Kathleen Peara, Licensed Esthetician and Founder of KATHLEEN PEARA SKINCARE FOR LIFE
The Rise of TikTok Skincare Culture
TikTok has rapidly become one of the most influential platforms for beauty and skincare advice, particularly among teens and young adults. With billions of views under hashtags like #skincareroutine and #acnecare, the platform is shaping how an entire generation learns to care for their skin.
Unfortunately, much of this information is anecdotal, trend-driven, and lacking clinical or professional oversight. What begins as curiosity and self-care often leads to overuse of products, damaged skin barriers, and increased sensitivities.
When Too Much Becomes Too Harmful
The biggest issue seen in professional practice today is over-exfoliation. Many viral routines promote layering multiple acids, scrubs, or retinol-based products without understanding skin physiology or tolerance. This aggressive approach disrupts the skin’s protective barrier, leading to inflammation, redness, dehydration, and even acne flare-ups — a condition known as barrier impairment dermatitis.
Teens and young adults are particularly vulnerable because their skin is still maturing. Constant product switching, combined with harsh active ingredients, can trigger long-term sensitivity and compromise natural defense mechanisms.
The Sunscreen Confusion
TikTok has also generated significant misinformation around sunscreen use. Some influencers claim that “natural light exposure is healthy” or that “sunscreen is toxic,” while others misuse tinted filters or hybrid formulas as substitutes for full-spectrum protection.
Clinically speaking, daily broad-spectrum sunscreen remains one of the most important preventive measures against premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. Any suggestion otherwise is not evidence-based and can increase long-term risk.
The Professional Perspective
Licensed estheticians and dermatologists are trained to assess individual skin types, conditions, and tolerance levels — factors that social media routines cannot account for.
A professional can determine whether exfoliation is needed, how often it should occur, and which ingredients will truly support your skin’s health rather than inflame it. Proper cleansing, hydration, and sun protection remain the foundation of every effective regimen.
What Young Viewers Need to Know
- Not every product suits every skin type. “More” does not mean “better.”
- The skin barrier is sacred. Once damaged, it takes time and care to restore.
- Sunscreen is essential. It’s the single best anti-aging and protective product you can use.
- Seek guidance. Before trying trending products or DIY hacks, consult a licensed esthetician or dermatologist for accurate, personalized advice.
A Call for Responsible Skincare Education
Social media can inspire interest in self-care, but it must be balanced with science and professional knowledge. True skincare success isn’t about following the latest viral routine—it’s about understanding your skin, respecting its limits, and nurturing it wisely.