As more and more people turn to social media for news and information, we’re seeing some dangerous trends emerge. One of the latest is TikTok users posting videos of themselves using glycolic acid from the company, “Ordinary” as a substitute for deodorant. Glycolic acid is a powerful chemical exfoliant that can cause serious skin irritation. Dermatologists usually prescribe glycolic acid for the treatment of acne vulgaris, but there is no evidence that it is effective for underarm odor. Glycolic might be safe to use on your face, but it’s not meant to be applied to sensitive areas like your armpits. Doing so could lead to painful burns and serious skin damage.
So why are TikTok users using it on their underarms?
There are a few reasons. First, there’s a lot of misinformation out there about what’s safe to use on your skin. User @skncaresecrets states, “I never smell, I never smell when using glycolic acid. It neutralizes smell and helps with hyperpigmentation.” This raises questions for many viewers about the trends: “does it work?”, and “is it healthy?”. With such a large following and fan base many people just go along with every new trend social-media influencers are starting.
Second, people are looking for quick fixes and they think using glycolic acid will help them achieve perfect-looking skin. However, the reality is that glycolic acid can cause serious skin irritation, inflammation, and even cancer. So it’s definitely not worth the risk, no matter how good it might make your skin look in the short-term.
Lastly, some people may be using glycolic acid as a way to cope with anxiety or stress. We know that anxiety and stress can lead to changes in our body odor, so it’s possible that people are using this dangerous product in an attempt to mask those changes.
But here’s the thing: nothing is worth risking your health over. If you’re considering using glycolic acid on your underarms, please do your research first. don’t believe everything you see on social media. Just because someone uses a product doesn’t mean it’s safe. Do your own research and always consult with a medical professional before trying anything new. Always speak to a dermatologist or another medical professional to get the facts about glycolic acid whether or not it’s safe to use on your skin. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and never take risks with your health. Your skin will thank you for it in the long run.
