By Dr. Ashima Madan, Cosmetic Dermatologist
At Skinssence Laser and Skincare Clinic in Kota, I have witnessed several patients come to me seeking help after trying skincare DIYs. What often starts with good intentions – using ingredients from the kitchen or acids purchased online – can unfortunately lead to serious skin damage. Here are some cases I’ve handled and the reasons why you should be cautious about DIY skincare:
One of my patients, a young woman, had purchased high-strength glycolic acid from an online platform, hoping to clear up her pigmentation. She applied it without knowing the proper concentration and without diluting it. Within a few days, her face developed severe burns and redness. It took us several months to restore her skin, using advanced treatments like laser therapy and healing serums. This is why I always advise patients to consult with a professional before using any chemical peels or acids.
Another patient came to me after using a DIY turmeric and lemon face mask that she found on social media. Her sensitive skin reacted badly to the acidity of the lemon, resulting in painful inflammation and pigmentation marks. Many people believe that natural ingredients like fruits or spices are safe, but these can be extremely harsh on the skin if not used correctly, especially for those with underlying conditions like eczema or rosacea.
Exfoliation is essential, but I often see patients who have scrubbed their faces raw with homemade sugar or salt scrubs. One case was a teenager with acne-prone skin, whose DIY scrub had stripped away her natural barrier, leading to severe breakouts and irritation. Over-exfoliating damages the skin's protective layer and opens the door to infections and long-term sensitivity.
A patient once experimented with mixing baking soda and apple cider vinegar, thinking it would help with her acne. Instead, it led to a chemical reaction that caused irritation and worsened her acne. These common household ingredients may seem harmless, but when combined incorrectly, they can damage your skin’s pH balance and lead to more harm than good.
In one instance, a patient with sensitive skin tried using raw tomato juice to treat her dark spots. This led to red, irritated patches across her cheeks. Many fruits and vegetables contain acids that are too strong for direct application, especially on delicate skin.
Skincare DIYs can seem appealing, but the results can be disastrous if you don't understand how the ingredients will interact with your skin. The rise of social media tutorials and easily available acids from online stores has led to more cases of damaged skin than ever before.
If you are serious about your skincare, I urge you to consult a professional before trying any treatment at home. At Skinssence Laser and Skincare Clinic, we tailor skincare routines and treatments based on individual skin types and conditions, ensuring safe and effective results. Your skin deserves professional care, not the risk of DIY experiments.
For personalized skincare consultations, visit us at 4 C 15, Sector 4, Talwandi, Kota, Rajasthan, or call us at 9509197578 to book an appointment.