A leading skin expert has issued a stark warning that popular TikTok beauty trends are causing a dramatic rise in skin damage and premature ageing, dubbing the phenomenon 'TikTok face'.
Dr. Tiina Meder, a renowned dermatologist and founder of a top skincare clinic, explains that the platform's viral routines often involve aggressive, DIY techniques that strip the skin's natural barrier. This relentless pursuit of instant results is leaving a generation with irritated, sensitised, and prematurely aged skin.
The Main Culprits Behind The Damage
Dr. Meder highlights several specific trends that are causing the most harm:
- Over-Exfoliation: Using harsh physical scrubs and potent chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs daily, destroying the skin's protective layer.
- 'Skin Cycling' Overload: While the concept has merit, many on TikTok are overcomplicating it with too many active ingredients, leading to irritation.
- DIY Treatments: Dangerous at-home procedures involving ingredients like lemon juice or undiluted essential oils that cause burns and long-term damage.
- Product Layering Overkill: Applying excessive serums, acids, and retinoids simultaneously in a 'more is more' approach that the skin cannot tolerate.
What Is 'TikTok Face'?
Unlike 'tech neck' or 'Zoom face', 'TikTok face' is characterised by a distinct set of issues: a weakened skin barrier resulting in redness, a tight, shiny complexion, increased sensitivity, and ironically, more breakouts. Most concerning is the onset of fine lines and sagging skin much earlier than natural ageing would cause.
Dr. Meder states, "Young people are imitating these extreme routines without understanding their skin's needs. They are causing invisible damage that will take years to repair."
How To Protect Your Skin
The advice from experts is simple:
- Less is More: Stick to a simple routine: a gentle cleanser, a moisturiser suited to your skin type, and daily SPF 50 sunscreen.
- Seek Professional Advice: Consult a dermatologist or a qualified aesthetician instead of trusting viral trends.
- Introduce Actives Slowly: If using retinol or acids, start with a low concentration once a week and never combine them without guidance.
- Listen to Your Skin: If your skin feels tight, looks shiny, or is stinging, it's a sign of barrier damage. Stop all actives and focus on hydration.
If you've experienced skin issues from a TikTok trend, you are not alone. Clinics are reporting a significant increase in patients seeking help to reverse the damage caused by these DIY routines.
