Toothpaste is not a safe or effective acne treatment, despite being a popular DIY myth.

 

No, toothpaste is not a safe or effective acne treatment, despite being a popular DIY myth.

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🧪 Why People Think It Works:

Toothpaste often contains ingredients like baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, menthol, and triclosan—which can dry out pimples temporarily.

But...

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⚠️ Why Toothpaste Can Make Acne Worse:

1. Too Harsh for Skin

   • Toothpaste is formulated for teeth, not delicate facial skin. It can cause:

     • Irritation

     • Redness

     • Peeling

     • Even chemical burns in some cases

2. Disrupts Skin Barrier

   • It throws off your skin’s pH and strips protective oils, leading to more breakouts or sensitivity over time.

3. No Acne-Fighting Ingredients

   • It lacks clinically proven acne actives like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or niacinamide.

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✅ Better Spot Treatments:

• Salicylic acid (unclogs pores)

• Benzoyl peroxide (kills acne bacteria)

• Sulfur or clay (reduces oil & inflammation)

• Hydrocolloid patches (draw out fluid and speed healing)