Cucumbers have been making headlines on TikTok for various reasons of late, from taking centerstage in a refreshing and spicy salad recipe to being used on the skin. And we’re not just talking about using cucumber slices to de-puff the eyes—a well-loved beauty trick that even our mothers swear by.
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With more than 1.7 million views on TikTok, the #cucumberhack hashtag sees users massaging a frozen cucumber on their face for various effects. But before we delve into the hack, here’s why the humble vine plant’s so sought after in the beauty world.
Not only do cucumbers taste good, they also offer soothing and cooling benefits, especially for those with sensitive and easily-irritated skin. The plant’s anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and morning puffiness for skin that shine with a natural glow.
@mireyarios Frozen cucumber hack ? vc: @Brittanie Nash #skincarehacks #frozencucumber #cucumberhack #frozencucumberhack #iceontheface #tiktokmademedoit #tiktokmademetryit #tiktokmademe ♬ original sound - Mireya Rios
Here’s how to do it:
Put a cucumber in the freezer
Similar to the skin icing trend, freezing the cucumber allows it to be used as a form of cryotherapy or ice therapy that can lower the temperature of the skin. This is said to help reduce inflammation, redness, and puffiness, while stimulating blood circulation.
Slice the cucumber
To ensure freshness, only slice the cucumber right before use. If you’re hoping to reuse the same cucumber, seal the cross-section and refreeze before slicing it again for your next use.
Massage your skin
In most of the #cucumberhacks videos on TikTok, users massage their skin with the cucumber’s cross-section in a manner similar to a facial roller or a facial gua sha. Think of making upward movements along your jawline and cheekbones, gradually working towards your hairline.
Our verdict?
While massaging your face with a cucumber can give it temporary relief from redness and puffiness, it’s hard to ascertain if using it regularly will reduce the appearance of blemishes or even keep acne at bay, as some TikTokers have claimed.
If you’ve got skin sensitivity, it might be wise to check in with your skin doctor before slathering cucumber on your face. A possible alternative might be ice cubes, which is more likely to stay chilled longer than a cucumber.
More TikTok trends here:
