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When DIY Gets Dangerous: Skincare Trends You Shouldn’t Try at Home
Your Weekly Prompt to the Science of Skin and Success.
DFPC Team
May 22, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes
Welcome back, DERM Community!
Last week, we explored clues to catch cutaneous lymphoma early, even when it looks like something as benign as eczema. Missed it? Catch up on the red flags worth biopsying.
This week in Beneath the Surface, we’re unpacking a trend that’s exploded on social media and in some cases, sent people straight to the ER.
Let’s talk about DIY skincare gone wrong and what you should know when patients follow advice from influencers instead of evidence.
Featured on This Week’s Chapter:
The Trend: TikTok creators are applying lemon juice to their face to “brighten skin,” “fade dark spots”, and “clear acne overnight.”
It’s natural. It’s cheap. It looks effective on camera.
But…is it worth it?
Dermatologists know better.
What these videos don’t show?
Burning, stinging, long-term hyperpigmentation, and a condition called phytophotodermatitis, essentially a chemical sunburn caused when citrus compounds interact with UV light.
So here’s the truth about TikTok skincare “hacks” AND the safer alternatives you could use (+ recommend to your patients so that they don’t fall in this trending risks):
In a world where viral trends heavily influence how patients think about skincare, your voice as a clinician is more vital than ever.
What you say in the exam room truly matters, especially when many patients, particularly teens and young adults, turn to influencers who feel relatable, accessible, and immediate.
Your greatest strength isn’t competing with fear or flashy trends; it’s offering thoughtful education combined with genuine empathy.
By connecting authentically, you become the trusted guide patients need to navigate skincare with confidence and care.
👋🏻 See you next Thursday, DERM community!
As viral trends continue to shape how patients approach skincare, your voice and your clinical expertise are more important than ever.
What You Say in the Exam Room Matters
Many patients (especially teens and young adults) trust influencers more than doctors. Why? Because they feel relatable. Fast. Affordable.
Your counterbalance isn’t fear: it’s education + empathy.
💬 Try:
"I know it feels like a quick fix, but these burns are more common than you think and they can leave long-term marks. Let’s get you on something that works and protects your skin."
Got a skincare myth you’re seeing on repeat? Hit reply and let us know, we might bust it in our next issue.
Stay sharp, stay curious, and lead your patients away from hype and toward healing.
— The Derm for Primary Care Team
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