Viral beauty hacks can harm sensitive skin; lemon, baking soda and over-scrubbing best avoided

Many beauty hacks promising glowing skin are going viral on social media these days. Some suggest applying lemon to the face, while others recommend homemade scrubs and a variety of face packs as good for the skin.

However, people with sensitive skin who try these hacks may face a number of skin problems. New products or certain ingredients can cause redness, itching, burning and dryness on sensitive skin. It is therefore important to understand the likely effect of anything before applying it to the face. Here is what sensitive skin should not be exposed to.

First, lemon. Lemon juice is acidic, so applying it directly to the face can irritate the skin. On exposure to sunlight, it can also cause a serious reaction and leave marks on the skin. To keep the face clean, use a mild cleanser.

Second, baking soda. Rubbing the face with it is not advisable, as it can upset the skin's natural pH balance. This can lead to dryness, burning and damage to the skin barrier, the protective layer of the skin. It is best avoided as a homemade face scrub.

Third, exfoliating too often. Repeated scrubbing is not needed to remove dead skin. Too much scrubbing and exfoliating products can aggravate irritation on sensitive skin. Exfoliate only as much as your skin needs.

Before applying a new skincare product to the whole face, do a patch test on a small area of skin and watch for any reaction over a few days. However, a patch test will not necessarily reveal every allergy. Anyone with a skin allergy should first consult a doctor.

Nor should every viral face pack be adopted. That something has gone viral on social media does not mean the face pack is safe for every skin type. Fragrance, scented oils and some natural ingredients can also cause allergy or irritation.

So how should sensitive skin be cared for? The simpler the skincare routine, the easier it is to identify what is causing irritation from a new product. Always clean the face with a mild cleanser or face wash. Apply a moisturiser suited to your skin type and use sunscreen regularly. Most importantly, avoid using many new products at once.