Do Viral Beauty Hacks Actually Work? A Closer Look at the Internet’s Favorites
The internet is bursting with beauty hacks that promise instant results with little effort. But while some of these tips can genuinely upgrade your routine, others are misleading—or worse, harmful.
Let’s break down some of the most viral beauty hacks and see which ones are worth trying, and which are better left in your feed.
1. Slugging (Covering Skin in Petroleum Jelly Overnight)
The Claim: Locks in moisture and heals damaged skin barriers.
Verdict: ✅ It works—for the right skin type.
Slugging can be great for dry, sensitive, or compromised skin, but it’s not ideal for oily or acne-prone types. Always apply on clean skin and avoid layering over active ingredients like retinol.
2. Using Red Lipstick as Under-Eye Corrector
The Claim: Neutralizes dark circles under concealer.
Verdict: ⚠️ Technically works—but can go wrong fast.
Color correcting works, but too much red or the wrong undertone can show through makeup or make circles worse. Use a peach or orange corrector designed for the face instead.
3. Foundation in Water Hack (Mixing Foundation in Water to "Smooth" Texture)
The Claim: Gives a flawless, second-skin finish.
Verdict: ❌ Mostly a gimmick.
Foundation is not meant to mix with water. It can separate, oxidize, or apply unevenly. If you want a sheerer or more dewy look, mix it with moisturizer or a hydrating primer—not plain water.
4. DIY Brow Lamination with Glue Stick
The Claim: Gives a laminated brow effect on a budget.
Verdict: ❌ No—just no.
School glue sticks are not skin-safe, especially for delicate areas like your brows. Use a brow wax or gel formulated for the face to avoid clogged follicles or irritation.
5. Rice Water for Hair Growth
The Claim: Strengthens hair and promotes growth.
Verdict: ✅ Yes—but use with care.
Rice water is rich in amino acids and vitamins. Many users report smoother, stronger hair. Just don’t overdo it—it can lead to protein overload and dryness if used too often.
6. Ice Rolling or Icing the Face
The Claim: Depuffs, calms inflammation, tightens pores.
Verdict: ✅ It’s effective—and backed by dermatologists.
Icing can reduce swelling, soothe redness, and give skin a temporary lift. Just don’t apply ice directly to bare skin—use a cloth or tool, and limit sessions to a few minutes.
7. Bronzer as Eyeshadow
The Claim: A one-product makeup shortcut.
Verdict: ✅ Yes—it’s a multitasking win.
Bronzer works well as a crease shade or transition color on the eyes. Just make sure it’s matte or satin, and avoid shimmer-heavy formulas if you want a natural look.
8. Heatless Curls with Socks or Robe Belts
The Claim: Curls hair overnight without damaging heat.
Verdict: ✅ If done right, it works beautifully.
This hack can give you soft curls or waves, especially on slightly damp hair. Just avoid tying too tightly or using wet hair, which can cause breakage overnight.