Experts issue urgent warning to people popping spots using cheap viral hack

Skin experts at Beauty Pie have revealed why cheap DIY beauty hacks don't always work after seeing a viral spot popping trend. The TikTok trend encourages users to mix vinegar and baking soda

A cheap new beauty trend which has gone viral for popping spots could damage your skin, an expert has warned.

Nicola Moulton, Editorial Director at Beauty Pie, has shared her thoughts on the latest beauty hack, which involves people combining vinegar and baking soda together, to create a spot solution. The expert explained that although the supposed mixture is meant to make skin look flawless, it can end up causing irritation due to it being extremely acidic.

The social media craze has amassed millions of views, with one video titled, "Baking Soda Honey Vinegar for Pimples", reaching 66.1 million. While another clip hit a staggering 68.9 million, after TikTokers revealed their before and after looks. However, Nicola says the DIY treatment doesn't always have the same results and could cause itchy skin. Baking soda is naturally acidic with a pH balance of nine, so when it’s used on your skin it can create an imbalance leading to dryness. Additionally, apple cider vinegar is also very acidic, which can cause great irritation and discomfort for body acne and wounded skin, particularly when used in large quantities.

Speaking about the DIY trend, Nicola said: “If you are dealing with breakouts on your body and you’re considering trying this DIY trend, I would urge you to look for safer, more regulated and, ultimately, more efficacious alternatives. There is a reason why our body cleanser is rated so highly by our customers, and it’s because of the skin-loving ingredients that target and treat body breakouts.

"While it’s tempting to try a cheap quick-fix, it’s so important you’re not applying harmful ingredients which can cause more damage in the long run and actually cost you more money by trying to fix problems that are potentially caused by using harmful chemicals. While conditions like body acne can make us feel less confident, there’s no quick fix and it’s important to be patient if you want the best results and commit to a routine that utilises proven - and safe - skincare ingredients."

What is a safer alternative?

A safer way to help treat body acne and Keratosis Pilaris is to use a cleaner to smooth, brighten and exfoliate without causing dryness or irritation. Massage a couple of pumps onto damp skin, using circular motions on the problem areas before rinsing. For more exfoliation on texturised skin, massage the product and leave it on for a couple of minutes before rinsing well with lukewarm water, reports Manchester Evening News.

Salicylic Acid and C-X-Papaya Enzyme are two hero ingredients you should look out for to ward off spots too. Salicylic Acid helps to gently exfoliate skin, unclog pores by dislodging dead skin cells and regulate sebum production, while C-X-Papaya Enzyme boasts smoothing and brightening properties.