Introduction: Skincare, or Skin-Scare?

Social media has impacted nearly every aspect of life. Information on countless topics and people is more available than ever. Increasing accessibility, while a powerful tool, carries the spread of misinformation. Patients and viewers, or “learners”, are often caught between contradicting information from so-called reliable sources. Regarding health issues, the inconsistency of information can have dire consequences.

This misinformation affects a universal health concern: skin. Skin struggles and insecurities are widespread. Many turn to TikTok for remedies, whether medically backed or not. This problem of unsupported advice is one that professionals in the field of dermatology are striving to solve. Various board-certified dermatologists, including Dr. Sandra Lee, use their platforms to provide accurate advice to learners seeking it. Other sources that the field of dermatology uses to combat misinformation include peer-reviewed journals, professional magazines, and pamphlets. Through these resources, learners can find the truth, away from the conflicting perspectives of influencers with no qualifications.

Truth vs. Trends: Where to Find Reliable Skincare Information

While it appears that skincare misinformation is a niche corner of social media, the problem may be more extensive than people believe. In an article in which a dermatologist analyzes the latest skincare trends, the author explains, “52% of Americans who have tried a health trend, tool or approach in the past year say they found them on social media, whereas only 34% say they consulted their doctor or another health care provider” (Grasso & Dowd, 2024). This demonstrates the magnitude of this problem and the fact that we are all susceptible to incorrect advice.

It begs the question: where should learners go to properly learn?

One option would be to turn to the authority that supplies even healthcare providers with information: peer-reviewed journals. Heavily revised and in-depth, journals such as BMC Dermatology and Dermatology Research and Practice are high-quality alternatives to social media. For example, the BMC Dermatology journal gives a scientific explanation of acne causes, saying, “The pathogenesis of acne is complicated; it develops due to hormonal imbalance leading to overproduction of sebum accompanied by follicular duct hyper-keratinization” (Alkhawaja et al., 2020). Essentially, this quote explains that acne is caused by hormone imbalances that make the skin oily and thicken the skin layer. Understanding the causes can be helpful for those struggling with acne. In stark contrast, we have a quote from a TikTok with over one million likes. The clip shows a young man swimming in the ocean, with the caption “When the ocean water clears up your acne in 2 days” (Alim_kh0, 2024). After reading the quote from the journal, it is obvious that this claim is neither realistic nor scientifically backed. Ocean water will not reduce hyper-keratinization or eliminate oiliness. As the journal says, “acne is complicated”, and a simple dip in the ocean is not the catch-all solution. Turning to journals rather than groundless claims is a small step in avoiding the implementation of misinformation.

Consider how individuals may be affected when applying skincare advice without enough context. Teens and adults alike may fall victim to the side effects of the advice they are influenced by, for example, a YouTube Short about laser resurfacing has the caption, “Achieving glass skin is possible with our advanced Erbium laser treatment” (DrNadirQazi, 2024). While this result sounds appealing, the short clip fails to inform potential patients of the dangers. On the other hand, the Dermatology Research and Practice journal clarifies that “All ablative lasers showed a high risk of complications and side effects” (Fabbrocini et al., 2010). This distinction is important for viewers to understand before turning to laser treatment. Social media is not required to make those disclaimers. What is at stake here is an individual’s health and confidence, and they deserve to be fully informed before facing possible risks. Academic journals can aid in protecting individuals from these situations and are significantly better for this purpose than online advertisements.

A distinct downside of academic journals is accessibility and comprehension. Many journals cost money to access, and even once they are obtained, they may be too intricate to comprehend and apply. While they are a great resource for educated populations, other alternatives bridge this gap between professionals and learners. One of these connections is professional publications, specifically in the form of magazines. This interdisciplinary connection is important in dermatology because it helps patients and learners feel capable and understood. Countless magazines can be easily found online. In addition, many magazines, such as the Skin Healthy Magazine, use plain language practices to communicate with the learner effectively. Using simple phrases such as “Don’t skip your moisturizer” (Granero, 2024, pp. 14) and “Avoid products with alcohol or strong fragrances” (Granero, 2024, pp. 10-15), there is little to no communication barrier. These lines do not include medical jargon that an outside audience would be perplexed by. Dermatology magazines are an example of a source that combats misinformation and is readily accessible to learners.

As explored above, there are numerous alternatives to influencer advice. However, if correctly used, social media can be a truthful source. This is due to the presence of licensed dermatologists and professionals. These individuals can use their platforms to provide care in unprecedented ways. In an article about misinformation online, one dermatologist said, “My advice for dermatologists is to continue to correct misinformation when you see it, point patients towards the AAD social media pages if they do want to follow skincare trends” (Grasso & Dowd, 2024). Many dermatologists are doing just that, including Dr. Sandra Lee, aka Dr. Pimple Popper. She has a growing social media influence, with over eight million YouTube subscribers. In an online interview, Dr. Lee explained, “It has shown me the power of social media. And I think this is kind of a new area that we as physicians, we have to tread a fine line here too, because this is a whole new time for us” (Sandra Lee, 2015). This new age of online influence is a powerful tool in the hands of the right people.

However, it is crucial to note the “fine line.” At what point is dermatological influence on social media a negative thing? In an article by Allure, a leading company in the world of beauty, they reveal, “Physicians have accepted money from skin-care companies to help them formulate better products, and in more recent years, they have helped market them too” (Kilbane, 2024). Product marketing is gaining traction in the realm of social media dermatology. Companies pay large sums to have their products marketed by a professional, and oftentimes, professionals may not support that brand in reality. Viewers should not take these recommendations blindly. This brings into question what commitments those in dermatology have to their patients and the field in general. In the interview with Dr. Lee, the interviewer states, “We as physicians have to meet our patients where they are, and where they are is on YouTube and Instagram” (Andrea Tooley, 2015). Social media can bridge the gap between a patient and their provider, and give them easy, not to mention free, access to information. As the quote explains, dermatologists have a commitment to help patients with whatever stage they may be in, and the internet has the capacity to do so. Dr. Lee also mentions how online videos can help patients feel more comfortable visiting a medical facility: “What’s nice about social media is that you can show your personality and you can show how you interact with patients, and it endears you to others and they feel safe” (Sandra Lee, 2015). The internet can change perspectives and help more dermatologists reach more people. Overall, dermatologists participating in sharing skincare advice online can be an ideal resource and contribute to strengthening confidence in healthcare everywhere. However, viewers should take into consideration advertisements and sponsorships, and logically examine advice that is shared. Social media is shaping the field of dermatology in unimaginable ways, both positive and negative. As Dr. Lee said, “[Social media] is definitely extremely powerful” (Sandra Lee, 2015).

The Pros and Cons of Dermatology Pamphlets

Common communication documents in dermatology are informational handouts and pamphlets. These can be found in office lobbies or given to patients by their medical providers. They are another available resource to simplify skin concerns and procedures into plain language that patients can understand and apply.

Informational handouts help dermatologists educate their patients and improve their skin conditions by making treatment more manageable and understandable. In a way, it does what social media does for viewers: engagingly condensing information and advice. Medical pamphlets help combat misinformation by functioning in a similar appealing way to skincare social media, yet are much more consistently accurate.

The difficulty of handouts is that they are not as accessible as a TikTok or Instagram reel. It is much easier to search “anti-acne solutions” on YouTube rather than schedule a dermatologist visit. Access to a dermatologist is not a reality for everyone. Another problem with informational handouts is that they are streamlined to address the concern overall, not individual needs. This can be useful for broad areas of skincare, but some patients may require slightly different treatment. For example, an online pamphlet titled “Patient Instructions for Accutane” states, “In order to continue this program, you will need to be seen every 30-31 days with the provider” (Center for Dermatology, Cosmetic and Laser Surgery, Inc., 2017) (See Figure 1 in Appendix). While this advice in the pamphlet is a good general rule, some patients may need to be seen more frequently. Handouts and pamphlets are superior communication documents to social media, but they may be less accessible and individualized.

My Past and Future in Dermatology

A relevant conversation in dermatology to me is the accessibility of correct acne care information, particularly for younger populations. I struggled with acne starting in middle school, and it was confusing to find advice that both worked and was scientifically backed. Social media can be a wonderful tool for this accessibility if used correctly. I began watching dermatologists on YouTube and learning from them. However, I was influenced by other tips that were not from viable sources, leading to my skin becoming more damaged. Healing my skin barrier damage was a long process – one that could have been avoided if I had truthful resources. In an article titled “TikTok and WHO are getting together to help combat widespread health misinformation on social media”, it says, “While social media health posts can be beneficial for those looking for patient perspectives, it’s important that users are also able to access high-quality, medically accurate resources from qualified professionals” (Taylor, 2024). Many situations like my own could be avoided by teaching teens to use “medically accurate resources”. Easy, accessible skincare advice for youth is crucial to both self-confidence and overall health.

In the future, I might contribute to this field by working as a dermatology physician’s assistant. I play a part in this field even now by advising my friends and family on skincare products when they request my advice. I strive to earn my bachelor’s degree and complete physician assisting school. These experiences would improve my communication and work ethic in addition to the training I need. Professional communication, including improving my oral communication abilities, will make me a more competent healthcare provider by teaching me to be personable and understandable.

To meaningfully contribute as a physician’s assistant, I would study many other skin conditions besides acne. I want a stronger background in biology and chemistry to assist in my expertise. I also aspire to have a social media platform that supplies medically backed skincare advice. This would be a small way of combating the spread of public health misinformation on social media.

After delving into social media’s impact on public health misinformation, I would like to investigate how to find credible sources on social media in general. From acne tips to political news, a wide variety of misinformation on social media goes unchecked. I am interested in researching how to check sources on social platforms and how media companies address this obstacle.

Conclusion: Taking Charge of Our Knowledge

The field of dermatology is highly influential in combatting skincare misinformation on social media. This key conversation greatly affects skincare learners, as they face an onslaught of advice from multiple sources. Outside viewers can find truthful information through dermatology resources, such as journals, magazines, and pamphlets. Dermatologists can have a strong influence on social media but may face moral allegations about the nature of sponsorships.

Dangerous and untested advice is not a dermatology-specific problem. From car repairs to dieting, countless other professions face this struggle and work to distinguish fact from fiction. Moving forward, learners should take charge of their knowledge. We can back up our medical-based posts with valid evidence and be aware of the motives behind online content. As learners and providers remain aware and proactive, we can weaken the power of health misinformation worldwide.

References

[Alim_kh0]. (2024, August 26). The best solution for acne [Video]. TikTok. https://www.tiktok.com/@alim_kh0/video/7407483135178460448

Alkhawaja, E., Hammadi, S., Abdelmalek, M., Mahasneh, N., Alkhawaja, B., & Abdelmalek, S. M. (2020). Antibiotic resistant Cutibacterium acnes among acne patients in Jordan: A cross sectional study. BMC Dermatology, 20(1). https://doi.org/http://dx.doi.org.dist.lib.usu.edu/10.1186/s12895-020-00108-9

[Andrea Tooley]. (2015, October 26). Interview with Dermatologist Dr. Sandra Lee [Video]. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvKS_AWF3R0

Center for Dermatology (2017). Patient Instructions for Accutane. Center for Dermatology, Cosmetic and Laser Surgery. https://centerforderm.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Accutane-handout.pdf

[DrNadirQazi]. (2024, September 2). Achieving glass skin is possible with our advanced Erbium Laser treatment. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/kayPlXZ58B4

Fabbrocini, G., Annunziata, M. C., D′Arco, V., De Vita, V., Lodi, G., Mauriello, M. C., Pastore, F., & Monfrecola, G. (2010). Acne Scars: Pathogenesis, Classification and Treatment. Dermatology Research and Practice. https://doi.org/10.1155/2010/893080

Granero, K. (2024, November). Create your ideal anti-aging skin care plan. Skin Healthy Magazine. https://www.aad.org/public/skin-healthy-magazine

Grasso, G. M., & Dowd, K. (2024, December 19). Dermatologist shares truth about social media’s most popular skincare trends. Healio. Retrieved February 16, 2025, from https://www.healio.com/news/dermatology/20241219/dermatologist-shares-truth-abo ut-social-medias-most-popular-skincare-trends

Kilbane, B. (2024, March 21). The Tricky Business of Being a TikTok Derm. Allure. Retrieved February 15, 2025, from https://www.allure.com/story/dermatologists-and-social-media

Taylor, A. (2024, November 13). TikTok and WHO are getting together to help combat widespread health misinformation on social media. The Conversation. Retrieved February 16, 2025, from https://theconversation.com/tiktok-and-who-are-getting-together-to-help-combat-wide spread-health-misinformation-on-social-media-236965

Appendix A: Pamphlet

Instructional pamphlet referenced in “The Pros and Cons of Dermatology Pamphlets” section. https://centerforderm.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Accutane-handout.pdf

Figure 1: Screenshot of Dermatology Pamphlet

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Appendix B: AI Use

Chat GPT was used for title brainstorming. Figures 2-5 display the prompts and responses.

Figure 2: Main Title Brainstorming

Figure 3: Main Title Refinement

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Figure 4: Second Section Title Brainstorming

Figure 5: Second Section Title Refinement