Episode 29

bonus
Published on:

22nd Apr 2026

Bonus Episode: Viral Skincare Trends That Are Secretly Damaging Your Skin

Some of the most dangerous beauty trends right now don't look dangerous at all. In this bonus episode, I unpack viral skincare trends like over-exfoliation and DIY lip plumping-and what dermatologists are actually saying about them.

What do these quick-fix trends really do to your skin-and why are experts warning against them? If you've ever been tempted to copy a routine from TikTok, this episode might make you think twice.

Are. You. Ready?

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Sources:

Dermatology & Skin Barrier Health

American Academy of Dermatology — “Exfoliation: How to Safely Exfoliate Your Skin” and guidance on protecting the skin barrier

Cleveland Clinic — “Skin Barrier: What It Is, Function, and How to Repair It”

British Journal of Dermatology — Research on skin barrier disruption from overuse of exfoliating acids

Expert Commentary on Over-Exfoliation

Dr. Shereene Idriss — Public commentary and patient education on over-exfoliation and compromised skin barriers

The New York Times — “Dermatologists Warn Against Overcomplicated Skin-Care Routines” (coverage of social media skincare trends)

DIY Beauty Risks & Lip Irritation

Dr. Andrea Suarez — Educational content on DIY skincare risks and lip irritation

Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology — Studies on contact dermatitis caused by essential oils and irritants

Media Coverage on Viral Beauty Trends

Allure — “The Dangers of DIY Beauty Hacks on TikTok”

The New York Times — Reporting on TikTok skincare trends and dermatology concerns

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Apple Podcast:

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Spotify Podcast:

https://open.spotify.com/show/37MLxC8eRob1D0ZcgcCorA

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INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC:

FASION/ '1-800-DIRTY'/Courtesy of Epidemic Sound

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About the Podcast

Beauty Unlocked the podcast
Buckle up and get ready as I delve into a variety of topics regarding physical beauty.

We'll take a look at our society's obsession with physical beauty and the consequences these impossible beauty standards have had on us.
Let's face it; this fascination regarding physical beauty and body image isn't a recent phenomenon; it has been around for centuries, crossing borders, and has affected men and women alike.
The realization of this podcast has come about by my own experiences having to deal with society's perverse notion of physical "perfection" and researching an array of topics that have intrigued me over the years.
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About your host

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Carissa Vikis

Hey there!
I'm Carissa, host, content creator, and producer of the indie podcast Beauty Unlocked.
Growing up, I was frequently compared and criticized for my looks and weight. This started the vicious cycle of being self-critical and loathing my body. I knew I wasn't the only one suffering from society's ridiculous notion of what "we should look like." I started digging deeper and researching various topics, and the rest is h(er)story!
Beauty Unlocked The Podcast aims to educate and bring awareness of our society's obsession with physical beauty and the emotional consequences these impossible beauty standards have. Beauty Unlocked's social media platform showcases not only my work but that of other artists, illustrators, and fellow podcasters that I admire and that share a similar message of inspiration, empowerment, positivity, and raising awareness on a variety of social issues.