It’s no secret that TikTok has become the go-to platform for skincare advice. With billions of views under hashtags like #skincarehacks and #skincaretips, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of trying the latest viral trend. But while some tips can be fun and harmless, others are misleading—or downright damaging. At ERLY, we believe skincare should be simple, safe, and grounded in science. That’s why we’re taking a closer look at some of the most popular skincare myths circulating on TikTok and debunking them with dermatologist-backed truth.
Myth #1: Using Deodorant as Primer Prevents Makeup from Smudging
Yes, you read that right. One viral hack recommends swiping stick deodorant across your face before applying foundation, claiming it will keep your makeup in place all day. While it may seem clever, this trend is far from skin-friendly.
The reality:
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Deodorant is formulated for underarms, not delicate facial skin. Most contain aluminum salts, strong fragrances, and occlusive ingredients that can clog pores and trigger irritation.
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Applying deodorant to your face disrupts your skin barrier, which can lead to redness, breakouts, or contact dermatitis.
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There are primers and setting products specifically designed for the face—safe, breathable, and tested for cosmetic use.
Dermatologist’s perspective:
Your skin deserves products that are designed for it. Using deodorant on the face is a shortcut that comes with long-term risks. If you want smooth, makeup-ready skin, opt for a lightweight moisturizer that hydrates and protects without irritation. (We love ERLY Start Moisturizer with SPF 40 for double-duty priming and protection.)
Myth #2: At-Home Chemical Peels Are a Safe DIY
Another viral trend shows creators mixing acids at home—or using products with extremely high concentrations of glycolic, salicylic, or trichloroacetic acid (TCA)—to perform their own chemical peels. The promise? Professional-level results at a fraction of the cost.
The reality:
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Professional chemical peels are carefully controlled treatments performed by trained providers who understand skin types, acid strengths, and application times.
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When done at home without proper training, chemical peels can cause burns, scarring, hyperpigmentation, and long-term damage to your skin.
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Over-the-counter exfoliating products are formulated at safe concentrations, but they’re not meant to replicate the intensity of an in-office peel.
Dermatologist’s perspective:
Skin health is not something to gamble with. Strong acids are medical-grade treatments for a reason. If you’re curious about peels, book an appointment with a licensed dermatologist or esthetician. At home, stick with gentle products that nurture your skin barrier rather than strip it. (For instance, ERLY Daily Dew Illuminating Serum provides antioxidant protection without harshness.)
Myth #3: DIY Scrubs (Like Sugar, Coffee, or Baking Soda) Exfoliate Safely
Exfoliation is one of the most misunderstood steps in skincare, and TikTok often makes matters worse. Countless videos recommend scrubbing your face with pantry staples like sugar, coffee grounds, or even baking soda to achieve baby-soft skin.
The reality:
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Kitchen ingredients are not formulated for facial skin, which is thinner and more sensitive than the rest of the body.
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Sugar and coffee grounds are too abrasive, creating micro-tears that compromise your skin barrier. These tiny injuries may not be visible immediately but can cause irritation, sensitivity, and inflammation over time.
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Baking soda disrupts your skin’s natural pH balance, leading to dryness and increased risk of breakouts.
Dermatologist’s perspective:
Physical scrubs might feel satisfying, but they’re not the safest option for facial skin. Gentle chemical exfoliants or enzyme-based products are far more effective—and less damaging. Most importantly, exfoliation should always be balanced with hydration and soothing ingredients. (That’s where ERLY Daily Soothe with Niacinamide shines—it calms, balances, and strengthens the skin barrier.)
Why Do These TikTok Skincare Myths Spread So Quickly?
TikTok skincare myths spread very quickly. Tiktok thrives on instant results and dramatic transformations. Hacks that look impressive in a 30-second video often leave out the long-term consequences. The reality is, skincare is not about overnight miracles—it’s about consistent care and protecting the health of your skin over time.
This is especially important for younger audiences. Many of these viral trends target teens who are just beginning to build skincare routines. They’re often bombarded with confusing information and may not realize that not all “hacks” are safe.
The ERLY Approach: Gentle, Effective, No Gimmicks
At ERLY, we founded our brand because we saw firsthand the consequences of chasing harsh skincare trends.
Too many products promise quick fixes but end up causing irritation or long-term damage. Our philosophy is different: no harsh ingredients, just clean, quality formulations that are safe for every skin type.
Every ERLY product is designed to nurture your skin barrier, not break it down. We believe skincare should feel gentle, effective, and sustainable—not like a risky experiment.
5 Safe Alternatives to TikTok Skincare Hacks
Instead of risking irritation or damage with viral DIYs, try these dermatologist-approved swaps:
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Instead of deodorant as primer → Use a lightweight SPF moisturizer.
Our pick: ERLY Start Moisturizer with SPF 40 doubles as hydration, sun protection, and a makeup-friendly base. -
Instead of at-home chemical peels → Try antioxidant-rich serums.
Our pick: ERLY Daily Dew Illuminating Serum provides gentle protection without the burn. -
Instead of DIY scrubs → Opt for barrier-strengthening ingredients.
Our pick: ERLY Daily Soothe with Niacinamide calms irritation and smooths texture over time. -
Instead of baking soda masks → Stick with pH-balanced cleansers.
Our pick: ERLY Face Foam Gentle Cleanser removes impurities without stripping your skin. -
Instead of chasing trends → Build a simple, consistent routine.
Cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF are the foundation of healthy skin. ERLY was designed to make that easy.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Believe Everything You Scroll
Social media has made skincare more exciting and accessible than ever, but it also comes with pitfalls. Just because a hack goes viral doesn’t mean it’s good for your skin. When in doubt, trust dermatologist-backed guidance and stick with products that prioritize skin health over spectacle.
Your skin deserves better than shortcuts—it deserves care, patience, and products that truly support its natural strength. That’s the ERLY way.
