FYI, Applying Pickles Directly To Your Face May Do More Damage Than Good
Engaging in skincare regimens is the first step to self-care for many people. When getting introduced to taking care of your skin, it is common to also be introduced to old wives' tales and beliefs. From popping pimples to using toothpaste as spot treatments, there has been a myriad of myths and beliefs that at one point were thought to be holy-grail skincare tips. Now, with the rise of social media, there is a new generation of DIY skincare trends. While some might look at these as cheap ways to get glowing skin, skin professionals tend to think otherwise.
There are many people who are looking for the trend that will give us glowing skin in 2023, however, some have been taking it too far. The latest TikTok craze involves using pickle juice instead of toners and masks to get amazing-looking skin. While some might think it is promising, this could be a natural disaster for your skin.
Pickle juice as skincare
On TikTok, creators have begun using pickle juice or brine and applying it directly to the face. The goal of the DIY trend is to use it in place of a toner, makeup remover, and exfoliant. There is a belief that with continued use you should experience less acne and an overall glowing complexion. TikTok users have found themselves rubbing pickles directly on their faces or even making a mask out of the juice. Dr. Christine Ko told the Daily Mail that pickles contain lactic acid, an exfoliant known to remove dead skin. While this seems like a great substitute for buying expensive skincare, pickle juice does not come without its own set of risks.
According to skincare expert Thom Watson while talking to Indy100, applying pickle juice can cause irritation and redness due to inflammation. It is probably safe to say that pickles are one of the skincare products that aren't worth the hype.
What to do instead
Instead of applying pickle juice to the skin, Thom Watson recommended drinking the pickle juice instead. "[Pickles and brine] are high in lactobacillus, a very powerful probiotic that is highly beneficial to the skin as well as other antioxidants and other goodies that do the gut, body, and skin well," he told Indy100. He went on to explain that with continued use, the pickle juice will help your gut, which in turn should also improve the skin.
If drinking pickle juice is not for you, consider incorporating lactic acid into your skincare routine. According to CeraVe, not only does it help with exfoliation but it's also perfect for helping to hold in moisture. Make sure to do a patch test before applying it over the skin in order to avoid sensitivities. Also, it is best to incorporate sunscreen into your routine since your skin is more vulnerable.