Experts Debunk Common Grandma Beauty Hacks Amid TikTok Trends
Despite the abundance of advanced skincare products today, many people still rely on traditional home remedies for beauty care, such as toothpaste on pimples or ice baths for the face. These methods have gained renewed popularity, especially after celebrities like Hailey Bieber shared their use of simple home treatments, such as ice baths to reduce facial puffiness before major events like the Met Gala.
Dr. Marina Landau, a dermatologist at Maccabi Healthcare Services, explains that while some home remedies have a scientific basis, their actual effectiveness is often limited or negligible. For example, toothpaste can dry out a single pimple temporarily but is not a proper acne treatment and may cause photoallergic reactions if exposed to sunlight. Castor oil does not stimulate eyebrow hair growth despite common belief, and lemon juice, often used for skin lightening, can worsen pigmentation and cause allergic reactions when exposed to the sun.
Other remedies like placing cold cucumber slices on the eyes can reduce puffiness slightly due to cooling effects but do not hydrate the skin. Ice baths cause temporary blood vessel constriction, giving a short-lived glow but no lasting cosmetic benefit, and excessive cold exposure can even cause skin damage. Apple cider vinegar may soften hair like a conditioner but does not clean the scalp better than shampoo and can irritate the skin and eyes.
Dr. Landau notes that many of these myths persist because social media influencers promote visually appealing but scientifically unproven treatments. While some home remedies can provide minor relief for mild conditions, they are not substitutes for medical treatments. She warns against dangerous trends like homemade sunscreen, which offers no real UV protection and can give a false sense of security.
In conclusion, Dr. Landau advises verifying the scientific basis of beauty treatments, avoiding reliance on social media trends alone, and consulting a doctor if skin conditions worsen or do not improve to prevent allergic reactions and further damage.
