HEALTH experts are warning against using a viral TikTok beauty trend involving a potentially dangerous chemical.

Experts are urging users to only use the popular chemical if they follow two non-negotiable steps.

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Experts are warning users about retinol productsCredit: Getty

Social media users have been raving about using retinol on their skin to help with anti-aging and fighting acne, but some users say they end up looking like a “burn victim” after using the product. 

One TikTok user posted a video of her skin with visible burns, saying, “You can get burnt from using retinol. I did not know that.” 

“You’re supposed to use it once a week to build up a tolerance, but I didn’t know that.”

The user said it got to the point where her skin was burning “like acid” after using the product. 

Other users have also shared videos of their skin with large red patches and burn marks going across their cheeks. 

TikTok influencer Dr. Ingky stitched the original video saying, “Retinol makes your skin sensitive to UV rays. That means just a few minutes in the sun can cause a sunburn.”

The doctor said that retinol isn’t bad and is, in fact, one of the best anti-aging products on the market, but users need to apply it correctly. 

“It’s absolutely safe to use [retinol] for acne when you’re young,” skin expert Amanda Fidani told Fox News.

“You must use it correctly, though. That’s the most important thing.

“You can use it in your early 20s and late teens for beautiful skin — you just have to be safe and educated.”

Retinol helps increase skin cell turnover, exfoliate the skin, and stimulate collagen production, which helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

“Active ingredients like retinols or acids can be extremely irritating to the skin. If retinol is layered on in large quantities or acids are left on for longer than medically advised, this can damage the skin, leading to redness, discomfort, and pigmentation,” Dr Richard Devine, plastic surgeon and co-founder of Carriages of Harley Street, told Vogue. 

“Covering the skin with masks and serums for long periods of time can block pores and lead to breakouts.”

To apply retinol properly, users should layer it with SPF and use the product only at night. 

How to use retinol

  • Use SPF sunscreen that is a 30 or higher
  • If you are outside for the day, be sure to reapply sunscreen at least every two hours
  • Check SPF expiration dates
  • Make sure your sunscreen is water-resistant or waterproof

[Source: HydroPeptide]

Experts say users should use SPF 30 or higher to effectively prevent burns, according to HydroPeptide.

The sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours and should be water-resistant or waterproof.

In addition to using SPF, users should wear hats and try to avoid direct sunlight during the summer months. 

If you do happen to get a sunburn, it’s best to avoid using retinol that day. 

Those who want to avoid the potential of burns should try and stick to using retinol just at night.