by a professional there is a greater chance of the skin getting damaged. Additionally, if the environment and tools used for DIY microblading are not sterile or properly cleaned there is an increased risk of infection due to the tiny cuts the needles are making into your skin. In order for microblading to be successful, the skin must be prepped appropriately. When the skin is not prepared properly microblading will cause damage. With all the risks involved in DIY microblading, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
Final Thoughts
Even though social media can make beauty trends look safe, that’s definitely not the case with all of them. Completing research on the different trends, finding their purpose, and knowing your skin type will allow you to use your best judgment when it comes to trying anything new. Your skin will thank you later when you save it from damaging skincare trends.
