🌸 Viral Skincare Trends: What Works and What’s Overhyped? A Dermatologist Breaks It Down

Social media is flooded with skincare trends — from “slugging” to “skin cycling.” But do they actually work? Dr (Major) Gurveen Waraich rates six of the most viral beauty hacks to reveal what’s worth your time and what’s just hype.

---

The world of skincare is constantly evolving, with TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube serving as breeding grounds for viral beauty hacks. From dipping your face in ice water to layering thick ointments at night, these trends often promise glowing, youthful skin — but not all deliver.

To separate fact from fad, dermatologist Dr (Major) Gurveen Waraich shared her expert take on six of the most talked-about skincare and haircare trends dominating social media right now.

---

🧊 1. Ice Face Dipping (Rating: 5/10)

The trend: Submerging your face in ice water for a few seconds to tighten pores and reduce puffiness.

What the expert says:
Dr Waraich confirms it can temporarily improve circulation, reduce morning puffiness, and make skin look fresher. However, she warns that these effects are short-lived and purely cosmetic. Overuse can even irritate sensitive skin or worsen rosacea.

Takeaway:
✅ Works as a quick refresh
🚫 No long-term benefits

Pro tip: Use a cold compress or chilled jade roller for similar effects with less mess.

---

💧 2. Slugging (Rating: 7/10)

The trend: Applying a thick layer of petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) as the final step in your nighttime routine to “lock in” moisture.

What the expert says:
Dr Waraich recommends slugging for people with dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin. It effectively prevents transepidermal water loss, helping the skin barrier recover.

However, those with oily or acne-prone skin should approach carefully — it can clog pores or worsen breakouts.

Takeaway:
✅ Great for dry skin or barrier repair
🚫 Risky for oily/acne-prone types

Pro tip: Try a thin layer over moisturiser instead of full-face slugging.

---

🌿 3. Rosemary Oil for Hair (Rating: 4/10)

The trend: Massaging rosemary oil into the scalp to promote hair growth.

What the expert says:
While some studies hint at rosemary oil improving scalp circulation, Dr Waraich stresses that scientific proof remains limited. Any benefits are likely modest and slow to appear.

Takeaway:
✅ Safe when diluted properly
🚫 Results vary; not a miracle oil

Pro tip: Use a few drops mixed with carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba), and avoid applying it directly to the scalp.

---

🔄 4. Skin Cycling (Rating: 10/10)

The trend: Rotating skincare actives—using retinoids one night, exfoliants the next, and recovery products afterward—to balance results and barrier protection.

What the expert says:
Dr Waraich calls this “the most balanced routine” for active users. It allows skin time to heal and rebuild, preventing irritation from overuse of potent ingredients.

Takeaway:
✅ Effective for all skin types
✅ Scientifically sound and dermatologist-approved

Pro tip: A simple 4-night cycle:

• Night 1: Exfoliate (AHA/BHA)
• Night 2: Retinoid
• Night 3 & 4: Recovery (hydration + barrier support)

---

🎭 5. Face Taping (Rating: 0/10)

The trend: Applying adhesive tapes to “train” skin and reduce wrinkles overnight.

What the expert says:
Dr Waraich strongly advises against it. The adhesive can irritate, tear delicate facial skin, and damage the protective barrier — potentially accelerating aging instead of reversing it.

Takeaway:
🚫 Gimmick, not science
🚫 May cause irritation or micro-tears

Pro tip: Instead, invest in gentle facial massages or retinol-based products to improve firmness safely.

---

🌾 6. Rice Water for Skin (Rating: 6/10)

The trend: Using water from soaked or boiled rice as a natural toner or rinse.

What the expert says:
Rice water contains antioxidants and soothing compounds. Though scientific data is limited, many find it calming and hydrating — especially for sensitive or irritated skin.

Takeaway:
✅ Gentle and safe for most skin types
🚫 Limited scientific backing

Pro tip: Refrigerate rice water for 24 hours and use it as a toner or mask base for a refreshing DIY treatment.

---

🌟 Final Verdict: Expert Summary

Trend	Rating	Verdict
Ice Face Dipping	5/10	Refreshing but temporary
Slugging	7/10	Great for dry skin
Rosemary Oil for Hair	4/10	Mild results
Skin Cycling	10/10	Scientifically sound
Face Taping	0/10	Avoid completely
Rice Water	6/10	Gentle, but limited proof

---

👩‍⚕️ Expert’s Closing Thoughts

She also advises consulting a certified dermatologist before introducing new actives or DIY remedies, especially if you have sensitive, acne-prone, or reactive skin.