Why TikTok's DIY beauty hacks might not be your skin's best friend
I love TikTok hacks as much as anyone else. They’re fun, creative, and sometimes surprisingly useful. But it's important to remember that some things are best approached with caution, especially when it comes to your skin.
If something seems too good to be true, it might be worth consulting a professional instead. Trends come and go, and chances are, in a few weeks, everyone will have moved on to the next big thing.
The latest TikTok trend taking the internet by storm involves a DIY treatment for body spots, using common household items like vinegar and baking soda. While this might sound like a convenient solution, beauty experts are warning against it.
The popular beauty brand, BEAUTY PIE, has issued a warning about this viral TikTok hack. They recommend avoiding vinegar and baking soda for treating body breakouts and instead suggest using a skin-safe body wash containing ingredients like salicylic acid.
@creative_explained How to make a homemade spot treatment for pimples! 🤩 #pimples #acne #skincare #beautyhacks #lifehacks #tipsandtricks #diy ♬ original sound - creative explained
These products are specifically designed to effectively treat conditions like bacne (back acne) and other body blemishes without risking irritation or damage.
Like the adage goes, summer bodies are made in winter, with summer approaching and our wardrobes reveal more skin, many people feel self-conscious about conditions like bacne, Keratosis Pilaris and other blemishes.
This has led to a surge in DIY remedies on TikTok, touted as cost-effective and easy solutions to these issues. However, it's crucial to be careful and stick to methods that are proven safe and effective.
One video titled “Baking Soda Honey Vinegar for Pimples” has over 66.1 million views, while another clip showcasing before and after shots of body acne boasts 68.9 million hits.
Despite the seemingly impressive results and the appeal of this inexpensive treatment, skincare experts from Beauty Pie are advising caution.
They warn that the combination of baking soda and vinegar can be harmful and may cause skin irritation.
Baking soda, with a pH level of nine, is naturally alkaline. When applied to the skin, it can disrupt the natural pH balance, leading to dryness and itching.
Similarly, apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, which can cause significant irritation and discomfort, especially in body acne and broken skin, and is even more problematic when used in large quantities.
While the allure of quick, cheap fixes is strong, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and side effects. Experts recommend using products specifically designed for skin care, ensuring both safety and effectiveness.
What is the safer alternative?
A safer way to help treat body acne and Keratosis Pilaris is to use Body Pie’s AcidEnzyme Exfoliating Face & Body Cleanser to smooth, brighten and exfoliate without causing dryness or irritation.
Massage a couple of pumps onto damp skin, using circular motions on the problem areas before rinsing. For more exfoliation on texturised skin, massage the product and leave it on for a couple of minutes before rinsing well with lukewarm water.
Other safer, more effective alternatives include options that feature salicylic acid and C-X-Papaya enzyme.
Aloe vera gel, and retinol are designed to tackle existing spots and prevent future breakouts. Salicylic Acid gently exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores by removing dead -skin cells, and regulates sebum production. C-X-Papaya enzyme smooths and brightens the skin.
For those struggling with Keratosis Pilaris, several treatments are recommended, including Vanicream’s Moisturizing Skin Cream with Pump Dispenser, Cerave’s SA Lotion for Rough & Bumpy Skin, Dermacare Face and Body Salicylic Smoothing Cream, and The Solution Salicylic Acid Clear Skin Body Gel.
These ingredients work together to exfoliate, moisturize, soothe, and protect the skin, making them effective in treating various skin conditions like bacne, Keratosis Pilaris, and other blemishes.
Nicola Moulton, the editorial director at Beauty Pie, advises, “If you are dealing with breakouts on your body and you’re considering trying this DIY trend, I would urge you to look for safer, more regulated, and ultimately, more efficacious alternatives."
“While conditions like body acne can make us feel less confident, there’s no quick fix and it’s important to be patient if you want the best results and commit to a routine that utilises proven - and safe - skincare ingredients.”