Stay Skin Safe
Take a minute to learn some skin-saving tips that will help your skin stay safe and healthy.
Red Flags On Social Media
“Dermatologists hate this one”
Influencers claiming that the product they are promoting is gate-kept by dermatologists are simply spreading false information. Dermatologists dedicate their lives to in-depth research on skin care and know far more than the average influencer. When in doubt, ask your dermatologist before trying something.
Unverified medical claims
Whenever an influencer makes a medical claim, take it with a grain of salt. Influencers are not licensed medical providers and can not properly assess if something is medically appropriate. Always do research and check with a licensed dermatologist before using a so-called medical or dermatologist-approved product.
Influencers that only promote new products
Not every new product is going to be perfect for one person. Influencers who only promote new products are likely getting paid for their testimonies and aren’t speaking their full truths. A trustworthy influencer will tell you when a product is going to be the best idea for you. Additionally, it is always a good idea to ask a licensed dermatologist.
DIY Skincare w/ kitchen ingredients
Making DIY skincare is never a good idea. In handmade skincare, there are numerous places for error and miscalculation. While some home concoctions could potentially be beneficial, it is best to avoid them and ask a dermatologist for advice.
Excessive use of strong ingredients
Skin care ingredients can range from useless to extremely potent chemicals. Chemicals, whether potent or not, are purposefully used in moderation when applied to the skin. Excessive use of chemicals can cause harm to your skin. If you're in doubt, always ask a licensed dermatologist for advice.
Godoy, Maria. “Social Media Is Fueling a Tween Skin Care Craze. Some Dermatologists Are Wary.” NPR, 12 July 2024, www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2024/07/12/nx-s1-4990677/teens-skin-care-social-media-tweens-tiktok-influencers.
Smart. “Beauty Red Flags: How to Spot Bad Skincare Advice on Social Media.” Smart Cosmetics, Mar. 2025, smartcosmeticstudio.com/blogs/news/beauty-red-flags-how-to-spot-bad-skincare-advice-on-social-media?srsltid=AfmBOorSHHjw14Fy0oJSjrWJmfbqaMYg7eyWoDEyfyeCoKMrX6Lw7jeI. Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.
Promise of instant results
If a content creator tells you a product gives instant results, chances are they are lying. Skincare is meant to be a daily routine, not a one-and-done solution. Some skincare products contain harsh chemicals, and because of that, using them in moderation is healthier and therefore takes longer.
Claims of toxin or chemical free
All skincare has some form of chemical, so any claims otherwise are likely false. Chemicals are what make skincare effective, and contrary to the connotation of the word, not all chemicals are bad for you; they simply need to be used in moderation.