Separating Skincare Science from Viral Sensations: A Dermatologist's Guide to TikTok Trends

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights:
2. Introduction:
3. The Perils of Sunscreen Contouring: A Dangerous Illusion
4. The Reality of At-Home Microneedling: A Risky Proposition
5. Face Taping: A Temporary Illusion with Long-Term Consequences
6. DIY Acid Peels: A Cautious Green Light for the Right Ingredients
7. Skin Flooding: When More is Not Better for Hydration
8. Beyond the Hype: Building Sustainable Skin Health
9. FAQ:

Key Highlights:

• Many viral skincare trends, from sunscreen contouring to face taping, are debunked by dermatologists as ineffective or potentially harmful, emphasizing that healthy skin is built on understanding and protection, not quick fixes.
• While professional microneedling offers benefits, at-home versions often carry significant risks of infection and scarring without delivering comparable results due to insufficient needle depth.
• DIY acid peels, particularly those using mild lactic acid from natural sources, are one of the few at-home treatments that receive a cautious nod from experts, provided users prioritize patch testing and understand the risks of stronger acids.

Introduction:

The allure of a quick fix for complexion woes has never been stronger, fueled by an endless stream of beauty hacks circulating on social media platforms. With a personalized feed delivering seemingly innovative solutions from self-proclaimed experts, it is increasingly easy to bypass professional advice in favor of viral trends. The sheer volume of at-home beauty tools and readily available online tutorials can be overwhelming, prompting many to experiment with practices like sunscreen contouring, face-taping, or even DIY acid peels, often with little understanding of the underlying science.

This proliferation of unverified beauty claims necessitates a critical examination. The fundamental question for consumers is not just whether these trends offer instant gratification, but whether they are genuinely beneficial or, more critically, harmful in the long run. As Dr. Suhail Alam of Aventus Clinic points out, much of what appears as innovation online is simply "poor science repackaged in a trendier format." Building healthy skin, he emphasizes, transcends fleeting fads; it requires a deep understanding of skin function, diligent protection against damage, and a respectful approach to its natural processes. To navigate this complex landscape, the insights of accredited dermatologists become indispensable. Their expertise serves as a vital filter, distinguishing between practices rooted in scientific understanding and those that are merely passing online sensations. This article delves into the professional perspectives of Canadian dermatologist Dr. Sandy Skotnicki, host of the Skin To It podcast, and other experts from Aventus Clinic, to scrutinize popular viral skincare hacks, revealing which ones offer genuine benefits and which should be unequivocally avoided.

The Perils of Sunscreen Contouring: A Dangerous Illusion

The concept of "sunscreen contouring" emerged from a desire to achieve a naturally sculpted facial appearance without makeup, using varying applications of sunscreen to dictate where the sun would tan the skin. The premise involves applying sunscreen only to specific high points of the face, such as the bridge of the nose, forehead, and cheekbones, while leaving other areas exposed to achieve a darker, "contoured" effect. This practice gained notoriety following a high-profile incident in 2021, where a celebrity openly discussed her minimalist approach to sunscreen application, only dabbing it on select areas. While the idea of a sun-kissed, chiseled look without the need for bronzer or contour sticks might sound appealing in theory, dermatologists are united in their condemnation of this trend.

Dr. Skotnicki is unequivocal: "Sunscreen is not makeup, it’s protection against UV damage and skin cancer. In Canada, it is considered a drug." Her statement underscores a critical distinction that many viral trends fail to acknowledge: the primary purpose of sunscreen is not cosmetic enhancement but a vital health intervention. The deliberate non-application of sunscreen to specific facial areas to encourage tanning is, by definition, intentional sun damage. Tanning is the skin's defense mechanism against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, signaling cellular damage. Repeated or prolonged exposure without adequate protection leads to a cascade of negative effects that extend far beyond a temporary tan.

The consequences of intentional sun exposure are well-documented and severe. Premature aging is one of the most visible effects, manifesting as fine lines, wrinkles, and a loss of skin elasticity. UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for maintaining skin's firmness and smooth texture. Sunspots, also known as age spots or liver spots, are another common outcome, appearing as hyperpigmented areas resulting from an overproduction of melanin in response to sun exposure. Beyond cosmetic concerns, the most significant risk associated with unprotected sun exposure is the increased likelihood of developing skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and the highly aggressive melanoma.

Dr. Alam reinforces this grave warning: "No tan is worth that risk — and once the damage is done, it’s extremely difficult to reverse." This highlights the irreversible nature of much sun-induced damage. While certain cosmetic procedures can mitigate some signs of photoaging, the underlying cellular damage, and increased risk of malignancy persist. The ephemeral aesthetic benefit of a "sunscreen-contoured" face pales in comparison to the long-term health risks and the arduous, often incomplete, process of attempting to repair sun-damaged skin.

Instead of resorting to dangerous sun exposure, dermatologists advocate for safer, well-established methods to achieve facial sculpting. The use of bronzers and contour sticks, applied strategically with makeup, offers the desired chiseled effect without exposing the skin to harmful UV radiation. These products provide immediate, customizable, and risk-free results, allowing individuals to experiment with different looks while preserving their skin's health and integrity. The consensus among experts is clear: when it comes to sun protection, full and diligent application is paramount, not selective omission for a fleeting aesthetic.

The Reality of At-Home Microneedling: A Risky Proposition

Microneedling has gained considerable traction as a clinical procedure for its ability to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of scars. This procedure involves using a device with fine needles to create microscopic punctures in the skin, triggering the body's natural wound-healing process, which in turn boosts collagen and elastin synthesis. Given its promising results in a professional setting, the emergence of at-home microneedling devices, such as pens and dermal rollers, has naturally piqued consumer interest. The allure is undeniable: the promise of professional-grade results from the comfort and convenience of one's bathroom vanity. However, dermatologists caution that the reality of at-home microneedling falls far short of its clinical counterpart and carries significant risks.

The primary difference between professional and at-home microneedling lies in the control over needle depth and sterility. In a clinical environment, trained professionals use devices with adjustable needle lengths, allowing them to precisely target specific skin depths based on the individual's concerns and skin type. This precision is crucial for achieving optimal results while minimizing adverse effects. Furthermore, professional settings adhere to stringent sterilization protocols, using single-use, medical-grade needles and maintaining a sterile field to prevent infection.

At home, these critical controls are often absent. Users may lack the necessary training to select the appropriate needle depth, leading to either superficial treatments that yield minimal results or, more dangerously, excessive penetration that can cause significant damage. The experts at Aventus Clinic highlight the vastly increased risk of infection and scarring when microneedling is performed outside a controlled clinical environment. Improper sterilization of at-home devices, re-using needles, or using devices that are difficult to clean thoroughly can introduce bacteria and other pathogens into the skin, leading to infections, inflammation, and potentially permanent scarring. Moreover, untrained individuals may apply excessive pressure or use improper techniques, further increasing the risk of skin trauma.

Dr. Skotnicki offers a cautious caveat for those determined to try at-home microneedling: "If you must try it at home, stick to devices with very short needles (<0.3 mm) that don’t penetrate deep enough to draw blood, and always disinfect thoroughly." Her advice is aimed at minimizing harm, recognizing that such shallow penetration will only yield mild results. The fundamental principle of microneedling is that deeper penetration, within safe parameters, correlates with greater stimulation of collagen and elastin. At-home kits, particularly those designed for consumer safety, are deliberately limited in their needle depth to prevent severe injury. Consequently, the collagen and elastin stimulation achieved with these safer at-home devices is significantly less than what is possible with professional treatments. This often leads to user disappointment, as the mild results fail to meet the expectations set by clinical outcomes.

For anyone seeking substantial improvements in skin texture, scar reduction, or significant collagen induction, the professional setting remains the gold standard. Dermatologists and licensed aestheticians are equipped with the knowledge, advanced devices, and sterile techniques necessary to perform microneedling safely and effectively. They can assess individual skin conditions, determine appropriate needle depths, and manage any potential complications, ensuring the best possible outcome with minimized risk. Investing in professional treatments, while seemingly more costly upfront, often proves to be more cost-effective in the long run by providing superior results and avoiding the complications and potential long-term damage associated with improper at-home attempts.

Face Taping: A Temporary Illusion with Long-Term Consequences

The viral trend of "face taping" suggests a seemingly simple solution to combat wrinkles and fine lines, particularly on the forehead, cheeks, and under-eye areas. The practice involves applying adhesive tape to specific areas of the face overnight, with the belief that immobilizing facial muscles will prevent the formation or deepening of expression lines. The promise is a smoother, more youthful complexion upon waking. However, dermatologists are quick to dismiss this hack, labeling it as a "classic case of short-term gain, long-term harm."

The premise behind face taping is that by physically restricting muscle movement, the skin will not crease, thus preventing wrinkles. While it is true that repeated facial expressions contribute to dynamic wrinkles (lines that appear with movement) which can eventually become static wrinkles (lines visible even at rest), the mechanical action of tape offers only a superficial and temporary solution. Dr. Skotnicki explains, "The idea is that immobilizing facial muscles overnight will prevent expression lines — but tape doesn’t address the deeper structural changes that cause wrinkles over time." Wrinkles are not solely a result of muscle movement; they are also influenced by a complex interplay of factors including collagen and elastin degradation, loss of subcutaneous fat, gravitational pull, and chronic sun exposure. Tape cannot reverse or prevent these underlying biological processes.

Upon waking, individuals who have used face tape might observe a temporary smoothing of the skin. This effect, however, is not due to any fundamental change in the skin's structure or a true reduction in wrinkles. As Dr. Skotnicki notes, this temporary improvement is primarily "just from mild swelling and compression." The tape can create a slight edema (swelling) and physical compression that temporarily plumps out the skin, making lines appear less prominent. This effect is short-lived and disappears as the skin returns to its normal state within hours.

More concerning than the lack of long-term benefits are the potential negative consequences of chronic face taping. The skin on the face, especially around the eyes and on the forehead, is delicate. Repeated application and removal of adhesive tape can cause mechanical trauma, leading to irritation, redness, and even skin stripping, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin. Furthermore, constant stretching and pulling of the skin, even subtle, over prolonged periods could theoretically contribute to a loss of skin elasticity and promote faster sagging down the line. While definitive long-term studies on the direct correlation between face taping and accelerated sagging are limited, the principle of repeated mechanical stress on delicate tissues suggests a plausible mechanism for harm.

Dermatologists advocate for established, evidence-based strategies for wrinkle prevention and management. At the forefront of these recommendations are daily sunscreen use, which protects against UV-induced collagen and elastin breakdown, and the regular incorporation of retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) into a skincare regimen. Retinoids are scientifically proven to stimulate collagen production, accelerate cell turnover, and improve skin texture, effectively addressing the "deeper structural changes that cause wrinkles over time." Beyond topical treatments, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet, adequate hydration, sufficient sleep, and avoiding smoking, all contribute significantly to overall skin health and can help mitigate the signs of aging.

In sum, face taping offers a fleeting illusion of smoother skin based on temporary physical manipulation, while carrying the risk of skin irritation and potentially contributing to long-term elasticity issues. For genuine and lasting wrinkle prevention, dermatologists consistently recommend scientifically validated approaches that support the skin's intrinsic health and regenerative capacities.

DIY Acid Peels: A Cautious Green Light for the Right Ingredients

Among the myriad of viral skincare trends, DIY acid peels stand out as one of the few at-home treatments that receive a cautious nod of approval from dermatologists, albeit with significant caveats. The concept involves using naturally occurring acids to exfoliate the skin, promoting cell turnover and revealing a brighter, smoother complexion. The key distinction here lies in the type and concentration of the acid used.

Dr. Skotnicki specifically highlights lactic acid from natural sources like yogurt or milk as a generally safe option for at-home use. Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its gentle exfoliating properties. It works by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to slough off more easily. Beyond exfoliation, lactic acid also has humectant properties, meaning it attracts and binds moisture to the skin, making it a suitable choice for individuals seeking both exfoliation and hydration. As Dr. Skotnicki notes, "Lactic acid has been used for centuries and can gently exfoliate and brighten skin without the risks of stronger, professional-grade acids." This historical context underscores its long-standing and relatively safe application in skincare.

Beyond lactic acid, Dr. Skotnicki also suggests other safe, homemade options such as DIY fruit enzyme masks. Ingredients like papaya contain papain, and pineapple contains bromelain, both proteolytic enzymes that can gently digest dead skin cells on the surface. These enzymes offer a very mild form of exfoliation, making them suitable for sensitive skin or those new to chemical exfoliation. Diluted apple cider vinegar masks are another option she mentions. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which can also provide mild exfoliation and has antimicrobial properties. However, dilution is crucial, as undiluted apple cider vinegar can be too acidic and cause irritation.

Despite this cautious approval, dermatologists universally emphasize the importance of proceeding with extreme caution and always performing a patch test before applying any DIY acid peel to the entire face. A patch test involves applying a small amount of the prepared mixture to an inconspicuous area of skin (e.g., behind the ear or on the inner forearm) and waiting 24-48 hours to observe for any adverse reactions like redness, itching, burning, or swelling. This crucial step can prevent widespread irritation or damage.

The experts at Aventus Clinic issue a stern warning regarding the misuse of potent acids at home. While mild acids like lactic acid from food sources are relatively safe, consumers might be tempted to experiment with stronger acids (e.g., high concentrations of glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or trichloroacetic acid) or use them improperly. "At-home misuse of potent acids can easily lead to chemical burns, long-term hyperpigmentation, and scarring," they caution. Professional chemical peels use medical-grade acids in carefully controlled concentrations and pH levels, applied by trained professionals who understand skin physiology and can manage potential complications. Attempting to replicate such treatments at home with unknown concentrations or improper application techniques can result in severe skin damage that may require extensive medical intervention to correct, if reversible at all.

Moreover, the efficacy of DIY peels, even with approved ingredients, will generally be milder than professional treatments. While a homemade lactic acid mask can offer gentle exfoliation and brightening, it will not deliver the transformative results that a dermatologist-administered peel can provide for more significant concerns like deep wrinkles, stubborn hyperpigmentation, or severe acne scarring. The benefit of DIY options lies in their accessibility and gentleness for mild maintenance, not in their ability to address complex skin issues.

In conclusion, while a select few DIY acid peels utilizing mild, naturally derived acids can be a safe addition to a skincare routine for gentle exfoliation and brightening, they require careful execution and a thorough understanding of their limitations. The overarching message from dermatologists is to prioritize safety, patch test diligently, and recognize that any attempt to replicate professional-grade treatments at home with stronger acids poses a significant and avoidable risk to skin health. For more impactful and targeted results, professional guidance and clinical treatments remain the safest and most effective path.

Skin Flooding: When More is Not Better for Hydration

The "skin flooding" trend, which gained significant traction on social media, proposes a method of intensely hydrating the skin by layering five or more hydrating products. The idea is to "flood" the skin with moisture, ostensibly providing unparalleled hydration, particularly appealing to individuals with dry skin. This trend suggests that by applying multiple serums, essences, and moisturizers in succession, the skin's barrier function would be optimized, leading to a plump, dewy, and highly moisturized complexion. However, dermatologists express strong reservations about this approach, arguing that excessive layering can be counterproductive and even detrimental to skin health.

The core principle behind healthy skin hydration involves providing the skin with humectants (ingredients that attract water, like hyaluronic acid or glycerin), emollients (ingredients that smooth and soften the skin, like ceramides or fatty acids), and occlusives (ingredients that form a protective barrier to prevent water loss, like petrolatum or squalane). A well-formulated skincare routine typically incorporates a balanced combination of these elements. Skin flooding, however, often encourages the indiscriminate layering of numerous products without consideration for their individual compositions or their combined effect on the skin.

The Aventus Clinic dermatologists succinctly summarize the issue: "Hydration is vital, but overwhelming the skin with too many layers can trap dirt, clog pores, and lead to breakouts and irritation." When too many products are applied, especially those with thicker textures or occlusive properties, they can create an impenetrable film on the skin's surface. While this might initially feel hydrating, it can inadvertently trap dead skin cells, environmental pollutants, and even bacteria beneath the layers. This occlusive environment can disrupt the skin's natural exfoliation process and its ability to "breathe," leading to clogged pores. Clogged pores are a primary precursor to various skin concerns, including blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory acne breakouts.

Furthermore, applying an excessive number of products, each with its own array of ingredients, increases the likelihood of ingredient interactions or sensitivities. Fragrances, preservatives, or active ingredients from different products might react negatively with each other or overwhelm the skin's tolerance threshold, leading to irritation, redness, and contact dermatitis. For individuals with sensitive or reactive skin, this increased product load can be particularly problematic, triggering flare-ups or exacerbating existing conditions.

Dr. Skotnicki issues a specific warning for those prone to acne, stating that skin flooding can create an "overly occlusive environment" that triggers even more breakouts. Acne-prone skin already has a tendency for clogged pores and an imbalance in sebum production. Adding multiple layers of hydrating and potentially occlusive products can exacerbate this by further sealing the pores, promoting the growth of P. acnes bacteria, and increasing inflammation. Instead of improving acne, skin flooding can create a vicious cycle of breakouts and irritation.

The consensus among experts is that "more product doesn’t necessarily mean better results." Instead, they advocate for "targeted, balanced hydration tailored to your skin’s needs." This approach emphasizes quality over quantity. A simple, well-thought-out routine that includes a gentle cleanser, a single hydrating serum (if needed), and a suitable moisturizer designed for one's specific skin type is often far more effective than an elaborate, multi-step regimen. Understanding one's skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive) and its current needs is crucial. For example, dry skin might benefit from richer moisturizers with ceramides, while oily skin might require lighter, gel-based formulas.

In essence, while adequate hydration is foundational to healthy skin, the "skin flooding" trend misinterprets the mechanism of effective hydration. It promotes an unnecessary and potentially harmful overload of products, rather than a strategic approach to support the skin barrier. For all skin types, dermatologists advise against drowning the skin in an abundance of products, advocating instead for a minimalist, informed, and targeted approach to achieve and maintain optimal skin hydration and health.

Beyond the Hype: Building Sustainable Skin Health

The relentless cycle of viral skincare trends on social media platforms presents a fascinating but often perilous landscape for consumers. From the seemingly innocuous to the outright dangerous, these trends promise rapid transformations, often appealing to the desire for quick fixes. However, as evidenced by the expert opinions on sunscreen contouring, at-home microneedling, face taping, and skin flooding, the reality often diverges sharply from the online hype. The overarching message from dermatological professionals is clear: genuine skin health is a marathon, not a sprint, built on consistent, evidence-based practices rather than fleeting fads.

Sunscreen contouring, a stark example, highlights a fundamental misunderstanding of a critical health tool. Sunscreen is a medical necessity, a drug in many jurisdictions, designed to protect against the devastating effects of UV radiation, including premature aging and skin cancer. Using it as a cosmetic tool to encourage tanning is not merely misguided; it is a direct assault on skin integrity, inviting irreversible damage. This trend underscores the danger of conflating protective measures with aesthetic whims, a common pitfall in the social media beauty sphere. The pursuit of a temporary aesthetic should never compromise long-term health.

Similarly, the enthusiasm for at-home microneedling often overlooks the critical nuances of a procedure that, in professional hands, can yield significant benefits. The controlled environment of a clinic, with sterile equipment and precise needle depth, mitigates risks and maximizes efficacy. At-home versions, by contrast, frequently fall short on results due to safety-mandated shallow penetration, while simultaneously elevating the risk of infection, scarring, and irritation. This discrepancy illustrates a broader issue: the democratization of complex medical procedures without commensurate education or safety protocols can lead to consumer harm.

Face taping, with its promise of instant wrinkle reduction, is another prime example of a trend offering superficial temporary effects while potentially causing long-term damage. The mechanical action of tape cannot address the deeper, biological processes of skin aging. Instead, repeated physical manipulation and adhesion can irritate sensitive skin, potentially compromising its barrier function and elasticity over time. This trend reinforces the notion that true anti-aging strategies involve supporting the skin's natural regenerative processes through scientifically validated ingredients and lifestyle choices, rather than relying on physical constraints.

Even skin flooding, which appears benign and even beneficial on the surface, can be counterproductive. While hydration is paramount, the belief that "more is better" with skincare products can lead to an overwhelmed skin barrier, clogged pores, and increased breakouts, particularly for those with acne-prone skin. This trend highlights the importance of understanding ingredient interactions and the concept of product overload. A minimalist, tailored approach, focusing on a few high-quality, complementary products, often yields superior results to an elaborate, multi-layered regimen.

Amidst these cautionary tales, DIY acid peels, when executed with careful consideration for the type and concentration of acid, offer a rare glimmer of dermatologist approval for at-home experimentation. The endorsement of mild lactic acid and fruit enzymes underscores a critical principle: natural ingredients can be effective, but their potency and potential for harm still require respect and diligent patch testing. This exception emphasizes that not all "DIY" is inherently bad, but success hinges on informed choices and a deep understanding of the active ingredients.

The underlying message from dermatologists like Dr. Skotnicki and the experts at Aventus Clinic is consistent: healthy skin is a reflection of informed choices, consistent care, and a protective mindset. It is built not on viral hacks but on understanding skin physiology, protecting it from environmental damage (especially sun exposure), and respecting its natural rhythms. This entails a daily commitment to sunscreen, the strategic use of proven active ingredients like retinoids, a gentle and consistent cleansing routine, and adequate hydration. Beyond topical applications, a holistic approach encompassing nutrition, stress management, and sufficient sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining skin vitality.

The allure of social media beauty trends is powerful, promising instant gratification and insider secrets. However, the path to genuinely healthy, resilient skin is paved with patience, scientific understanding, and professional guidance. Before succumbing to the next viral sensation, consumers are urged to pause, question, and consult with qualified dermatologists. Their expertise serves as an invaluable compass, guiding individuals away from potential harm and towards practices that truly foster long-term skin health and radiance. Ultimately, true skincare innovation lies not in novelty for novelty's sake, but in applying established scientific principles with precision and consistency.

FAQ:

Q1: Is it ever safe to try viral skincare trends from social media?

A1: While some viral trends might be relatively harmless or even offer minor benefits (like mild DIY acid peels with proper precautions), many are ineffective, potentially harmful, or even dangerous. Dermatologists strongly advise caution and recommend consulting a professional before trying any new trend, especially if it involves strong ingredients, invasive techniques, or claims that sound too good to be true. The best approach is to prioritize evidence-based skincare practices.

Q2: Why is sunscreen contouring considered so dangerous?

A2: Sunscreen contouring is dangerous because it intentionally leaves parts of your skin unprotected from harmful UV radiation to achieve a tan. Tanning is a sign of sun damage, and this practice significantly increases your risk of premature aging (wrinkles, sunspots) and, most importantly, various forms of skin cancer, including melanoma. Sunscreen's primary purpose is protection, not cosmetic sculpting.

Q3: Can I get the same results from at-home microneedling as I would from a professional treatment?

A3: No, at-home microneedling devices cannot deliver the same results as professional treatments. Professional microneedling is performed by trained experts using sterile equipment with controlled needle depths, allowing for significant collagen and elastin stimulation. At-home devices typically have much shorter needles (<0.3 mm) for safety, meaning they cannot penetrate deep enough to achieve comparable results. Furthermore, at-home use carries a much higher risk of infection, irritation, and scarring due to improper technique or lack of sterility.

Q4: Does face taping really prevent wrinkles?

A4: Face taping does not prevent wrinkles in the long term. While it might temporarily smooth the skin upon waking due to mild swelling and compression, it does not address the deeper structural changes that cause wrinkles. Repeated application and removal of tape can also cause skin irritation, redness, and potentially contribute to a loss of skin elasticity over time. Dermatologists recommend proven methods like sunscreen, retinoids, and healthy lifestyle habits for wrinkle prevention.

Q5: Are all DIY acid peels unsafe?

A5: Not all DIY acid peels are unsafe, but extreme caution is advised. Dermatologists like Dr. Skotnicki indicate that mild acids derived from natural sources, such as lactic acid from yogurt or fruit enzymes from papaya and pineapple, can be safe for gentle exfoliation at home. However, it is crucial to always perform a patch test first. Misuse of stronger, professional-grade acids at home can lead to severe chemical burns, hyperpigmentation, and scarring. It's vital to know the concentration and type of acid you are using.

Q6: Why is "skin flooding" not recommended, especially for acne-prone skin?

A6: While hydration is essential, "skin flooding"—layering five or more hydrating products—is generally not recommended because it can overwhelm the skin. Excessive product layering can trap dirt, clog pores, and lead to breakouts and irritation. For acne-prone skin, this creates an overly occlusive environment that can exacerbate existing breakouts and trigger new ones by sealing in bacteria and disrupting the skin's natural balance. A targeted, balanced hydration routine with fewer, well-chosen products is more effective.