Dermatologists Evaluate Claims of Skin Smoothies Enhancing Facial Glow.

Skin smoothies have become a trending skincare routine on TikTok, with users claiming that a simple mix of products applied simultaneously can provide a coveted dewy skin appearance.

The originator of this routine is Amy K, a beauty creator on TikTok, who combines petroleum jelly, moisturizing lotion, an illuminating serum, and self-tanning lotion to combat dull and dry skin.

The sudden popularity of skin smoothies has left many skincare enthusiasts wondering whether this concoction is effective or detrimental. The answer is dependent upon one's skin type and product choice.

According to Shoshana Marmon, MD, Ph.D., FAAD, assistant professor of dermatology at New York Medical College, a skin smoothie involves applying a mixture of skincare products such as serums, oils, and moisturizers to the skin at once. Petroleum jelly, moisturizer, serum, and self-tanner are intended to hydrate the skin and create a radiant glow.

Compared to a facial, which entails multiple steps in a specific order to address specific skin issues, a skin smoothie is a less complex, quicker alternative. Although Amy K exhorts her recipe as a wonder-worker, Natalie Hone, MD, a dermatologist in Houston, TX, suggests that the effects of a skin smoothie can be replicated with a good moisturizer and makeup.

It's crucial to note that people may have varying reactions to skin smoothies, depending on their skin types. Rebecca Marcus, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Dallas, TX, warns that an improper skin smoothie concoction may clog pores, exacerbating acne. Dr. Marmon advises avoiding products that contain alcohol or fragrance, which may be irritating.

It may help to do some research and experimentation to identify the most successful product combination. Before blending the products together and applying them to your face, Dr. Marmon recommends testing out each product separately to ensure that they work well with your skin. Additionally, mixing the products ahead of time can prevent any skin reactions.

Although skin smoothies seem straightforward, certain ingredients may react poorly to each other, resulting in skin irritation. Therefore, consulting a dermatologist prior to incorporating this skincare routine is suggested to determine one's skin type and the products that suit them best.

While a skin smoothie may seem like a time-saver, Dr. Marcus still prefers layering your products one by one rather than mashing them all together.

“Formulation truly does matter and has an effect on a product’s efficacy,” she said, noting that she’s hesitant to recommend skincare smoothies—at least regularly. 

In general, she recommended a simple layering technique that allows each product to do its job effectively: Apply the lightest, or most active, products first before moving on to the heavier creams and lotions.

“Typically, a serum is used first, followed by a moisturizing cream, and topped off with sunscreen and makeup,” Dr. Marcus explained. If you add petroleum jelly into the mix, there’s a chance it could prevent the other products from being able to penetrate the skin. 

If you notice any peeling or irritation, you might be overdoing it, noted Dr. Ortiz. In this case, give your face a good wash and let your skin breathe, without products, for a couple of days. 

Ultimately, all three dermatologists agreed that skin smoothies, while perhaps providing instant gratification, probably aren't a habit they'd suggest for the most effective skincare.

“While the skin smoothie may be a good tip to use for a glow once in a while,' Dr. Marcus concluded, 'I probably wouldn’t recommend doing this every day.'