Some beauty trends explode on social media and make us wonder, "Am I missing out?" Maybe you've heard friends talk about “slugging,” or you've seen influencers rave about “skin cycling” or “glass skin.” But how much of it is legit — and how much is just hype with a pretty filter?

Let's dig into the actual science behind some of these viral beauty trends. We're not just talking about what looks good on social media — we're asking what really benefits your skin, and what might not be worth the time (or the breakout).

1. Slugging: Why Petroleum Jelly is Trending

Yes, smearing petroleum jelly all over your face at night is now a thing — and it's called “slugging.” The idea? Lock in moisture and repair the skin's protective barrier.

Here's what dermatology says: According to Dr. Andrea Suarez (a board-certified dermatologist), slugging can be helpful if your skin is very dry or damaged — especially during winter. Petroleum jelly is an occlusive, which means it forms a seal over the skin and keeps water from escaping.

Pros:

• Helps heal cracked, irritated skin

• Affordable and fragrance-free

• Doesn't clog pores for most people

Cons:

• Not great for acne-prone or oily skin

• Can trap bacteria if skin isn't clean

Bottom line? Slugging works best as an occasional treatment for dry or sensitive skin, not as a nightly ritual for everyone.

2. Skin Cycling: Rest Days for Your Face

Skin cycling, made popular by Dr. Whitney Bowe on social media, is all about giving your skin a schedule. It typically involves:

• Night 1: Exfoliation (like AHA or BHA)

• Night 2: Retinoids

• Night 3 & 4: Recovery with just moisturizer

Why this matters: Overusing active ingredients like acids and retinoids can lead to irritation, redness, and peeling. Skin cycling gives your skin time to repair.

A study published in the Journal of the Academy of Dermatology in 2024 demonstrated that a controlled skin cycling regimen—alternating active skincare ingredients with recovery days—results in better overall skin health and fewer adverse effects, such as redness and peeling, compared to daily use of the same active ingredients

Takeaway: If your skin feels irritated or overworked, giving it a “rest day” might be exactly what it needs.

3. Glass Skin: Is Dewy Skin Actually Healthy?

The “glass skin” trend — ultra-smooth, reflective skin that looks poreless and glowing — originated in Korean skincare circles and has taken over social media.

To get it, people layer:

1. Toner

2. Essence

3. Serum

4. Moisturizer

5. Facial oil

6. Highlighter (sometimes)

While this layered routine gives an instant glow, what's really happening is intense hydration. Hydrated skin looks more plump and reflects light better.

Dr. Alexis Stephens, a cosmetic dermatologist, says this routine can work — but warns that too many products increase the risk of clogged pores or allergic reactions. She recommends simplifying it: “Focus on a gentle cleanser, a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid, and a good moisturizer.”

Science says: Hydration = glow. But too many layers ≠ better skin. Use what your skin actually needs, not what looks good on a shelf.

4. Face Icing: TikTok's Coolest Trick

Rubbing ice or a cold roller across your face to “shrink pores” and reduce puffiness isn't new — but it's gone viral again. Celebrities swear by it for morning de-puffing.

Does it work? Kind of. Cold constricts blood vessels, which can reduce swelling and redness temporarily. That's why dermatologists use cryotherapy for inflammation.

But beware:

• Don't apply ice directly for more than 30 seconds — it can damage capillaries

• It's a short-term fix, not a cure for skin issues

In short: It can be refreshing and helpful after a late night — but it won't change your skin long-term.

5. SPF Contouring: Trend or Trouble?

Some influencers now apply high SPF only on certain areas (like the nose bridge and cheekbones) to create a “natural contour” from the sun.

Dermatologists strongly advise against this. According to the Academy of Dermatology, inconsistent sun protection increases the risk of skin damage and premature aging. Uneven sun exposure can lead to discoloration, melasma, or even early signs of skin cancer.

6. “Natural” Skincare: When It's Good — and When It's Gimmick

“Clean,” “natural,” “non-toxic” — these labels are everywhere. But what do they really mean?

According to cosmetic chemist Michelle Wong (PhD), there's no universal definition of “clean beauty.” Some natural ingredients, like tea tree oil or lemon, can actually irritate skin if used incorrectly.

What matters most:

• Ingredients that are scientifically tested

• Products that are stable and well-formulated

• Listening to your own skin's response

Remember: Arsenic is natural too — but that doesn't mean it belongs on your face.

So, Should You Try These Trends?

It depends on your skin type, goals, and sensitivity. The best beauty routine is the one that works for you — not the one that's trending.

Instead of jumping on every bandwagon, ask:

• Is this backed by science?

• Is this safe for my skin?

• Am I doing this for my skin's health or for online likes?

Let's be honest — we've all tried a trend (or two) that didn't quite go as planned. So which viral beauty routine surprised you the most? Have you had a great (or not-so-great) experience with one? Drop your thoughts — we're all figuring this out together, one serum at a time.