VIDEO: Experts warn against frozen cucumber skincare trend
Cucumbers don't seem that dangerous...
There aren't many fruits and vegetables that have been directly connected to skincare throughout history.
One food that has been seen and used in skincare for a very long time is cucumber.
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Especially when you want to enjoy a spa experience, you might place two cucumber slices on your eyes.
Now, TikTok skincare fans have found a new way of utilising the fruit.
Selina is the TikToker who went viral after sharing her cucumber skincare routine.
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She posted the video, which shows her rubbing the frozen cucumbers on her skin, and listed the benefits that come from using this on the skin.
Her list of benefits include:
- Depuffing
- Minimising pores
- Brightening skin
- Hydrating
- Firms and soothes the skin
- Helps with sunburn
Watch her video below:
@selinadasilvaa Beauty hack: Natural frozen cucumber Gua Sha 🥒✨ it has so many advantages ✨ #homeremedy #facialtreatment #facial #facemassage #fyp #icefacial #skintok #diy ♬ original sound - edited audios
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Many people have now tried this skincare hack and have praised it for the results that they have been seeing.
But it should also come with a warning.
While cucumbers can offer hydration, it can also have negative side effects.
Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital, does say that like most social media trends, this one needs to be approached with a balanced perspective.
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Various sources note that using cucumbers straight from the fridge can help constrict blood vessels, reduce puffiness, and calm the skin after a workout or heat exposure.
The problem might be with exaggeration.
Zeichner notes that something as simple as an ice cube can achieve the same benefits.
Dr Doris Day, a clinical associate professor of dermatology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, says cucumbers' skin-tightening effects are only temporary.
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Cucumbers contain natural antioxidants and vitamins, but they won't always effectively absorb into the skin.
Products need a delivery mechanism to penetrate the skin.
The biggest warning is for those who suffer from eczema, acne, and psoriasis, as cucumbers can cause inflammation, making these conditions worse.
Leaving room-temperature cucumbers on your skin can also cause dehydration.
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