It’s no secret that TikTok has become a major player in shaping beauty and skincare habits — especially among younger audiences. One viral video can send an obscure ingredient flying off the shelves or have people trying DIY routines with products pulled from their kitchen cupboards. But as dermatologists and aesthetic practitioners will tell you, not everything that trends online should end up on your face.
So how can you tell the difference between skincare advice worth following and trends better left on your feed?
The Good: Trends Backed by Evidence
Not all TikTok skincare is fluff. In fact, some trends are rooted in solid science and dermatological insight — even if they arrive wrapped in Gen Z humour and flashy editing. One example is the surge in popularity of skin cycling (rotating active ingredients across the week to avoid irritation), which echoes best practice advice that’s long been recommended by professionals.
Another trend with merit? While it’s not for everyone (especially those prone to acne), the principle of preserving the skin barrier is sound.
The Grey Area: Professional Treatments on Camera
We’re also seeing more content where users film themselves getting injectable treatments or chemical peels, often giving advice based on personal experience. While transparency can be a positive thing, it’s important to remember that what works for one person’s skin type or concerns may not be appropriate for another. Treatments like microneedling, retinol peels, or even LED masks can be highly effective — but only when tailored to the individual and carried out (or recommended) by professionals.
The Risky: Dangerous DIYs and Misinformation
Then there are the trends that raise red flags. Homemade masks involving lemon juice and baking soda, using sunscreen “only where light hits”, and applying 100% glycolic acid at the home — these are examples where popular content strays into risky territory. Many of these DIYs can damage the skin’s protective barrier, cause irritation, or worsen pigmentation issues.
Even with over-the-counter actives, the “more is more” mindset can do more harm than good. Layering too many acids or using prescription-strength ingredients without medical advice might not show up as a problem right away, but over time it can lead to sensitivity, breakouts, and accelerated skin ageing.
So, Should You Trust TikTok with Your Skin?
TikTok can be a great place to discover new ingredients, learn from others, and explore what’s out there — but it’s not a substitute for personalised, professional skincare advice. If a product or treatment seems too good to be true, or if you’re unsure whether it suits your skin, it’s always best to check with a qualified practitioner.
While it’s easy to dismiss viral beauty content as a passing fad, there’s no denying that TikTok has changed how people discover and engage with skincare. It’s made terminology like “niacinamide” and “retinoids” part of everyday vocabulary, and helped demystify many treatment options that were once only discussed behind closed doors. That’s a positive shift — but it also comes with new responsibilities for creators, consumers, and practitioners alike.
The golden rule? Curiosity is great, but caution is better. Before you invest in a trending serum, exfoliate daily with multiple acids, or book an aesthetic treatment based on a 30-second video, take a breath. Consult someone qualified, especially when it comes to treatments that affect the deeper layers of the skin.
The skin is a living, reactive organ — not a content trend. And looking after it properly means taking advice from people who understand its science, not just its aesthetic. There are many clinics offering medically-led aesthetics that will offer you sound advice and realistic results.
