B.S. Beauty Trends That Make Me Want to Cry (or Laugh to Stop from Crying)

Let’s set the scene. It’s midnight, and you’re scrolling through TikTok when suddenly, you stumble upon some interesting skincare trends. It’s wild, it’s bold, it’s endorsed by someone with flawless skin and a ring light setup that would make Hollywood blush. And in that moment of “maybe they’re onto something,” you hit purchase. Then, reality sets in, and you're left with a bathroom full of questionable products and, worse yet, irritated skin. Sound familiar?

Well, buckle up, because today we’re diving into some of the most ridiculous beauty trends I’ve seen on social media that make me want to either laugh or cry - or both. And hey, I’m not here to make you feel bad; I’m here to save your skin, sanity, and money. So, let's break down some of these “beauty hacks” and why they should never see the light of your skincare routine. 

Home Microneedling – AKA the DIY disaster waiting to happen

First up, home microneedling. Don't get me wrong, microneedling is a fantastic treatment in a professional setting. But let me emphasise in a professional setting. I joined a microneedling Facebook group to do some sleuthing, and what I saw was... disturbing. People use way too much pressure, incorrect depths, applying all sorts of potions to their faces immediately after, and just generally giving terrible advice to one another.

You might think you’re giving your skin some TLC, but improper technique can lead to bruising, micro-tears, and even scarring or hyperpigmentation. Ouch! Not to mention, microneedling isn’t suitable for everyone - certain skin conditions can make it a big no-no. So, leave it to the pros who know your skin, know what shouldnt pass the skin barrier, and know when to say, “Sorry, but microneedling just isn’t for you right now.”

Poo Facials (Yep, this is a thing… and no, just no)

You’d think we’d reached peak madness with some trends, but then along comes the poo facial. Yes, you read that correctly - using faeces as a face mask. Brazilian model Débora Peixoto decided to store some of her own in the fridge and slap it on her face, claiming it stopped her skin from flaking. Honestly, I don’t know if there’s an expletive on this earth to describe how poor of a decision this is.

Health professionals were quick to say what we’re all thinking - there is zero benefit to this madness. In fact, applying poo to your face is a fast track to infections, skin irritations, and potentially some very awkward conversations with your dermatologist. Seriously, no amount of social media likes is worth risking Salmonellaor E. coli on your face.

The perfect skin illusion known as ‘Glass Skin’

Glass skin. Sounds pretty, doesn’t it? That poreless, glowing, reflective skin that makes you look like you’ve been airbrushed IRL. But let me let you in on a little secret: it’s mostly BS. Behind those ultra-hydrated, dewy faces you see online many are filters, Facetune, and the perfect lighting setup! Plus, to achieve “glass skin,” people are often over-exfoliating, layering on a ton of hydrating products, and using ring lights that give off that fake, glossy look. 

If the glass skin trend has sucked you in and you’ve noticed your face looking more irritated than glowing, it might be time to step away from the screen and rethink your routine. A healthy glow is great, but skin shouldn’t look like a glazed doughnut 24/7 - unless you’re starring in a Krispy Kreme ad, that is. 

Nasal Tanning Sprays: Barbie Drug, Meet Reality Check

Nasal tanning sprays. Oh boy. Dubbed the “Barbie Drug,” these sprays have gained traction on TikTok, despite severe warnings from health authorities. Let’s be clear: these sprays are not just illegal in many places; they’re dangerous. They can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and even kidney failure. Is a tan worth that? Not to mention, we’re talking about synthetic peptides that can lead to severe health consequences.

But the influencers keep selling it with lines like, “I’d rather die hot than live ugly.” And I’m just here, waving my arms, yelling, “There’s a middle ground, people!” You can be healthy and still rock a killer glow - no questionable sprays required.

Why listen to TikTok when you can talk to a pro?

Here’s the thing: social media is great for a lot of things, but medical advice, skincare routines, and injectable trends aren’t one of them. I get it; it’s easy to be dazzled by a flawless influencer with perfect lighting and a carefully curated shelfie. But here’s what they don’t have- your skin in front of them. They haven’t assessed it, they don’t know its history, your health history and they certainly don’t hold a professional title that qualifies them to give advice that could impact your skin (and health). That’s where I come in.

 If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the latest “trending” skincare hacks and wondering what’s legit and what’s a load of B.S., let’s chat. Book a consultation with me, and together, we’ll figure out what’s actually going to work for your skin. The internet might be full of advice, but it’s not full of good advice. Trust the professionals who can actually see your skin, understand your concerns, provide real, effective solutions.

So, next time you see a new “hack” on TikTok, take a breath and ask yourself, “Do I want glowing skin, or do I want to look like I just rolled out of a questionable Facebook group?” The choice is yours, but I know where I’d put my money.

Any other Beauty Trends you’ve seen? Let me know in the comments as I’d love to check them out x