In the past several years, skincare and makeup experts have taken to social media to test products, debunk myths, and provide makeup tutorials for their audiences. If you’ve been plugged into this type of activity you’ve likely seen these personalities testing different face masks or peels, applying full faces of makeup, or you may have been lucky enough to stumble upon social media accounts specifically dedicated to pimple popping. These three activities are among many trends presented as the key to having beautiful and healthy skin, but before falling victim to trend traps it is important to first weigh their benefits and threats to the health of your skin.
Face Masks and Peels
If you’re looking for a quick and cost-effective solution for skin related issues, homemade face masks might be the perfect fix. Although some might question the logic behind putting food on your face instead of in your mouth, there are several foods in your kitchen that could provide a solution for your problem. For example, face masks made with avocados can create tighter pores, and smoother and brighter skin.
The alternative to this green mask is a store bought solution. Social media users have recently become obsessed with peel-off face masks, likely because of their unique application technique (painted on with a brush) and the satisfying removal process which reveals the dirt removed from pores. These masks also result in brighter and smoother skin, but at a higher cost.
If you’re looking for a deeper cleanse and a more radiant glow, try Silkpeels at DC Derm Docs. Reduce the appearance of acne scars, freckles, patchy or irregular skin, and damage caused by overexposure to the sun, with a Chemical peel.
Heavy Make-Up Users
Beyond the removal of blackheads and excess dirt with face masks, the most fascinating thing to watch on beauty related social media accounts are makeup tutorials. Viral videos will show barefaced women applying different layers of makeup to their skin to transform their look. Applying significant amounts of makeup can cause damage to skin, increasing the chances of breakouts and rashes. It is important for makeup users to cleanse their face and exfoliate every night in order to have a clean and blemish free surface to work on in the morning.
Pimple Popping
If you don’t spend a lot of time on social media, you might be surprised to learn that pimple popping, while considered gross by most people, is considered “satisfying” by others. Videos of individuals using extracting tools or their fingers to clear their pores have many fans and are shared frequently among social media users. But poopping pimples can result in several negative symptoms. First, it can cause red spots and scarring. Second, if you are a fan of removing blackheads from your nose and surrounding areas, an infection in these areas can cause serious and irreversible damage to your brain. In general, it is a good idea to avoid touching your skin too much and to stick with a simple yet strict cleaning regimen.
Washington, D.C. Dermatologists Drs. Dale Isaacson and Marilyn Berzin offer a number of acne treatments especially if you need an overnight fix. Skip popping pimples and try a safer alternative with dilute steroid injections for immediate results.
As with any skin treatments, including these three viral trends, it is important to be wary of unwanted reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin.
If you have any questions or would like to set up a skincare consultation please contact DC Derm Docs at (202) 664-8342.
