We all want to look and feel like the best version of ourselves. And in our journey to find the best skincare practices, products, and procedures, we are exposed to many trends.
But are all trends good? Not at all! Some trends will set your skin health back and end up doing more damage than good. Do yourself a favor and avoid the following skincare trends. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Taking Advice from TikTok and Instagram
It may sound like a no-brainer, but it’s worth stating: Don’t take skincare advice from non-skincare professionals. We spoke with Dr. Babar Rao of Rao Dermatology, who emphatically warned against using social media as a reliable source for skincare advice or treatment. “Taking advice from TikTok and Instagram, or media in general, causes patients to come in with skin issues,” he says.
You would never take medical advice on health conditions from someone who isn’t a medical professional. Don’t do it when it comes to skin conditions!
At-Home Micro-needling
Anything involving needles should be done in a sterile environment by a professional. Need we repeat that?
Micro-needling is a cosmetic procedure that involves the repetitive puncturing of the skin with tiny needles to generate collagen, which promotes firmer, smoother skin. However, micro-needling at home can and does lead to scarring, per Dr. Rao. He says patients who try at-home micro-needling create bigger skin problems than they had to begin with.
DIY Skincare
In the same vein as at-home micro-needling, there are many do-it-yourself skincare formulas out there. Many people find a recipe online and think it’s a good idea since it uses natural ingredients. Wrong! DIY products such as scrubs or masks can end up causing rashes and redness.
We know that for many of you, it is important to use all-natural ingredients in your skincare routine. What we apply to our skin matters, but you simply never know what ingredients may cause a reaction. It is key to do some research before trying DIY skincare. Consult with a doctor or, at the very least, look into the ingredients you are using. You might find that they are allergens.
Over-Moisturizing
On occasion, we believe we can handle our skin woes ourselves. We think we can just slather on a recommended over-the-counter cream or oil, only to make things worse.
“[When] patients use products that are not suitable for their skin, they clog their pores, causing whiteheads, blackheads, and acne in general, or they cause dryness,” explains Dr. Rao. If you suffer from any skin redness or acne, the best plan of action is to seek out a dermatologist who will properly guide you.
Face Peels
Another big reason we can find ourselves in skincare predicaments is when we are trying to save money. Getting a chemical face peel at a salon or dermatologist’s office can cost hundreds of dollars, while an at-home chemical peel can cost less than $100.
Does that mean you should do a chemical peel at home? Absolutely not! At-home peels can cause hyper-pigmentation or other unwanted side effects. You’ll end up spending even more money paying a doctor to help heal your skin. And that is not even considering any physical pain you might cause yourself in the process.
The Verdict
Taking care of your skin is a must. And there are things you can do at home to care for it. “Three things we always recommend are applying sunblock, washing your face, and using a retinoid,” says Dr. Irfan Khan, a pathologist at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Remember to know your skin type and shop for creams, serums, and face washes that are suitable for you. But for more complicated skin treatments, seek out a professional.