In the age of TikTok trends and Instagram beauty reels, it’s easy to fall for skincare hacks that promise flawless skin overnight. But when it comes to your skin, not everything that goes viral is safe—or effective.
In fact, some of these DIY tips and tricks can do more harm than good.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most popular skincare hacks circulating online, debunk the myths behind them, and share what dermatologists actually recommend.
1. Lemon Juice for Brightening Skin
The Hack: Apply lemon juice directly to your face to lighten dark spots and even out skin tone.
The Truth: Lemon juice is highly acidic, with a pH around 2. This can disrupt your skin’s natural barrier, leading to irritation, dryness, and even chemical burns—especially if you go out in the sun afterward (a condition known as phytophotodermatitis).
Dermatologist’s Take: Opt for products with stabilized vitamin C or niacinamide, which are scientifically proven to brighten skin without the risks.
2. Toothpaste to Dry Out Pimples
The Hack: Dab some toothpaste on a pimple before bed to dry it out overnight.
The Truth: While toothpaste does contain ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, it’s not formulated for the skin. Toothpaste can lead to excessive dryness, redness, and irritation.
Dermatologist’s Take: Use spot treatments with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or sulfur—ingredients that are specifically developed for acne management.
3. DIY Microneedling with Derma Rollers from Amazon
The Hack: Use a derma roller at home to stimulate collagen and treat acne scars.
The Truth: Microneedling is a medical-grade procedure that should be performed in a sterile environment. Using derma rollers at home without proper hygiene can lead to infections, scarring, and worsening of skin conditions.
Dermatologist’s Take: Schedule microneedling with a board-certified dermatologist or licensed medical aesthetician for safe and effective results.
4. Using Deodorant as a Primer
The Hack: Apply deodorant to your face to reduce oil and make makeup last longer.
The Truth: Deodorants contain aluminum compounds and fragrances that can clog pores and irritate the skin. They’re meant for underarms, not your face.
Dermatologist’s Take: Use oil-controlling primers that are non-comedogenic and formulated for facial use. Look for ingredients like dimethicone or silica.
5. Cinnamon and Honey Face Masks
The Hack: Combine cinnamon and honey to fight acne and inflammation.
The Truth: While honey has natural antibacterial properties, cinnamon is a strong irritant that can cause burns and allergic reactions, especially in people with sensitive skin.
Dermatologist’s Take: Stick with gentle, proven ingredients like tea tree oil (in diluted form), clay masks, or prescription topicals for acne-prone skin.
6. Icing Your Face Daily
The Hack: Rub ice cubes on your face every morning to shrink pores and reduce puffiness.
The Truth: While cold therapy can reduce inflammation and puffiness temporarily, overdoing it can damage capillaries or cause frostbite, especially if applied directly without a barrier.
Dermatologist’s Take: Use a cold compress or facial roller stored in the fridge. And always wrap ice in a cloth—never apply directly.
7. Sunscreen Contouring (or “Sunburn Contouring”)
The Hack: Apply sunscreen only to certain areas of the face to create a “contoured” look after sun exposure.
The Truth: This is not just ineffective—it’s dangerous. Exposing your skin to harmful UV rays increases your risk of premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer.
Dermatologist’s Take: Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) evenly across your entire face and neck. If you want a contoured look, stick to makeup or bronzer.
8. Egg White Face Masks for Tightening Pores
The Hack: Apply raw egg whites to your face to tighten skin and reduce the appearance of pores.
The Truth: There’s minimal scientific evidence to support this. Worse, raw egg can carry salmonella, posing a risk of infection.
Dermatologist’s Take: Use products with retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that promote collagen production and refine pores over time.
Conclusion: Trust Science, Not Social Media
Skincare is personal, and what works for one person might not work for another. But one thing is certain—just because something goes viral doesn’t mean it’s safe or effective. Many of these hacks can cause irritation, breakouts, or even long-term damage.
When in doubt, consult a qualified dermatologist. They can provide evidence-based recommendations tailored to your skin type and concerns. Social media can be a great place for inspiration—but when it comes to your health, expertise always trumps trends.
Need Professional Advice?
At Athena Skin Clinic, our board-certified dermatologists are here to help you navigate the overwhelming world of skincare. Book a consultation today to build a regimen that works—with science, not shortcuts.