Lately, social media has taken a bizarre turn in the beauty world. Among the latest fads, we’ve got influencers rubbing garlic on their faces, promising that it zaps away acne like magic. Yes, you read that right, garlic, the same stuff you use to spice up your pasta, is being smeared on delicate facial skin. Now, if you’re furrowing your brows in scepticism, you’re not alone. This trend isn’t just peculiar; it’s a bit concerning. While garlic in your diet is great, its place on your face is questionable at best. Some brave souls have tried it, posting their garlicky routines online with claims of clearer skin overnight. But before you start peeling cloves, let’s dig into the risks involved.
Don’t Use Raw Garlic On Face
First and foremost, the science behind using garlic as a skin treatment isn’t solid. Sure, garlic has some impressive properties—it’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, but these are beneficial inside your body. Top dermatologists are waving red flags, pointing out that there is insufficient evidence to back up any skin benefits of using garlic topically, especially for acne. The bigger issue? Garlic is harsh. Dermatologists warn that it can cause more harm than good, leading to skin irritation, burns, allergic reactions, and even long-term issues like hyperpigmentation. Imagine trying to fix a pimple and ending up with a burn. Not exactly the upgrade you were hoping for.
And let’s not forget the recent craze over eating fermented garlic to clear up acne. While it sounds healthier than direct skin application, experts remain cautious. Fermenting garlic in honey and munching on it might be a tasty experiment, but there’s no guarantee it will clear your skin, and it could lead to digestive upset if you’re not careful.
So, what should you do instead? Stick to proven acne treatments recommended by skin care professionals. There are plenty of over-the-counter options that are safe and effective. They might not be as trendy or ‘natural’ as rubbing raw garlic on your face, but they are much less likely to leave you with regrets.
In the world of beauty, not every trend is a friend. Sometimes, it’s okay to skip the weird stuff and keep it simple. Your skin will thank you for it.