SKIN EXPERT CALLS OUT DANGEROUS VIRAL SKINCARE TRENDS

Elisa Osmo, Advanced Dermal Therapist and founder of Glow Medispa

Social media may be brimming with beauty advice, but not all of it belongs in your bathroom.

From DIY acid peels to the bizarre revival of “caveman skincare,” TikTok’s skincare trends are getting bolder — and riskier.

While influencers and content creators spruik “miracle” hacks for glowing skin, many of these viral tips are causing real-life damage. And skin professionals are sounding the alarm.

Elisa Osmo, Advanced Dermal Therapist and founder of Glow Medispa, says she’s treated clients whose skin has been severely compromised after following advice they picked up on social media.

“Whether it’s ‘caveman skincare,’ slugging on breakout-prone skin, or at-home microneedling with questionably clean tools,” she says, “what works for one person on social media could seriously compromise someone else’s skin barrier or even lead to permanent damage.”

Osmo says the problem isn’t just misinformation — it’s that these hacks often ignore basic skin science in favour of clickbait.

“Social media isn’t a skincare professional. It can be a valuable tool for spreading awareness. Still, many of these trends are completely unregulated, and they don’t take into account individual skin types, concerns, or underlying conditions,” she explains.

Below, Osmo breaks down the worst offenders — and why they’re more harmful than helpful.

CAVEMAN SKINCARE

Ditching all products — including cleansers — and allowing the skin to “reset” has been touted as the natural way to achieve balance.

But Osmo warns this can lead to serious hygiene issues.“Often promoted as a way to ‘reset’ the skin, this trend can cause long-term damage due to poor hygiene, buildup of bacteria, and skin conditions like dermatitis neglecta,” she says.

DIY CHEMICAL PEELS 

Unregulated acids, often purchased online, are being used at home in the hopes of mimicking professional results, but without proper knowledge or training, the consequences can be severe.

“Unregulated acids and incorrect usage can seriously compromise the skin barrier, causing burns, sensitivity, and even permanent damage,” Osmo warns.

SLUGGING FOR ALL SKIN TYPES

Applying a thick layer of petroleum jelly or occlusive balm to seal in moisture — aka slugging — may work for some, but Osmo says it’s not one-size-fits-all.“While occlusives like petroleum jelly can help lock in moisture, they can also trap bacteria and oil, especially in breakout-prone skin.”

KITCHEN SINK ROUTINES

Another popular trend is using multiple actives at once — think retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHAs, and more — under the belief that more equals better.

“Overdoing it with ingredients like retinol, AHAs, and vitamin C can lead to irritation, inflammation, and a weakened skin barrier,” she explains.

AT-HOME MICRONEEDLING

It’s easy to see the appeal of skin-needling tools that promise collagen stimulation and smoother skin, but using them at home, especially without proper hygiene, can have dire consequences.

“This trend is rising on TikTok, but without proper technique and sterilisation, it dramatically increases the risk of infection and scarring.”

SKIN CYCLING WITHOUT GUIDANCE

Skin cycling — alternating actives like retinol, exfoliants, and hydrators on a set schedule — has gained popularity thanks to social media dermatologists.

But without personalisation, Osmo says it can be risky.“Rotating actives can be beneficial, but blindly following TikTok routines without personalisation may do more harm than good, especially for sensitive or compromised skin.”

SKIPPING SPF IN WINTER OR INDOORS

Osmo says one of the most pervasive myths is that sunscreen isn’t needed year-round.

“The belief that SPF isn’t necessary outside of summer is a myth. UV damage is cumulative and contributes to premature ageing year-round.”

FOOD AS SKINCARE

From coffee scrubs to lemon juice masks, the use of pantry ingredients in DIY skincare continues to trend.

But just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s safe.“

These can disrupt pH balance, cause microtears and lead to irritation, especially for those with reactive skin,” Osmo says.

While the lure of a quick fix is tempting, Osmo urges people to step away from unverified hacks and seek proper advice from trained professionals.

“Skincare isn’t meant to be entertainment,” she says. “It’s healthcare. If you wouldn’t let someone on TikTok remove your tonsils, don’t let them guide your chemical peel either.”