Inspired By TikTok Cure Acne With Toothpaste, Consider The Risks

Illustration of toothpaste treating acne (Unsplash/Shalii)

JAKARTA – Toothpaste has long been trusted by people to deflate blistered burns. However, consider again if you are inspired to use toothpaste to treat acne.

As reported by Healthline, Monday, September 13, some of the ingredients contained in toothpaste can actually shrink the small swelling of acne. But the risk is too great instead of using dental cleaning products it is better to consider other, more appropriate ways to deal with acne.

Harmful ingredients in toothpaste, such as triclosan, do work to kill bacteria. However, it is formulated on the teeth which means it is not intended for use on the skin. Other dangerous ingredients include hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, and baking soda.

Although in general the ingredients mentioned above are considered to reduce inflamed acne, according to Dr. Tsippora Shainhouse – a board-certified dermatologist – the cold sensation in toothpaste is often debilitating. This sensation can reduce pain in inflamed skin.

But so far there is no dermatological evidence that says that toothpaste really can cure acne without risk.

Toothpaste has a basic acidity or pH level. This level of acidity can irritate healthy skin that has natural acidity levels. Including mixing baking soda in a homemade mask concoction, it can actually trigger a rash and burning sensation.

The sensation and risk of toothpaste to treat acne does depend on the condition of the skin. So, instead of taking too big a risk, it's better to avoid toothpaste as an acne medication.

Shainhouse recommends tea tree oil as a substitute for toothpaste. The essential oil, according to research published in the Australian Journal of Dermatology, is effective in treating mild acne.

treat acne with toothpaste (Pexels/Yan Krukov)

In fact, suggests Shainhouse, you can add a few drops of tea tree oil to your facial care products. On normal skin, tea tree oil can be directly applied to remove acne scars.

The most visible risk that can be experienced when applying toothpaste for acne, although it can deflate faster than no treatment at all, but the skin becomes very dry.