Dermatovenerologist Iveta Gylienė says in the „Eurovaistinė“ press release that some popular methods contain rational principles, but blindly copying them can not only irritate the skin but also delay addressing the real problem. Or even worse – cause real damage, the press release states.
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Specialists often see people who have already “tried everything”
Looking for a quick solution is natural – especially when skin or appearance changes become a daily concern. According to the National Well-being Index (NSI) study initiated by „Eurovaistinė“, women report various beauty and well-being problems much more often than men: 32.2% of women report dry skin (men – 14.9%), 30.8% hair loss (men – 10.1%), 19.3% brittle nails (men – 4.7%), 16.3% dark under-eye circles (men – 9.1%).
I. Gylienė notes that people who say they have tried “everything” often come to specialists. “We even joke that the doctor is the last stop.
First, the internet offers a helping hand, then friends or relatives share their experiences, and if that doesn’t help – a fellow patient waiting in line at the doctor’s office might still give additional advice,” says the dermatovenerologist.
Such advice does not necessarily directly worsen the skin condition, but the recommended products may be completely ineffective for the specific problem, or the person may misinterpret their symptoms and self-treat not the real cause.
“But the most dangerous are some tips spreading on social networks that can not only fail but also cause real damage to skin health. Especially when shared by people without the necessary expertise,” says the specialist and discusses several popular trends.
Dermatovenerologist’s assessment of 5 popular „TikTok“ trends
„Caveman method“ – its followers give up not only cosmetics for a while but sometimes even washing the face with water, hoping the skin will “recover” on its own.
“This resembles ‘zero therapy’ in dermatology, which can be applied in perioral dermatitis, where it is recommended to stop using most products and wash the face only with lukewarm water, or if needed and tolerated – with a gentle cleanser. This can help improve the skin condition if dermatitis and rashes are provoked by excessive use of active ingredients or allergy to certain components. However, ‘zero therapy’ should not be confused with the idea of not washing or cleansing the face even with water,” warns I. Gylienė.
During the day, various dust and airborne particles accumulate on the skin, mixing with sweat and sebum, makeup is applied, and insufficient hygiene can promote pore clogging and provoke other problems. Modern medicine is advantageous because if a person suffers from rashes and inflammation, a doctor can help select a suitable and safe skincare routine and prescribe treatment. “Self-recovery of the skin without external help can be an uncomfortably slow process,” says the dermatovenerologist.
„Face basting“ or „zinc slugging“ – applying a cream with zinc, also called “diaper cream,” on the face overnight.
“Certain soothing balms or creams containing zinc oxide or gluconate can be used for both face and body skin care – this is usually indicated in the product instructions. Such products can indeed soothe the skin, reduce dryness, and promote healing if used as intended and according to the manufacturer’s recommendations,” says I. Gylienė.
However, the specialist warns: although products for diaper rash also contain zinc oxide, these ointments are generally not intended for facial skin: they are greasy, anhydrous, and their occlusion can worsen skin prone to acne, folliculitis, or perioral dermatitis.
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„Skin flooding“ – layering several moisturizing products one after another, hoping for plumper skin.
“This method can be useful for some, but even five layers won’t hydrate the skin if the products are not properly selected. Usually, a few layers are enough: first, products with humectants (glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, etc.). Then – emollients for the skin barrier (squalane, triglycerides, fatty acids, ceramides). If the skin is very dry and not prone to acne, a layer with petrolatum, mineral oil, silicones, waxes is possible,” the specialist outlines the essential steps.
According to I. Gylienė, the most important thing is to safely combine products so as not to irritate the skin with an excess of active ingredients, added fragrances, or essential oils. Well-formulated moisturizing creams often already combine humectants, emollients, and occlusive agents in one product, so most people do not need many layers at all.
DIY scrubs with baking soda, coffee, sugar, or other kitchen ingredients. The dermatovenerologist notes that after such experiments, people often have to see a doctor.
“A single gentle exfoliation usually does no harm, but people often tend to overuse it, eventually stripping the outer protective barrier of the skin. The skin becomes dry, irritated, and sensitive to any products. To regularly and safely smooth the skin texture, I recommend using products specifically designed for the skin and with appropriate concentrations, for example, glycolic, salicylic, lactic acid, or higher concentration urea products selected according to the skin problem,” advises I. Gylienė.
„Tan-maxxing“ – its followers encourage spending as much time as possible in the sun for a brighter tan, often underestimating the importance of sun protection and SPF products. This is the most dangerous „TikTok“ trend because it directly promotes the development of skin cancer, emphasizes I. Gylienė.
“UV rays – both natural and artificial – are proven carcinogens. Every tan or sunburn means damage to the DNA of skin cells, and the accumulation of this damage increases the risk of skin cancer over time. It is important to understand that a ‘safe tan’ does not exist. If you want the effect of tanned skin, a much safer alternative is self-tanning products,” says the dermatovenerologist.
Before repeating advice seen online – a few questions to ask yourself
Pharmacist Toma Gečienė emphasizes that even seemingly harmless skincare trends are not universal. What suits dry skin may be completely unsuitable for oily, sensitive, or acne-prone skin.
“Content on social networks is not necessarily created primarily for real skin benefits – sometimes views and attention are the main goals. Therefore, before blindly trying a new method or product, you should assess your skin type, its condition, and whether your skin is sensitive to active ingredients,” says T. Gečienė.
She reminds that frequent changes of products and the entire routine can also end with skin barrier irritation, redness, stinging, or dryness. Therefore, before using a new product, it is recommended to perform a safety test – try a small amount on the wrist and observe for 24–48 hours. If itching or redness appears, do not use the product on the face.
“Advice promising miraculous quick results should be evaluated especially cautiously. It is always best to consult a specialist before trying innovations – they can help determine whether the method seen online really suits your skin or is just another short-lived trend,” says the pharmacist.
