• Baking Soda: Gently abrasive, used to remove stains.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide: Provides mild bleaching properties.
  • Menthol: Offers a cooling sensation.
  • Antibacterial Agents: Help combat bacteria in the mouth.

While these ingredients are effective for cleaning teeth, their effects on skin can vary and are not their intended purpose. Some components, such as baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, might temporarily exfoliate or lighten the skin, but they could also cause irritation, especially when left on overnight.

The Supposed Method

If you're curious about this viral beauty hack, here’s how the method is described:

Ingredients:

  • Regular toothpaste (non-gel, preferably with natural or gentle ingredients)
  • Optional additions: a few drops of lemon juice or baking soda for enhanced effects

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Cleanse Your Skin: Wash your arms thoroughly to remove dirt and oils.
  2. Apply Toothpaste: Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste onto your arms and spread it evenly over the desired areas.
  3. Optional Enhancements: Mix toothpaste with lemon juice (for brightening) or baking soda (for exfoliation).
  4. Leave Overnight: Allow the toothpaste to dry completely and leave it on while you sleep.
  5. Rinse Off: In the morning, rinse your arms with lukewarm water and gently pat them dry.

Expected Results:

The claim suggests that this method will:

  • Brighten skin tone
  • Reduce dark spots or scars
  • Smooth and exfoliate the skin

The Reality Check

While the method seems simple, there are some key considerations:

1. Temporary Effects

  • Ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide may provide slight exfoliation or lightening by removing dead skin cells or superficial discoloration. However, these effects are likely temporary and superficial.

2. Skin Sensitivity

  • The skin on your arms is less sensitive than your face, but prolonged exposure to toothpaste can cause:
    • Irritation: Menthol and fluoride may lead to redness or itching.
    • Dryness: Toothpaste can strip natural oils, leaving your skin dry and flaky.
    • Burning Sensation: Stronger toothpaste formulations may cause a burning feeling, especially with sensitive skin.

3. No Proven Long-Term Benefits

  • Toothpaste is not designed for skin treatment and lacks the nutrients or active compounds needed to provide lasting benefits. For example, it does not contain hydrating agents or deep-penetrating skin-brightening ingredients.

Safer Alternatives for Skin Care

If your goal is smoother, brighter skin or scar reduction, there are better, dermatologist-approved methods:

1. For Brightening and Spot Reduction

  • Use products with vitamin C or niacinamide, which are proven to even out skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation.
  • Regular exfoliation with a gentle chemical exfoliant like AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) can help brighten skin safely.

2. For Smoother Skin

  • Apply moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to maintain hydration.
  • Use a body scrub or a loofah to gently remove dead skin cells.

3. For Scar Treatment

  • Consider products with silicone gel or retinoids to fade scars over time.
  • Natural remedies like aloe vera or rosehip oil may also help with mild scarring.