Skin expert reveals TikTok beauty trends you should avoid this summer
"Everyone's skin is also unique and has different requirements, so it’s always best to consult a professional and get expert advice."
While TikTok is a great place to go for entertainment, you may want to think twice before taking just anyone's advice when it come to at-home beauty treatments.
Skin expert at Laser Clinics Australia, Aimee Quirke, has revealed to Yahoo Lifestyle that there are many at-home beauty treatments that people should avoid to not cause any adverse reactions.
"With the rise of social media platforms, the beauty industry has really opened and become more accessible," Aimee tells us. "The sharing of information, education, and reviews now readily available to consumers across products, treatments, and services. Not all information is filtered or provided by experts or qualified skin therapists which can become tricky as everyone’s skin is unique and we all have different goals."
She continues, saying you should always consult a professional before doing anything drastic to your skin, "With anything, it’s always best to consult a professional before engaging in something that could have an adverse effect on health – skin health included. Often content is shared without a filter or disclaimer, or with misinformation. Following advice without checking with a professional to see if it’s right for you, can have a negative impact. Everyone's skin is also unique and has different requirements, so it’s always best to consult a professional and get expert advice."
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While some trends aren't so great to see online, Aimee has seen one trend emerge that is actually helpful, "In recent times being sun smart and innovation in sun protection has really taken off which is great to see as it’s such an important issue for all Australians. I think skin health has become more of a focus for Australians and skincare itself being prioritised over makeup. There are so many great beauty treatments available and social media is a great way to have insight into what’s out there, so I think people are really taking advantage of that."
Aimee adds that people should always be applying TGA-approved sunscreens and applying them as suggested, don't try and follow Gwyneth Paltrow's suggestions on sunscreen application!
Slugging
Slugging is another trend that some TikTokers swear by. It's a nighttime routine that involves cleansing and moisturising your face, then slathering on a layer of an ointment like Vaseline to 'lock in' moisture while you sleep.
While some TikTokers rave about slugging, it's not for everyone, with Aimee telling us, "This trend really had a moment a few months ago now. While some people might see results, certain skin types can have negative reactions. An oily, congested skin type could be exacerbated by these trends, so it’s not something we’d recommend."
She adds that there are other ways to create that glossy look, "Treatments like a Skinstitut AquaFacial provides instant Hydration and a glossy, hydrated look. This is because the treatment infuses antioxidants into the skin, to ensure they are delivered deep into the skin layers. The treatment is also suitable for most skin types and is carried out by a trained therapist, so you know you’re in good hands."
DIY microneedling
At-home microneedling has also increased in popularity but can go very wrong if done incorrectly. Microneedling creates mild injury through small needles which then stimulate collagen production and can be used to treat acne scarring, skin texture and skin tone.
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"If this is not done by a professional you can seriously injure the skin and create wounds, there is a risk of bacteria causing infections and making things a whole lot worse," Aimee explains. "These types of treatments should only ever be carried out by trained professionals as a part of a tailored treatment plan."
"There are several risk factors when it comes to at home treatments, especially with something like microneedling," Aimee adds. "A few key concerns include over-treating the skin, causing significant and sometimes irreversible damage and not to mention the risk of infection! It’s always best to leave it to the experts when it comes to addressing skin concerns."
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