TikTok & Other BS Skincare Trends We Need to Leave in 2024

TikTok – the land of viral dances, oddly specific algorithms, and skincare advice that makes dermatologists weep. While the platform has introduced us to a few gems, it’s also been the birthplace of some truly horrendous trends that your skin wishes you’d never tried. As we step into 2025, let’s leave these skincare sins in the past and embrace a smarter, simpler approach to active skincare. No, you don’t need 12 products layered like a wedding cake or that DIY mask made of glue and glitter. You just need the best face cleanser for your skin type, a solid antioxidant, a vitamin-packed morning serum, and a killer retinal night cream to keep things under control while you rest.

Trend #1: The Sunscreen Contour

Who could forget the genius idea of applying sunscreen only to the high points of your face to achieve a “natural contour”? Spoiler alert: this is a one-way ticket to uneven skin tone and premature ageing. The Australian sun isn’t here to play – it’s here to scorch. Instead of experimenting with your SPF, slather it evenly across your face and neck. Pair it with an antioxidant serum rich in vitamin C in the morning for ultimate protection. Trust us, “natural contour” isn’t worth the risk.

Trend #2: Over-Exfoliating

Remember when everyone on social media was scrubbing their faces raw with exfoliators every night? Exfoliation is a key part of active skincare but overdoing it can damage your skin barrier and leave you with redness, irritation, and a whole lot of regret. Instead, opt for a gentle chemical exfoliant with glycolic or lactic acid a few times a week, followed by a hydrating serum to keep your skin happy. Oh, and don’t forget the best face cleanser to keep things balanced.

Trend #3: DIY Skincare That Should Stay in the Kitchen

From rubbing lemons on your face to slathering it in honey and cinnamon, TikTok has made kitchens the new skincare labs. The problem? Lemon is too acidic for your skin, and honey, while soothing, won’t unclog your pores or fight wrinkles. Stick to evidence-based skincare products formulated by experts – a retinal night cream will do more for your skin than any pantry concoction ever could.

Trend #4: Slugging for Everyone

While slugging (coating your face in petroleum jelly) works wonders for severely dry skin, it’s not for everyone. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, this trend can lead to breakouts and clogged pores. Instead, keep your routine tailored to your skin type: a hydrating moisturiser, a glycolic cleanser to keep your skin fresh, and a targeted retinal (not retinol) cream to repair overnight.

Your Skincare Glow-Up for 2025

Instead of chasing viral trends that leave your skin crying for help, stick to a simple and effective routine. Here’s what it should look like:

  1. Cleanse and Prep: Start with an active face cleanser that suits your skin type. It’s the foundation of every good skincare routine. Glycolic acid and lactic acid are superstars here. After cleansing, use a rich morning serum with vitamins C and E for the best results.
  2. Protect: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and pair it with antioxidants to combat environmental damage.
  3. Repair: At night, use a retinal cream to fight fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture.

Consistency beats fads every time.

The Glow-Up We All Need

2024 gave us plenty of laughs and a few skincare nightmares, but it’s time to move forward. By focusing on active skincare, ditching the gimmicks, and embracing products that actually work—like the best face cleanser to keep your skin fresh and a retinal night cream to repair and renew overnight—you’ll set yourself up for your best skin yet in 2025. Forget the trends and stick to a routine that’s simple, effective, and (most importantly) kind to your skin.