Expert dermatologists share essential tips for nurturing and maintaining healthy skin.
ROSEMONT, Ill., Oct. 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The surge of beauty influencers and viral skin care routines on social media platforms is profoundly influencing public perceptions and practices surrounding skincare. Trending techniques such as the coveted glass-skin effect, intricate Russian manicures, and at-home red light therapy sessions have captivated audiences worldwide, but how do these practices stand up to scrutiny regarding their safety and efficacy? As National Healthy Skin Month approaches in November, board-certified dermatologists are stepping forward to clarify the real impacts of these popular skin care fads.
“Social media has definitely made people more aware of the importance of skin care and maintaining healthy skin,” commented Dr. Samantha Karlin, a board-certified dermatologist practicing in Covington, LA. “However, it’s essential to keep in mind that not every trend aligns with individual skin types. In fact, some methods could be detrimental and lead to skin damage.”
Russian Manicures
One nail-care trend gaining traction on TikTok is the controversial Russian manicure, as highlighted by Dr. Karlin.
Characterized by its omission of the traditional soaking process, the Russian manicure employs an electric file to immediately clean, shape, and groom both nails and cuticles. The technique focuses on removing surplus skin around the nail and cuticle to enhance nail length visually and to strategically place polish beneath the cuticle, aiming for a longer-lasting finish.
“I urge my patients to avoid this manicure technique because the cuticle serves as a vital protective barrier, and should not be compromised,” Dr. Karlin cautioned. “The removal of the cuticle heightens susceptibility to infections such as bacterial and fungal invasions. We frequently see patients develop paronychia, a condition marked by inflammation, pain, and discoloration surrounding the nail post-Russian manicure.”
Glass Skin
The glass skin phenomenon, which has its roots in Korean beauty culture, aims to provide a smooth, clear complexion with an almost pore-less appearance, according to Dr. Karlin. The secret lies in relentless hydration, along with consistent skin cell turnover to reduce the visibility of fine lines.
Achieving this look involves a meticulous regimen that includes a gentle cleanser, a hydrating serum, a rich moisturizer, and regular exfoliation, while safeguarding the skin with an appropriate broad-spectrum sunscreen.
“Certain components of the glass skin trend, such as diligent moisturizing and the application of a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, can lead to valuable skin care improvements,” Dr. Karlin acknowledged. “Nonetheless, the glass skin effect isn’t feasible for everyone, and excessive layering of products may result in clogged pores, irritation, and breakouts. Moderation is key, and it’s wise to consult with a dermatologist for a personalized skincare roadmap tailored to your specific skin type.”
Red Light Therapy
Utilizing red or near-infrared light, red light therapy addresses a variety of skin challenges including wrinkles, age spots, sagging, hair loss, and acne, explained Dr. Amit Om, a board-certified dermatologist from Charlotte, North Carolina. The recent rise of at-home red light devices has made this treatment accessible, as influencers promote the use of masks, panels, and wands designed to alleviate different skin concerns. Unlike harmful UV light, current studies suggest that red light exposure does not pose a risk for skin cancer.
“Dermatologists frequently recommend red light therapy as a complementary option to other advanced treatments like medicated creams, microneedling, or chemical peels for treating visible aging signs,” Dr. Om added. “To enhance results from office-based procedures, many dermatologists may advise integrating at-home devices into your routine.”
While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has designated several home-use light therapy devices as safe and effective for combating signs of aging, experts agree that further research is essential to fully understand their efficacy levels, as stated by Dr. Om.
“Some studies indicate that repeated sessions of red light therapy may promote hair regrowth over time, though it’s crucial to recognize that numerous factors contribute to hair loss, and it remains uncertain whether red light can effectively reverse every type of hair loss,” Dr. Om cautioned.
The side effects associated with red light therapy are typically mild, consisting primarily of temporary discomfort or skin irritation following treatment. Many at-home devices proudly display the “FDA-cleared” label, signaling that they meet rigorous safety and effectiveness standards established by the agency.
“Before embarking on a red-light therapy journey at home, it’s wise to consult a board-certified dermatologist who can evaluate your overall health status and help outline your desired outcomes,” noted Dr. Om. “This approach ensures you choose the most appropriate treatment tailored to your specific skin concerns.”
Ultimately, prioritizing a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist is imperative rather than taking chances with potentially harmful skin care trends, Dr. Om emphasized.
“While some of these emerging trends can appear harmless or even advantageous, they often lack scientific backing and could inadvertently result in skin damage or other health complications,” he warned. “A board-certified dermatologist can offer invaluable, customized advice to help you cultivate a skincare routine that prioritizes your skin’s health while minimizing unnecessary risks.”
More Information
Red Light Therapy
Tips for Reducing Nail Damage
AAD B-Roll Library
About the AAD
With its headquarters located in Rosemont, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology, established in 1938, is regarded as the largest and most prestigious dermatological association worldwide. It boasts a membership exceeding 21,000 physicians globally, devoted to enhancing the diagnosis and treatment—both medical and cosmetic—of skin, hair, and nail conditions. The AAD advocates for high clinical practice standards and continuously supports educational and research endeavors in dermatology, recognizing the profound impact that skin, hair, and nail issues can have on individual health and well-being. For further inquiries, reach out to the AAD at (888) 462-DERM (3376) or visit aad.org. The AAD can also be followed on social platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, and YouTube, in addition to @AADskin1 on Instagram.
SOURCE American Academy of Dermatology
