In the age of TikTok, the beauty community and the cosmetics industry have found a new playground to reach the masses. With an influx of new and innovative skincare tips and tricks being shared daily, it's hard to know which ones are worth your time and effort. While some of these hacks may be entertaining, not all of them are effective or backed by scientific evidence.
Some tips and tricks for skincare and hair care can do more harm than good. With the abundance of information online, especially on social media, it’s important to be cautious and critical of the trends we follow, especially when it comes to our beauty routines.
Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil
Aside from its beauty benefits for skin and hair, oil pulling with coconut oil has recently gained popularity on TikTok as a dental care trend. Proponents of this method claim that swishing coconut oil in the mouth for 5-10 minutes helps remove bacteria, freshens breath, and naturally whitens teeth.
While oil pulling with coconut oil may help maintain oral hygiene and fresh breath, there is no scientific evidence to support its teeth-whitening effects. Therefore, it should not be considered a replacement for regular brushing and flossing. Additionally, refined coconut oils may contain impurities that reduce the effectiveness of this practice.
Avocado Hair Mask
Avocado hair masks are a cost-effective and popular at-home hair treatment, especially for those with dry, damaged, or frizzy hair. Avocados are rich in oleic acid and monounsaturated fats, which nourish the hair, enhance shine, and improve manageability.
Regular use of avocado hair masks can promote hair growth and strengthen hair, thanks to its high biotin content. However, this treatment is best suited for dry and damaged hair. Those with oily scalps may find that avocado, and other natural hair masks, can make their hair greasy.
Castor oil, extracted from the seeds of the castor plant, has long been used in cosmetics and health remedies. Recently, TikTok users have been raving about using castor oil as a nighttime skincare treatment, claiming that it helps achieve clear and smooth skin, reduces irritation, and diminishes signs of aging.
However, there is a lack of scientific evidence or expert endorsement to support these claims. As with any beauty trend, it’s important to approach with caution and not expect miraculous results. Some practices are fun to experiment with, but they may not always deliver on their promises.
Frequently asked questions
The latest trend to go viral on TikTok is a unique beauty hack that involves using a face razor to exfoliate and remove facial hair, also known as dermaplaning.
Dermaplaning is a simple yet effective method where a sharp, sterile blade is used to gently scrape off the top layer of dead skin cells and vellus hair (peach fuzz) from the face.
This technique offers multiple benefits. Firstly, it provides a deeper level of exfoliation compared to traditional methods, resulting in smoother, brighter, and softer skin. Secondly, it helps remove fine hairs from the face, creating a flawless canvas for makeup application and allowing skincare products to penetrate more effectively. Additionally, dermaplaning can aid in reducing the appearance of acne scars and fine lines, giving the skin a more youthful appearance.
When performed correctly and with the right tools, dermaplaning is generally safe for most skin types. However, it’s important to use a gentle touch and a clean, sharp blade to avoid irritation or cuts. It is always recommended to consult a dermatologist or skincare professional before trying any new treatment, especially if you have sensitive skin or specific skin concerns.
It is advised to dermaplane once every three to four weeks. This allows enough time for the skin to heal and for hair to grow back. Overdoing it can irritate the skin and lead to unwanted side effects.
Some possible side effects include temporary redness and irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. It is crucial to use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer after dermaplaning to soothe the skin. Additionally, sun protection is essential, as freshly exfoliated skin may be more sensitive to sunlight.
Yes, at-home dermaplaning is possible with the right tools and techniques. Ensure you invest in a good-quality, sterile face razor designed specifically for dermaplaning. Always use a light touch and follow the instructions carefully. It is also important to disinfect your tool before and after each use to maintain proper hygiene.
Hair care is a tedious and challenging task. One wrong move and your hair can be left damaged and dry. It is important to be aware of common mistakes and take the necessary steps to ensure your locks remain healthy and vibrant.
Using flour and vinegar to wash your hair may sound unusual, but these inexpensive and readily available ingredients can deliver surprisingly effective results.
Honey is a natural source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that safeguards the skin from sun damage and prevents premature aging. This liquid gold is a sweet treat with a multitude of benefits, protecting and nourishing your skin to maintain a youthful and radiant complexion.
Coconut oil’s antifungal properties help fight dandruff and promote scalp health. This natural oil is a powerful weapon against the fungi that cause dandruff, and its moisturizing qualities nourish the scalp, keeping it healthy and happy.