TikTok Skincare Routines That Actually Work, and Which Ones To Skip
We tried all the trending TikTok skincare rituals so you don’t have to…
The skincare side of TikTok is like a late-night infomercial, you’re intrigued, half-suspicious, and somehow ten videos deep at 2 a.m. With terms like "retinol sandwiching," "slugging," and "skin cycling routine" popping up faster than breakouts during finals week, it’s hard to tell what’s actually dermatology-backed and what’s just cleverly lit content. So, we did the work (and the waiting) to test viral skincare trends. Some routines delivered the dewy glow of your dreams. Others? Let’s just say your pores deserve better. Here’s what to keep, what to toss, and which products are worth slathering all over your face.
Skin Cycling Routine
What It Is:
A strategic, dermatologist-approved skincare routine that rotates active ingredients like retinoids and exfoliants over a 4-night cycle to prevent irritation.
How It Works:
Night 1: Exfoliation (e.g., glycolic acid)
Night 2: Retinoid
Nights 3 & 4: Recovery (moisturizer only)
Why It’s Worth It:
This trend is actually backed by dermatologists like Dr. Whitney Bowe and gives your skin time to repair, perfect for beginners easing into actives.
Verdict: ✅ Derm-approved and glow-boosting. Keep it in your rotation.
Product Recs
Slugging
What Is Slugging Skincare:
A nighttime routine where you seal your skincare with an occlusive layer (usually petroleum jelly) to lock in moisture and repair your skin barrier.
Why It Blew Up:
Dewy skin lovers found their holy grail, especially those with dry or compromised skin. It’s K-beauty inspired and TikTok’s poster child for moisture.
Who It’s Good For:
Dry, sensitive, or barrier-damaged skin. Avoid if you’re acne-prone or oily.
Verdict: ✅ Slather it on, if your skin barrier is in SOS mode.
Product Recs
Retinol Sandwiching Explained
What It Is:
Applying moisturizer before and after retinol to buffer its intensity while still reaping the anti-aging, acne-fighting benefits.
Why It Works:
By using a “moisture sandwich,” retinol becomes more tolerable, great for sensitive skin or retinol newbies. Think of it as a chill intro to a notoriously potent ingredient.
Science Says:
Derms agree: buffering helps reduce redness and flaking without reducing retinol’s efficacy too much.
Verdict: ✅ A gateway routine for anyone scared of retinol rage.
Product Recs
Double Cleansing with Cleansing Balms
What It Is:
First, melt off makeup with an oil-based cleanser, then follow up with a water-based one to get rid of any leftover gunk.
Why It’s Loved:
TikTokers say it clears up blackheads and clogged pores without stripping your skin. And yes, science backs the method: oil dissolves oil.
Verdict: ✅ Best for makeup wearers or SPF junkies. Your pores will thank you.
Product Recs
DIY Lemon Juice Masks and Toothpaste Spot Treatments
What They Are:
Old-school acne "hacks" that pop up on the algorithm more often than they should.
Why It’s a No-Go:
Dermatologists universally advise against this. Lemon juice disrupts your skin’s pH and can cause burns, and toothpaste dries your skin way too harshly.
Verdict: ❌ Just because it’s viral doesn’t mean it’s skin-safe. Step away from the citrus.
What Belongs in Your Bathroom
If a skincare routine feels like a TikTok stunt, it probably is. But when trend meets science (and a little patience), there’s real magic. Skin cycling? Keep. Slugging? Yes, if you’re on the drier side. Retinol sandwiching? Smooth move. The key? Customize these rituals to your skin’s needs, and ignore the rest of the internet’s chaos.