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| - Last Updated on December 3, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that a homemade cream can cure all skin problems in 10 minutes only. We did the fact check and found out it’s false.
The Claim
An Instagram post claims that mixing camphor, coconut oil, turmeric, glycerine, rose water, and aloe vera gel can make your skin shiny and glowing. It suggests that applying this mixture every night will make your skin look flawless like the moon, make you very fair, and give you “glass skin” better than Korean girls. The post also says it will tighten your skin, make it look younger, and fix all skin problems in just 10 minutes.
Fact Check
Can a homemade cream work within 10 minutes to cure all skin problems?
No, a homemade cream cannot cure all skin problems in just 10 minutes. Skin conditions like acne, pigmentation, dryness, and ageing issues involve complex biological processes. Their treatment usually needs consistent care, targeted ingredients, and time. While ingredients like aloe vera and turmeric may provide temporary soothing or brightening effects, their impact is superficial and cannot address underlying causes of skin issues.
Scientific research shows that camphor may help reduce inflammation in minor cases, and coconut oil can provide hydration. However, these benefits are gradual and not instant. Claims of achieving complete skin transformation in minutes are unrealistic and exaggerated.
We consulted Dr Rashi Soni, Co-founder and Consulting Dermatologist at Rashi Hospital in Mumbai, about whether homemade remedies can cure all skin problems such as acne, pigmentation, and tanning. She explained, “Not really! Effective skincare requires consistency and scientifically proven ingredients. For issues like dark spots, products containing vitamin C, niacinamide, or retinoids are far more reliable as they brighten the skin and promote cell turnover. Sunscreen is essential to prevent further damage from the sun. While some natural ingredients can soothe the skin, they cannot deliver dramatic or instant results. Additionally, your diet plays a significant role in maintaining healthy skin. If there is no improvement after consistent use of proper skincare, professional treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy may be necessary.”
Similar to this claim, we have previously debunked the use of coconut oil and camphor for removing dark spots.
Does this cream provide a “glass skin” effect better than Korean skincare?
No, this mixture does not mimic or surpass Korean skincare. The term “glass skin” refers to a clear, luminous, and hydrated complexion commonly associated with Korean skincare routines. However, achieving such results depends on genetics, ethnicity, and environmental factors. Indian skin, for instance, differs from Korean skin in terms of melanin content, skin thickness, and susceptibility to conditions like pigmentation and tanning due to harsher climates and higher UV exposure.
These genetic and environmental differences make it unrealistic for Indian skin to achieve the “glass skin” look that Korean skincare promotes. Also, the suggested remedy doesn’t contain the specially formulated ingredients or the multi-step approach needed to get those results.
We consulted Dr Sachin Gupta, Dermatologist at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, about whether achieving Korean glass skin is realistic for Indians. He explained, “No, it isn’t. Our skin differs significantly due to genetics, environmental factors, and individual conditions, making it unrealistic to transform Indian skin into Korean skin.”
Dr Gupta highlights that achieving ‘Korean glass skin’ is particularly challenging for Indians because of differences in skin type, climate, and environmental exposure. Indian skin, which is often oilier and more prone to acne, may not respond well to the multi-step routines of Korean skincare.
Likewise, “rice water for Korean glass skin” is trending on social media as a popular remedy. However, unfortunately, it does not work for us Indians.
Can this cream make skin tighter and younger overnight?
No, skin tightening and anti-ageing effects need more than a single application of homemade cream.
Ageing skin is influenced by factors like collagen loss, sun damage, and genetics. Effective treatments often include retinoids, peptides, or professionally-administered therapies such as laser treatments. Natural remedies, while beneficial in some cases, provide minimal and temporary results.
Turmeric and aloe vera may have antioxidant properties, but their ability to significantly improve skin elasticity or reduce wrinkles has not been proven in quick applications.
Are the claims about fairness and “moon-like” skin valid?
No, these claims are misleading and reinforce harmful beauty standards. Skin fairness cannot be achieved overnight, nor should it be considered a universal goal. Moreover, promoting fairness perpetuates outdated ideals that do not celebrate diverse skin tones.
The ingredients in the remedy do not possess properties to lighten skin dramatically. Any temporary brightness is likely due to turmeric’s yellow tint, which might stain rather than improve the complexion.
THIP Media Take
The claim that a homemade cream can cure all skin problems in 10 minutes is false. While natural ingredients like aloe vera and turmeric may offer mild benefits, they are not miracle cures and cannot replace evidence-based skincare practices. Always rely on credible advice from dermatologists for long-term skin health.
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