TikTok garlic acne hack could seriously damage your teens' skin, says expert
The experts have spoken, and are warning parents against TikTok's garlic acne hack, which tells teens to rub raw garlic on their skin.
If you’ve noticed your teen scrolling TikTok for skincare tips, you may want to have a word before they reach for the garlic.
A new trend circulating on the platform claims that eating raw garlic, or worse, rubbing it directly on the skin, is a miracle cure for acne. However, dermatologists are now sounding the alarm, warning that this viral hack could do more harm than good – especially to young, sensitive skin.
Dr. Ketaki Bhate, a leading dermatologist at Self London, explains that while garlic is packed with antioxidants and does have some health benefits, applying it to the skin is a big no-no. "Garlic can cause serious irritation, or even chemical burns, particularly for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin," she warns. This could lead to long-term issues such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) – leaving behind dark marks that are often far harder to treat than the original spot.
Dr. Shereene Idriss, another skin expert, agrees, pointing out that these trends often fail to address the root causes of acne, which can be hormonal or genetic. "Garlic is not going to cure acne," she says plainly. For those struggling with acne, she stresses the importance of sticking to tried-and-tested treatments like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids, which are far more effective and much safer.
As parents, it’s all too easy to want quick fixes for our teens' skincare woes, especially when acne can affect their confidence. But dermatologists are clear – these TikTok hacks aren’t the solution, and in fact, could make things worse. Rather than risking skin burns or prolonged irritation, the best course of action is to keep things simple and consult a skincare professional.
Dr. Bhate recommends sticking to a gentle skincare routine with non-comedogenic products, meaning they won’t clog pores, and incorporating treatments tailored to your teen’s specific skin type. "A personalised skincare plan will always be more effective than a one-size-fits-all internet trend," she says.
While garlic may have its place in the kitchen, it certainly doesn’t belong in your teen’s skincare routine. As tempting as TikTok trends may seem, trusting expert advice is the safest route to healthy, glowing skin. If your teen is struggling with acne, a chat with a dermatologist could help get them on the right track – without risking any painful side effects. After all, their skin deserves more than a viral fad!
Authors
Ruairidh is the Digital Lead on MadeForMums. He works with a team of fantastically talented content creators and subject-matter experts on MadeForMums.
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