TikTok Skin Care Videos Contained Misleading Claims
Researchers found that nearly every viral video regarding Korean skin care routines included inaccurate health information.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Beauty
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A recent analysis of 38 viral TikTok videos on Korean skin care revealed that 94.7% contained at least one misleading claim. No videos in the sample were produced by dermatologists or recommended professional medical consultation.
Why it matters
The prevalence of unverified beauty advice on social media platforms poses risks to consumers who may adopt excessive ingredient combinations without clinical guidance. These findings highlight a significant gap between viral trends and evidence-based dermatological practices.
Researchers evaluated 38 videos using the Global Quality Scale, yielding an average quality score of 1.13 out of 5 and a mean modified DISCERN score of 0.84. Non-physician influencers were responsible for 81.6% of the content.
The players
European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology
This professional organization facilitates the exchange of dermatological research and hosted the presentation of the study findings.
TikTok
This social media platform serves as a global hub for beauty trends and is the source of the video content analyzed in the study.
The details
Researchers performed a systematic search for Korean skin care routines on TikTok to evaluate the quality of beauty advice being disseminated. The analysis utilized the Global Quality Scale and the modified DISCERN tool, confirming that 100% of the videos were considered unreliable or less reliable, with 44.7% promoting excessive active ingredient usage.
Timeline
October 7, 2026: Study results presented at a dermatology congress.
Culture Shift
This study aligns with the broader documented trend regarding misinformation prevalence in social media beauty content. It confirms that the reliance on non-clinical influencers for health-related routines marks a departure from traditional, doctor-led dermatological guidance.
Readers should be wary of adopting skin care routines that combine excessive active ingredients based solely on influencer content. It is highly recommended to consult a dermatologist before starting new regimens to ensure safety and efficacy.
The takeaway
Social media trends often prioritize aesthetic results over safety, making it essential for users to cross-reference beauty advice with credible medical sources. Implementing a simple, consistent routine is generally more effective and safer than following complex regimens promoted by unqualified creators.
Further reading
Learn more about expert-led skin care standards in our Beauty section.
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