Are social media users desperate for their moment in the spotlight? You might think so, given the "morning shed" trend, the new maximalist beauty routine that's taking TikTok by storm.
And it's a strange phenomenon, considering that users of the Chinese social network are usually keen to show themselves in their best light.
But all means are good when it comes to gaining popularity on the platform, even if that involves embracing the most eccentric routine of the year, which (already) boasts almost 60 million views.
So what does the "morning shed" routine actually involve?
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According to the many videos now appearing on TikTok, it's simply a matter of swapping your classic morning and evening skincare routine for a 100% nighttime-focused routine.
In other words, it involves going all out on nighttime skincare, even if that means overdoing it, so that you wake up with a glowing complexion, ready to face a new day without having to spend too long in the bathroom.
With over six million views, Courtney Snell's video (@courtneysnelll) is one of the most popular TikToks on the subject.
In it, the young woman explains that "the uglier you go to sleep, the prettier you wake up", summing up the spirit of this new routine. She can be seen removing all the skincare products and paraphernalia that she meticulously applied the night before, from a sheet mask to a cap covering her hair, a fabric eye mask and a sticky patch applied for mouth taping.
Some go even further, adding eye patches, a strap to shape the chin and facial contours, and other treatments of all kinds designed to help you wake up with glowing skin.
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But this approach seems to leave many experts perplexed.
"Not only is the theory behind its effectiveness not compelling, but there's also a lack of data to support its use, and the trend may even be harmful," board-certified dermatologist Dr Nava Greenfield told website Well+Good.
While most users are enthusiastic about this unusual routine, the comments posted under each of the videos suggest that it's a good idea to seek the advice of a (qualified) specialist, depending on your skin type – or even to stick to a less viral, but healthier and more effective beauty routine. – AFP Relaxnews
