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Cocoa powder as dry shampoo, toothpaste against pimples or DIY acid treatments – what seems harmless on social media can seriously damage the skin.
A beauty expert explains the risks behind the most popular internet tricks.
Numerous beauty tips are currently circulating on platforms like TikTok and Reddit. A recent thread about "weird beauty hacks that actually work" has compiled hundreds of tips – from ice applications and diaper cream to homemade acid treatments.
But Danielle Louise, an expert at the beauty platform Fresha (fresha.com), is now sounding the alarm: Many of these methods can do more harm than good.
Why the hacks seem to work
The short-term effects often mask the true impact. "These tricks create an immediate effect – less swelling, firmer skin, or a drier-looking pimple," explains Louise.
However, appearances are deceiving: "At the same time, ideal conditions are created for later problems." Skin care "This is a barrier, not a scientific experiment."
The supposed improvements usually result from dehydration, temporary cooling, or an occlusive film – not from real skincare.
The biggest problem: Damaged skin barriers often require weeks of treatment to get redness, flaking and newly formed blemishes under control.
These methods are particularly risky.
1. DIY acids and hydrogen peroxide
Using strong acids like TCA or hydrogen peroxide on pimples and age spots poses significant risks. "This is where DIY beauty becomes truly dangerous," warns Louise.
Incorrect application can lead to burns, scarring and permanent pigmentation disorders – problems that are significantly more difficult to treat than the original skin issue.
2. Toothpaste and other misuses
Applying toothpaste to blemishes, using anti-dandruff shampoo on the face, or using antibiotic ointments can damage the skin barrier. The result: excessive sebum production due to a rebound effect, increased inflammation, or contact dermatitis.
3. Kitchen ingredients on the skin
Lemon, cinnamon, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, or cocoa disrupt the skin's pH balance and can lead to irritation, clogged hair follicles, and uneven skin tone. Deposits and itching are particularly likely on the scalp.
4. Ice directly on the skin
While ice may reduce swelling in the short term, direct contact puts a strain on delicate capillaries. The consequences range from burst blood vessels and redness to increased sensitivity, especially in reactive skin.
5. Slugging with Vaseline
This method can be beneficial for very dry skin, but becomes problematic when used over strong active ingredients or in cases of perioral dermatitis. Encapsulated active ingredients can exacerbate irritation, and certain skin types may react with clogged pores.
When should you become skeptical?
Danielle Louise advises avoiding any trick that causes a strong burning or tingling sensation, uses professional exfoliating products for home use, or contains toothpaste, lemon, vinegar, and undiluted essential oils.
Products not intended for facial skin also have no place there. "If you wouldn't use it on a baby's skin, you shouldn't apply it to a weakened skin barrier," the expert said.
Special caution is advised when using retinoids or exfoliating acids – the combination with trendy products often leads to unnoticed over-care.
Safe alternatives without risk
For swollen skin, Louise recommends cool compresses or chilled eye masks instead of ice cubes. For oily roots, scalp-friendly dry shampoos help instead of cocoa or cornstarch.
It's better to treat pimples with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide than with toothpaste. For even skin tone, vitamin C products with daily sunscreen are more suitable than lemon or vinegar mixtures.
A visit to skincare professionals is recommended for persistent redness, burning or tightness, recurring pustules around the mouth, stubborn acne or pigment spots that are worsening.
When professional help is needed
"The most effective beauty routine is the one that the skin tolerates well in the long term," Louise summarizes. "If a hack feels dramatic, the damage can be too – and skin regenerates slowly."
Fresha is a global beauty and wellness platform that connects customers with salons, spas and self-care professionals.
Fresha helps users discover and book services and assists businesses with scheduling, payments, and customer management.
Sierks Media / © Photos: Houcine Ncib (1), Nataliya Melnychuk (1), Unsplash
