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| - Last Updated on January 27, 2025 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A viral Instagram reel claims a mix of toothpaste, lemon juice, and ENO can shrink pores instantly. After fact checking, we came to know this claim is false.
The Claim
According to an Instagram reel, “Applying a mixture of toothpaste, lemon juice, and ENO powder on the face can magically shrink open pores in a single application.”
Fact Check
Is this a safe combination for the skin?
No. While toothpaste, lemon juice, and ENO may seem like harmless ingredients, combining them can be irritating and even damaging to the skin barrier.
- Toothpaste: Most toothpastes contain detergents and abrasives that can strip the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even microtears.
- Lemon Juice: High in citric acid, lemon juice can be very drying and irritating to the skin. It can also increase sun sensitivity, making you more prone to sunburn.
- ENO: Primarily used as an antacid, ENO contains sodium bicarbonate and citric acid. While it may help with heartburn, its effects on the skin are unknown and potentially irritating.
- Prolonged use: Repeated application of this mixture can weaken the skin barrier, leading to chronic dryness, redness, hyperpigmentation, and even chemical burns.
Dr Joyeeta Chowdhury, MD (Dermatology), says, “Toothpaste contains ingredients like detergents and abrasives that are not designed for the skin, especially the delicate skin on your face. Using these ingredients for long periods can lead to irritation and damage to the skin’s natural barrier.”
Dr Iram Qazi, MD (Dermatology), says, “While toothpaste is effective for cleaning teeth, it is not suitable for the skin. The strong ingredients in toothpaste can cause irritation, burning, and redness. I do not recommend using toothpaste for treating skin problems, as it can worsen the condition.”
Dr Swati Watwani, Medical Director at Persianlily Clinic, says, “Baking soda is highly alkaline and can disrupt the natural pH of your skin. This can lead to irritation, moisture loss, and sensitivity. The abrasive nature of baking soda can also cause excessive exfoliation, making the skin drier and more prone to rashes and dark spots.”
Dr Neha Khurana, MD (Dermatology), says, “DIY skin treatments like using toothpaste can be harmful. The skin’s natural pH is acidic, and using products with a basic pH, like toothpaste, can upset this balance. This can lead to dryness, irritation, peeling, and even allergic reactions like contact dermatitis.”
On a related note, social media posts also recommend applying a paste of shampoo, toothpaste, and coffee to whiten skin.
Does this mixture of toothpaste, lemon and ENO powder actually shrink pores?
No, not really. Open pores are a natural part of everyone’s skin. They are the openings for hair follicles and sebaceous glands. While some products can temporarily tighten the skin and make pores appear smaller, they cannot permanently shrink them.
- Toothpaste, lemon, and ENO do not contain any ingredients known to shrink pores.
- Temporary tightening: The tingling sensation you might feel from this mixture is likely due to irritation, not pore shrinkage. This temporary tightening effect is not sustainable and can worsen the appearance of pores over time.
We spoke with Dr Rashi Soni, Co-founder and Consulting Dermatologist, Aesthetician, and Hair Transplant Surgeon at Rashi Hospital in Mumbai, to get her insights on home remedies for reducing pore size. She explains, “Pore size depends on genetics, age, and sun exposure. While your genes set your natural pore size, ageing and sun damage can make pores appear larger over time. Home remedies may temporarily clean and unclog pores, improving skin texture, but they won’t permanently shrink pores or reverse the effects of ageing. For more lasting results, professional treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy from a dermatologist are more effective.”
Similarly, some people recommend rubbing tomatoes on the skin to reduce pore size naturally, but this claim is not accurate.
Are there any safer alternatives for shrinking pores?
Yes, there are safer alternatives for managing the appearance of pores. Gentle exfoliation with mild acids like salicylic acid or glycolic acid can help clear out pores and improve their appearance. Hydrating products, such as moisturisers with hyaluronic acid, can also help keep the skin plump, making pores appear smaller. Always choose products that suit your skin type and avoid harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.
THIP Media Take
The claim that a DIY remedy using toothpaste, lemon juice, and ENO can shrink pores instantly is false. While the desire for perfect skin is understandable, there is no single remedy for shrinking pores. It’s crucial to prioritise gentle, skincare products formulated for your skin type. Consulting a dermatologist is recommended for personalised advice and treatment options. Always practise caution and choose gentle, skin-friendly products. If you have any concerns about your skin, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance from a dermatologist.
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