There are a whole list of skin and hair complaints that send many people running to social media to try and ‘fix’.
Hacks to help issues like spots, acne, hyperpigmentation, dry or irritated skin, dark under-eye circles and wrinkles are almost constantly trending, as well as tricks for hair problems such as greasiness, hair loss, and lacklustre locks.
However, the world of social media is murky, as both professionals and amateurs share their advice and personal experiences, leading to a confusing tangle of beauty trends – some of which are scientifically supported, and some that are definitely not.
Dr Aamna Adel, a London-based dermatologist registrar with expertise in skin and haircare, has gained a loyal fanbase on social media of 1.7 million followers. She uses TikTok to impart her knowledge and tips on a range of skin and hair concerns – and these have her professional knowledge informing them.
In one of her latest videos, Dr Adel, standing in a bathroom, lists several trends in text around her that she advises against.
A famous Tyra Banks quote plays over the footage, taken from an episode of America’s Next Top Model where Tyra famously berated contestant Tiffany: “Stop it! I have never before in my life yelled at a girl like this”. The trends read:
- Sleeping with wet hair
- Using beef tallow as a moisturiser
- Heatless curling rods
- Hair training
- Failing to use tinted SPF to combat pigmentation
- Engaging in double cleansing routines in the morning
In the caption of her video, the doctor wrote: “PSA [Public Service Announcement] from a derm: just please stop”.
The comment section buzzed with activity as people shared their opinions, with some supporting the dermatologist’s advice, while others defended their various skincare experiences and perspectives.
One individual shared: “Beef tallow cleared my skin and actually keeps it fully hydrated through winter – I use one whipped with Manuka honey. Genuinely curious if you have any thoughts on this?”. Tallow is the rendered hard fat from around the kidneys of a cow, and the trending idea for its use in skincare is that it protects the skin barrier. There is limited scientific evidence for this.
One user remarked: “Beef tallow trend is insane to me”, attaching a crying face emoji, though someone else had a different take: “Beef tallow is the only thing I will use now” and another person expressed frustration: “Omg the beef tallow thing is making me so angry”. There were several who said they concurred with all of Dr Adel’s suggestions except for her views on beef tallow, which they swear by.
People were also quick to agree with the double cleansing idea. One amused commenter wrote: “Double cleansing in the AM? Are they rolling around in the dirt? ” Another was perplexed: “Now WHO is double cleansing in the morning… Do y’all sleep outdoors?!”.
In another post with just under 190,000 views, Dr Adel suggests her favourite barrier protecting creams, which might be preferable to beef tallow, especially since many users have been put off by the meat smell coming from the fat. Dr Adel’s suggestions include La Roche-Posay Cicaplast balm and, interestingly, Aveeno Baby Daily Care – which is a nappy cream.
When considering new skincare products, conducting a patch test is always advisable. Place a small amount of the product on an area such as the inner fold of the elbow or wrist, leaving it for 24 hours to check for allergic reactions or sensitivities.
Should you notice undesirable effects like itchiness, burning, or peeling skin, immediately discontinue use of the product.