Viral Korean Skincare Trends on TikTok Often Mislead Consumers

Analysts examined 38 top-performing videos from May 2026, finding that 84% of creators failed to distinguish between skin types, while 45% encouraged risky combinations of active ingredients. Despite the potential for over-exfoliation or barrier damage, not a single video recommended consulting a professional. Furthermore, 32% of the content promised instant results, despite lacking any scientific backing or external references.

Dr. Maria Lúcia Paysano, the study’s lead author, highlighted a consistent absence of critical warnings regarding irritation or sun protection. With 82% of these videos produced by non-physician influencers, the findings suggest a significant quality gap in digital beauty advice. Relying on these one-size-fits-all routines can trigger acne flares or contact dermatitis, particularly when users blindly follow complex layering strategies popularized by non-experts.