Viral Skincare Trends: Worth It or Not?

Whether you’re chronically online or you let news circle back to you from friends and family, you’ve probably caught wind of some trends on platforms like Tik Tok and Instagram. We are thrilled about the greater collective appreciation for skincare, but with quick trend cycles backed by little research, these viral trends can flit from miraculous to dangerous rather quickly. 

Club West Med Spa is here to provide an expert opinion on whether these skincare trends are really worth it. Read on to hear our takes and decide for yourself whether they’re worth trying. If you’re looking for a professional to help troubleshoot your skin issues, contact us at Club West Med Spa today! 

Jade Rollers & Ice Rollers & Gua Sha, Oh My!

Worth It

While this practice has recently taken the internet by storm, it’s actually been around since ancient times. Gua sha is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that originated in ancient China as a form of lymphatic drainage. At the time, stones and other household materials were used to massage toxins out of the body. Later, the practice evolved to use minerals like jade and rose quartz, which we often see today. Jade rollers are said to have come about in the 17th century as more of a facial massaging tool. Ice rollers are a modern reinvention of these tools that you can keep in your freezer, which specifically help de-puff and stimulate skin cells. 

These facial massaging tools are worth it in our book. The process involves a technique of massaging the skin in repeated movements to increase circulation, promote lymphatic drainage, reduce swelling, and  give your skin some extra glow. Because of their online popularity, the tools are easy to find and quite affordable–the perfect addition to your skin care routine! 

Slugging

Worth it…but only if it works for you!

The term “slugging” can elicit images of slimy snails…and that’s exactly what it’s intended to do! Slugging is the practice of slathering your face in petroleum jelly before bed, resembling the trail of goo a snail leaves behind. Social media users swear this is a miracle treatment for softer, glowy skin. Since petroleum jelly is very thick, you probably don’t need as much as you think you do. 

But be warned: slugging only benefits those with extremely dry skin. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, slugging can do more harm than good. The thick layer can clog your pores and lead to breakouts. If your face is already irritated, petroleum jelly can inhibit its healing. 

IV Drip Treatments

Not Worth It

Many-a wellness junkies are turning to IV therapy for infusions of necessary vitamins and nutrients. These treatments promise quick fixes to issues like hangovers, stress, and dull skin.

Unless your doctor suggests them, IV drips for glowing skin are unnecessary. If you are maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet, staying hydrated, and have an efficient skincare routine, there’s no need for an IV injection of vitamins. If you aren’t doing those things already, one IV drip is not going to solve all your problems.

LED Face Masks

Worth it…but leave it to the professionals!

LED light masks: voted most likely to cause a jump scare when scrolling through your social media feed…

To anyone who hasn’t heard of LED light therapy, this trend is probably the most terror-inducing. While the face masks resemble something out of a sci-fi horror movie or an EDM dance club, the results are far from scary. The masks use a spectrum of LED light colors to address specific skincare concerns. Blue light can be used to target bacteria that leads to acne, while red light can increase collagen production in the skin, and green light can reduce hyperpigmentation. 

This treatment has been used for decades, but it’s trending more recently because of its venture into individual homes. While we absolutely believe in the benefits, we wouldn’t try to convince you to spend hundreds of dollars to do it at home, as the DIY treatments often aren’t as effective as clinical ones. If you’re interested in the benefits of LED light therapy, talk to a professional first. 

Face Tape

Not Worth It

Face tape has quickly gained traction on Tik Tok and other platforms, promising an “instant facelift” or decrease in wrinkles overnight. As skincare experts, we are weary of anything that promises instant results. If it seems too good to be true, it usually is. 

This frequent pulling and stretching of your skin causes even more wrinkles in the long term! Even more, the adhesive in the tape can irritate your skin. If you’re looking for a way to reverse the appearance of aging, it’s in your best interest to choose a professional, long-term remedy.

Preventative Botox®

Worth It

Botox®, on the other hand, is a tried and true method of fighting the signs of aging. While Botox® used to be geared toward older women whose features have already matured, more and more people are recognizing the benefits of getting an early start. Preventative Botox®, or targeting areas of the face like the forehead and smile lines before wrinkles occur, is a fantastic way to beat those unwanted imperfections. So no, you don’t have to be of a certain age to begin treatments–your 20s and 30s are a great time to start!

Visit Club West Med Spa’s website to discover all the types of injectable treatments we offer!

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Skincare Is Always in Style at Club West Med Spa

At Club West Med Spa, we don’t believe in quick fixes. We are dedicated to addressing your skincare concerns and creating successful routines and solutions to last a lifetime. 

Located in Midlothian, VA, we’re here whenever you need us! Contact us today to book your next appointment!