The search for flawless skin has made one clear skin trick go viral across social media platforms. Many people claim it clears acne overnight and gives a radiant complexion quickly. However, dermatologists warn that this popular clear skin trick can actually cause significant damage to your skin instead of helping it.
In this article, we explore why the so-called clear skin trick is dangerous, what makes it harmful, and how you can achieve clear skin safely with expert-backed methods.
What Is the Popular Clear Skin Trick?
The most common viral clear skin trick involves applying toothpaste directly onto pimples or acne spots as a quick fix. The logic is that toothpaste ingredients dry out pimples rapidly, reducing their size and redness. This home remedy has been widely shared on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, gaining millions of views.
Despite its popularity, dermatologists strongly advise against this clear skin trick because toothpaste contains ingredients not designed for facial skin use.
Why Dermatologists Warn Against This Clear Skin Trick
Toothpaste contains ingredients that can irritate and damage the delicate skin on your face. While it may cause temporary drying of a pimple, the overall impact is often harmful.
Ingredients in Toothpaste That Can Harm Your Skin
- Fluoride: Can cause allergic reactions and skin sensitivity.
- Hydrogen peroxide: An oxidizing agent that can burn the skin.
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS): Harsh detergent that strips natural oils and disrupts the skin barrier.
- Menthol and flavorings: These can cause inflammation and redness.
- Abrasive agents: Physically damage the skin’s surface.
This combination can cause chemical burns, irritation, dryness, and even scarring if used repeatedly. That is why many dermatologists strongly discourage this clear skin trick despite its viral appeal.
Safe and Effective Alternatives to the Clear Skin Trick
Instead of risking damage from toothpaste, it’s important to rely on proven acne treatments that have been studied and recommended by skin experts.
Salicylic Acid for Acne
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates pores to exfoliate dead skin cells and reduce inflammation. It helps prevent clogged pores, making it ideal for treating blackheads and whiteheads.
Benzoyl Peroxide for Bacteria Control
Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces oil production. It is effective for inflammatory acne and is available in many over-the-counter formulations.
Niacinamide to Calm the Skin
Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, reduces redness and inflammation while improving the skin barrier function. It’s suitable for sensitive skin prone to irritation.
Retinoids for Long-Term Acne Management
Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, promote cell turnover and prevent clogged pores. They are one of the most effective treatments for persistent acne but require consistent use.
To explore safe products containing these ingredients, consult resources from the American Academy of Dermatology.
Building a Dermatologist-Approved Skincare Routine
The best way to treat acne and maintain clear skin is through a consistent routine using dermatologist-approved products rather than quick DIY tricks.
Morning Routine
- Gentle cleanser: Use a mild or salicylic acid-based cleanser to remove oil and dirt without stripping the skin.
- Moisturizer: Choose an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to hydrate without clogging pores.
- Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily to protect skin and prevent post-acne hyperpigmentation.
Evening Routine
- Cleanser: Remove dirt, sweat, and sunscreen with a gentle cleanser.
- Treatment: Apply benzoyl peroxide or retinoid product as prescribed or recommended.
- Moisturizer: Use a hydrating moisturizer to repair and soothe skin overnight.
Avoid harsh scrubbing or applying household products like toothpaste, which can worsen acne or cause irritation.
Why Do People Keep Trying the Clear Skin Trick?
Despite warnings, the clear skin trick continues to be popular due to several factors:
- Quick visible results: Toothpaste dries out pimples fast, giving the illusion of improvement.
- Low cost and easy availability: Toothpaste is a common household item.
- Viral social media trends: Influencers and viral videos encourage people to try it without fully understanding the risks.
However, dermatologists emphasize that short-term improvements often lead to long-term skin damage.
Other Harmful Skincare Myths to Avoid
Besides toothpaste, other popular but harmful skincare myths include:
- Lemon juice: Highly acidic and can cause chemical burns.
- Baking soda scrubs: Disrupts skin pH and damages the skin barrier.
- Glue as blackhead remover: Causes skin trauma and worsens pores.
- Essential oils undiluted: Can cause allergic reactions and irritation.
For more myths debunked, refer to DermNet NZ’s skincare myth page.
Why You Should Avoid the Clear Skin Trick
- The clear skin trick using toothpaste is harmful and can cause irritation, burns, and scarring.
- Toothpaste ingredients are not formulated for facial skin use.
- Safe and effective acne treatments include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, niacinamide, and retinoids.
- Consistent skincare routines with dermatologist-recommended products provide the best long-term results.
What to Do Next for Clear Skin
If you’re struggling with acne or want to improve your skin, stop using harmful DIY treatments. Instead:
- Consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.
- Use skincare products with proven active ingredients.
- Maintain a gentle, consistent skincare routine.
- Learn more with expert resources such as American Academy of Dermatology.
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