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In the vast world of skincare, there is no shortage of old-school remedies and do-it-yourself methods that promise miraculous results.  

From using toothpaste on spots to using hairspray for setting makeup – even lemon juice to brighten the skin – these age-old hacks have been passed down through generations.  

However, it’s time to separate fact from fiction and take a closer look at the effectiveness and potential harm of these DIY skincare methods. Sometimes, sticking to a traditional serum skincare routine is best! 

Toothpaste on spots 

One popular DIY hack that has been widely recommended is using toothpaste on spots or pimples. The idea behind this hack is that toothpaste, with its drying properties, can help reduce the size and redness of a blemish overnight. 

While it may provide a temporary solution for some, it’s important to note that toothpaste is not formulated for skincare purposes. 

Using toothpaste on your skin can actually do more harm than good. Toothpaste contains ingredients like menthol, fluoride, and triclosan, which are designed for oral use. Applying toothpaste to the skin can cause irritation, dryness, and even chemical burns. 

Instead of resorting to toothpaste, try using targeted acne treatments specifically formulated for the skin. These products usually contain ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which are proven to be effective in treating acne without causing unnecessary skin damage. 

Hairspray as setting spray 

Another popular DIY hack in the beauty community is using hairspray to set makeup. The idea behind this method is to mist hairspray over the face to help keep makeup in place for longer periods. 

 However, this practice can have adverse effects on the skin! 

Hairspray contains ingredients such as alcohol and polymers that are not suitable for facial application. Hairspray can be extremely dry and irritating to the skin, leading to redness, inflammation, and even allergic reactions. Additionally, inhaling hairspray particles can be harmful to your respiratory system. 

Instead of relying on hairspray, use a makeup setting spray specifically formulated for the face. These products are designed to keep makeup intact without compromising the health of your skin.  

Lemon juice to brighten 

Lemon juice has long been touted as a natural skin brightening agent. Its acidic nature is believed to lighten dark spots and even out the skin tone. However, you must be careful! 

While it’s true that lemon juice contains citric acid, which has some very mild exfoliating and lightening properties, it is not an ideal choice for skincare. The acidity of lemon juice can disrupt the skin’s pH balance and compromise its natural barrier function. This can lead to increased sensitivity, dryness, and irritation, especially for individuals with sensitive or dry skin.  

There are numerous skincare products available that contain gentle exfoliants, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or vitamin C, which can effectively promote a brighter complexion without causing harm or irritation.  

Always research beforehand 

DIY skincare methods may not always be backed by scientific evidence. What worked for someone else may not necessarily work for you, and in some cases, it can do more harm than good. 

It’s crucial to consult with skincare experts and dermatologists who can provide evidence-based recommendations tailored to your specific skin needs. 

While old-school skincare hacks may seem tempting and convenient, it’s essential to approach them with caution. Toothpaste should not be used as a spot treatment due to its potential for skin damage, hairspray should never be used on the face as it can cause dryness, irritation, and allergic reactions, and lemon juice should never be used as it can disrupt the skins natural pH levels.   

Remember, your skin deserves expert care, and that means relying on products specifically formulated for its needs is the best way to maintain a healthy and radiant complexion.