I’m a dermatologist – here’s the truth about TikTok’s iodine pimple hack
SPOTS, zits, pimples - whatever you call them - we all get them.
Chances are you've tried a whole bunch of remedies to treat the pests.
But now, people on TikTok have turned to iodine to get rid of their spots.
Swathes of social media users have posted videos of themselves putting the liquid on their pimples - and the reviews are generally positive.
The orange solution is an antiseptic, often used in hospitals before and after surgery.
You may have seen it on medical shows like Grey's Anatomy or Casualty, by doctors preparing to operate or scrub in.
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In the US, povidone-iodine is available over the counter in different forms, including liquid, dry powder spray and ointment.
It's not as easy to get your hands on the stuff in the UK, but you can order it online.
The main purpose of topical solutions is to treat small cuts, burns and scrapes.
As for its use on pimples, dermatologists are not surprised that the stuff can result in clearer skin.
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However, people who’ve heard about the TikTok trend should be aware of the risks.
Is it safe to use on my face?
Generally, povidone-iodine is typically safe to use, Dr Jaishree Sharad, a cosmetic dermatologist at Skinfinitii Aesthetic Skin and Laser in India, told .
However, it should not be used regularly as it can cause irritation.
She said it should should only be used an “SOS treatment for a day or two if nothing else is available".
The orange solution could also cause hyperpigmentation, a condition in which patches of skin become darker than the surrounding areas.
This may present as freckles or age spots.
Additionally, if you leave the treatment on for too long you could be left with severe contact dermatitis, the expert explained.
Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the immune system reacts to certain substances, even in small amounts.
It can result in a red rash, swelling, and itchy or dry skin - not exactly something you want on your face.
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Dr Jason Chouake, a dermatologist at the American Academy of Dermatology said: “There is not a board-certified dermatologist alive who has not seen contact allergy to iodine - it is well known,
“This is why I would always caution people not to randomly use medical supplies on your skin, which to some might seem self-evident.," he told HuffPost.