LONDON, Feb 1: A new skincare trend has social media buzzing, but not all doctors are convinced about its benefits. Beauty enthusiasts are embracing the latest TikTok craze, which involves rubbing banana peels on the face as part of a daily skincare routine. Proponents claim this unusual trick can brighten the skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and even act as a “natural Botox.”

TikTok content creators have shared their experiences, with some saying their faces felt “so much tighter” after using the peel, while others claim the technique is a viable substitute for Botox. One user even mentioned doing “banana peel scrubs instead of Botox” for similar results.

The trend is based on the idea that banana peels contain “lutein,” an antioxidant that is believed to help brighten the skin and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Dr. Dave Reilly, head scientist at Absolute Collagen, explained to the Daily Mail that some users have also claimed the peels act as exfoliants. However, he remains skeptical about the effectiveness of this method.

While the antioxidant lutein may be present in banana peels, Dr. Reilly pointed out that it is unlikely to be absorbed by the skin when applied topically. He also noted that the concentration of lutein in the peel is too low to produce significant effects.

Other dermatologists have similarly dismissed the idea that banana peels could be a substitute for Botox. Dr. Geeta Yadav, a dermatologist based in Toronto, addressed the trend on TikTok, saying, “There’s no topical or food supplement that is going to give you the same effect Botox can when you inject it.” Instead, Dr. Yadav suggests opting for over-the-counter skincare products rather than relying on fruit peels for anti-aging benefits.

Dr. Mona Mislankar, a dermatologist in Ohio, has also commented on the trend, noting that while banana peels aren't as risky as other at-home skincare hacks, the biggest risk could be an allergy to the fruit. However, she agrees with Dr. Yadav, explaining that Botox works at a deeper muscular level to prevent and reduce wrinkles—something topical treatments like banana peels can’t achieve.

Dr. Reilly cautioned that trends like these often spread misinformation about skincare, advising people to stick to their trusted skincare routines and avoid unverified “hacks” to reduce the risk of irritation.

Despite the skepticism, banana peels can still be used for other home remedies, such as soothing insect bites or removing splinters. However, when it comes to skincare, doctors urge people to be cautious and realistic about the claims they encounter online.