It’s all fun and games when you jump on a social media skincare trend. However, dermatologists warn against some of these viral beauty routines due to the damage they can cause to your health.
A new study by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has revealed that over 70% of young adults have tried at least one of TikTok-inspired viral beauty trends in the past year. The downside is that people often do this without seeking professional advice. While these viral beauty trends may seem exciting and innovative, dermatologists warn that many are doing more harm than good.
Dermatologists at Aventus Clinic shared their insights on the most damaging beauty trends currently sweeping across social media, along with recommendations.
Damaging viral beauty trends to avoid
Sunscreen contouring: A dangerous shortcut
This trend encourages applying sunscreen only to certain areas of the face to create “contoured” tan lines. Dr Suhail Alam of Aventus Clinic says, “The idea of selectively exposing parts of your face to UV radiation is incredibly dangerous. Sun damage builds up invisibly over time and significantly increases your risk of skin cancer. No tan is worth that risk, and once the damage is done, it’s very difficult to reverse.”
DIY microneedling: High risk, low reward
While professional microneedling offers controlled skin rejuvenation, DIY kits can be risky. Aventus Clinic dermatologists emphasise that microneedling is a delicate cosmetic procedure that only professionals should perform in a sterile environment with the right knowledge and equipment. “At-home devices often lack this precision and can cause infections, scarring, and pigmentation issues, especially on darker skin tones.”
Face taping/wrapping: A misleading fix
Face taping involves placing tape on areas like the forehead or cheeks to prevent wrinkles overnight. While it may appear effective and smooth the skin temporarily, it does nothing to halt the ageing process. “In fact, repeated use can stretch the skin, damage elasticity, and speed up sagging over time,” Aventus Clinic dermatologists warn.
DIY acid peels: Chemical chaos at home
Aggressive acid peels are being attempted at home using high-strength acids not intended for unsupervised use. Dermatologists say this is one of the most dangerous trends. “Professional peels are tailored to your skin’s needs. Using strong acids without guidance can lead to chemical burns, hyperpigmentation, and long-term scarring,” dermatologists warn.
Read also: When your skincare routine turns into a health hazard
Taking hydration too far with skin flooding
We all preach hydration, but experts say while layering five or more moisturising products to “flood” the skin sounds indulgent, it can backfire. “Overloading the skin can trap dirt, clog pores, and cause irritation,” Aventus Clinic dermatologists warn. “More is not always better. Hydration should be targeted, balanced, and tailored to your specific skin concerns.”
Try these expert-approved skincare basics instead
Rather than chasing the latest viral beauty trends, dermatologists urge consumers to return to the fundamentals of good skincare. Here are the essential, expert-recommended practices for healthy, radiant skin:
Cleanse gently
Use a pH-balanced, non-stripping cleanser suited to your skin type. Do this once in the morning, and again at night.
Moisturise daily
Hydration strengthens the skin barrier. Use lightweight moisturising gels for oily skin, or richer creams for dry skin.
Never skip sunscreen
Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is the best defence against ageing and skin cancer.
Use targeted treatments cautiously
Introduce actives (like retinoids, vitamin C, or niacinamide) one at a time, with a patch test. Start slowly and build consistency.
Prioritise night-time recovery
Night is the best time for repair-focused skincare because these products work better while you rest. Cleanse, apply treatment, and lock in moisture.
Less is more
Minimalism sometimes achieves maximal results. Avoid product overload. Stick to a simple, consistent routine to maintain healthy skin. “What looks like innovation online is often just poor science in a trendy wrapper,” Dr Suhail Alam says. “Sustainable beauty comes from understanding your skin, protecting it from damage, and respecting its natural rhythm, not from chasing viral trends.”
While viral beauty trends can be fun to explore, your skin deserves better than untested hacks. Healthy, glowing skin doesn’t come from gimmicks, but from consistency, minimalism, and evidence-based practices. If in doubt, consult a professional rather than risking long-term damage for social media virality. The goal is to achieve healthy, glowing skin with healthy, sustainable habits.
