Oct 28, 2023
By: NewsPointSkin fasting, a popular TikTok trend, involves temporarily abstaining from certain skincare products, especially those containing harsh ingredients like retinol and acids, with the goal of improving skin health.
In her viral video, Maliha Ihenacho recommends taking a break from using all skincare products for 24 hours once or twice a week, allowing the skin's natural sebum to take over and restore balance and protection.
The practice of skin fasting is designed to strengthen the skin's natural protective barrier while also assisting in identifying products that may be causing skin irritation or breakouts.
People dealing with skin conditions like eczema and rosacea, or those relying on prescription skincare products, should exercise caution and avoid completely discontinuing their necessary treatments during skin fasting.
It's crucial to continue using sunscreen during skin fasting, as neglecting sun protection, particularly after applying retinol, can pose risks to skin health and increase the chances of sun damage.
TikTok's influence has propelled the #skincarefasting trend, with videos garnering over 350,000 views and making skin fasting a widely recognized term in the beauty and skincare community.
Dermatologists' opinions on the benefits of skin fasting vary, but there is consensus that taking breaks from potent ingredients like retinoids can be advantageous for the skin.
The excessive use of powerful skincare ingredients such as retinoids and exfoliating acids can compromise the skin's natural protective barrier, rendering it more susceptible to issues like sensitivity, breakouts, and premature ageing.
Dr. Whitney Bowe offers an alternative approach, recommending "recovery nights" where individuals take a break from harsh skincare products and use only a gentle cleanser, Vitamin C serum, and sunscreen, promoting skin recovery.
If contemplating skin fasting, it's advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional, especially if you are currently using medications or have an established skincare routine, to ensure your skin's health and safety.
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