Dermatologist assesses viral skincare fads and their real benefits

Post by : Saif Nasser

Social platforms are awash with DIY skincare methods, yet not every viral tip is harmless or effective. Dr Aparajita Lamba, founder of Iksana Wellness, reviews common online hacks and clarifies which ones can benefit skin and which pose risks.

One frequently shared practice is skin "slugging," in which a petrolatum-based product like Vaseline is applied before sleep. According to Dr Lamba, this can be a useful occlusive for very dry or compromised skin, especially in colder months, by sealing in moisture and supporting overnight repair. However, she cautions that those with oily or acne-prone complexions may experience clogged pores and breakouts from this approach.

Home remedies using lemon juice for brightening are popular, but Dr Lamba warns against them. Lemon is strongly acidic and can damage the skin barrier, producing burns, irritation, or peeling. She recommends clinically formulated vitamin C serums as a safer alternative for achieving brighter skin tones.

Icing the face to reduce puffiness has gained traction; briefly applying cold can stimulate circulation and lessen morning swelling, Dr Lamba notes. Still, excessive cold exposure may aggravate sensitive conditions such as rosacea or provoke irritation if overused.

Applying toothpaste to spots remains a widespread tip, but it is inappropriate for facial skin, Dr Lamba says. Toothpaste ingredients can cause chemical burns, extreme dryness, and post-inflammatory darkening. Targeted acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are preferable for spot management.

Some people attempt "sunscreen contouring" by leaving areas unprotected to simulate tan lines. Dr Lamba stresses that uneven application undermines UV defense and increases long-term skin damage; broad, consistent sunscreen coverage should never be sacrificed for cosmetic effects.

By contrast, the technique known as "retinol sandwiching"—alternating moisturizer and retinol layers to temper irritation—can be an effective way to introduce retinoids, she says. Users should avoid pairing retinol with strong acids or physical exfoliants within the same routine to reduce adverse reactions.

Dr Lamba's overall recommendation is to prioritise straightforward, evidence-based regimens rather than adopting every trending hack. Regular cleansing, appropriate moisturisation, reliable sun protection, and targeted medications deliver safer, more predictable outcomes than extreme or experimental tips.

Adhering to professional guidance helps people protect their skin from harm, improve long-term health, and achieve a sustainable, healthy appearance without relying on risky viral fads.