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| - Last Updated on October 25, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that a paste of shampoo, toothpaste and coffee can make your skin super white in just one use. We did the fact check to term this claim as false.
The Claim
A post on Threads claims you can achieve super white skin with just 2 rupees’ worth of ingredients: shampoo, toothpaste, and coffee. The video promotes this combination as a fast, effective, and affordable method to lighten skin tone, stating it is the best home remedy for fair skin.
Fact Check
Can shampoo, toothpaste, and coffee lighten skin?
No, using these ingredients will not lighten or whiten your skin. Shampoo cleans hair, while toothpaste is for dental hygiene. Though coffee can act as a natural scrub, it does not have skin-whitening properties. There is no scientific evidence to support this combination as a method for changing skin tone.
Toothpaste contains abrasive particles and chemicals like fluoride, which can irritate or damage the skin when applied. Shampoos are for hair care and they are not safe for skin use. While coffee is rich in antioxidants and can provide a temporary exfoliating effect, it does not affect melanin production, which determines natural skin colour. Coffee can also offer sun protection according to a 2015 study. A few lab studies (from 2016 and 2020) also indicate that coffee has anti-tyrosinase activity (melanin blocker). However, this effect has not been proven in humans. Other claims, such as using curd and licorice for skin lightening, also lack scientific support.
We consulted Dr Ekansh Shekhar, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Trichologist, and Aesthetic Medicine Consultant in Lucknow, for his insights on the claim about using shampoo, toothpaste and coffee for skin whitening. He expressed concerns, stating, “None of these ingredients are meant for skincare, and using them together can do more harm than good. Shampoo is formulated for hair, not skin, and can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness. Toothpaste contains abrasives and chemicals like fluoride, which may irritate the skin, causing redness, itching, or even allergic reactions. While coffee has antioxidants, there’s no evidence to suggest it can whiten skin.”
Dr Shekhar further explains, “Combining these ingredients disrupts the skin’s natural pH, resulting in irritation, dryness, and potential long-term damage. There’s also a risk of infections if unsterilized or inappropriate use occurs. Skin colour mainly depends on melanin, and this mixture won’t alter melanin production. For safe and effective skin treatments, it’s best to consult a dermatologist, who can recommend options like topical creams, chemical peels, or laser therapy based on your skin’s needs.”
What are the risks of using this paste on the skin?
Applying a mix of shampoo, toothpaste, and coffee can harm your skin. Toothpaste contains ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, which can lead to irritation, redness, and dryness. Shampoos often have sulphates and fragrances that may trigger allergic reactions or rashes. Coffee, while beneficial in some scrubs, might not be suitable for sensitive areas, especially when mixed with chemicals not meant for skin application. This unregulated combination could result in breakouts, irritation, or worse.
Why do people believe in such skin whitening remedies?
Myths about skin whitening are deeply ingrained in many cultures. These are often fuelled by social media and advertising that promote lighter skin tones in today’s age among the younger generation. The preference for fair skin in India has roots in the caste system, colonial history, and global influence. Misleading posts exploit these beauty standards, pushing quick fixes without scientific backing. Unfortunately, these claims prey on people’s desires for fairer skin, despite the potential health risks involved. Likewise, some suggest that aloe vera can replace hyaluronic acid in skincare, but such claims are often exaggerated and may lack evidence.
We spoke with Dr Annusuiya Gohil, MD Scholar at the All India Institute of Ayurveda, to get her perspective on whether home remedies can actually whiten skin. She says, “Skin fairness primarily depends on genetics, followed by the environment in which we grow up. While a lot can be done to improve skin brightness, the real skin tone cannot be changed—it can only be enhanced. More specifically, one can restore the original skin tone that may have dulled over time due to ageing, exposure to harsh environments, and factors like diet and medication. Topical applications cannot change skin colour in any way.”
What are safer alternatives for skin care?
Healthy, radiant skin comes from a proper skincare routine that includes cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection. For tackling hyperpigmentation, dermatologist-approved products such as vitamin C serums, retinoids, and niacinamide creams are safe and effective when used correctly. However, some social media claims suggest that drinking vegetable juice can help you achieve Korean skin. While a healthy diet benefits your skin, relying solely on vegetable juice will not yield the dramatic results some promote.
Ultimately, your skin colour is determined by genetics, and no over-the-counter paste or mixture can drastically alter this without risks. Consult a dermatologist before trying any new product, especially those promising significant results.
THIP Media Take
The claim that a home remedy for skin whitening using shampoo, toothpaste, and coffee works is false. Mixing these ingredients will not make your skin “super white.” This claim lacks scientific support and could potentially harm the skin. Proper skincare should prioritise safety, and significant changes in skin tone are unlikely without medical intervention.
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