Beauty hack slides the slippery slope

Beauty trends are like TikTok dances – they go viral and then are forgotten. Guess what the latest beauty hack is – Durex lubricant as a makeup primer! TikTok and Instagram have stirred up curiosity, confusion, and concern over this latest beauty hack. The idea is simple – apply lubricant as a base before foundation. Advocates of this trend claim it creates a smooth, dewy canvas for makeup application, allowing the foundation to last longer.

Lube Allure

This beauty hack started making waves when influencers decided to ditch their pricey primers in favour of something far more... unconventional. Personal lubricants are known for their smooth, slippery texture, and beauty enthusiasts quickly realized it might give them that same dewy, soft canvas that many primers promise.
Personal lubricants are typically associated with intimate use, not makeup application. So, when influencers began showing their audiences how to apply a dollop of lube gel on their faces and blend it in as part of their routine, it raised more than a few eyebrows. The unexpected nature of the trend undoubtedly contributed to its viral nature.

Slippery Surfaces

So, why exactly does lube seem to give some makeup lovers a wow moment? It all comes down to texture. Lubricant is smooth, glowy, and slip-tastic, just like
a traditional primer. When applied before foundation, it gives the skin a silky surface, making makeup glide on with minimal effort. The idea is that it creates a smooth canvas, hiding pores and giving the skin that coveted dewy finish that’s all the rage right now.

Doctors Warning

While the idea of using lube as a makeup primer seems harmless, there are concerns of the potential for skin irritation. Personal lubricants, even those designed for sensitive skin, are not formulated to be used as part of a skincare routine. Dr. Bansari Davda, a Consultant Aesthetic Dermatologist and Trichologist warns, “It’s definitely not safe to use a personal lubricant as a primer. Its thickness can clog the pores, leading to blackheads, whiteheads by trapping dirt and bacteria under the skin. It can lead to full-blown breakouts.” She also explains that the ingredients, such as spermicide and oils, can cause skin irritation and even contact dermatitis. “Your facial skin is not the same as your genitals. The anatomy, structure, and sensitivity are different, so what is made for genitals is not going to work for your face,” she adds.

Smooth Operator

But what seems good in theory doesn’t always work in practice. Some people might love the dewy look, while others – especially those with oily skin – might feel like their face is a slip-n-slide. Traditional makeup primers can sometimes be expensive, and some individuals may be looking for an affordable alternative. The simplicity of using a product, which is widely available and relatively inexpensive, adds to the allure of this unconventional beauty hack.

Another reason why this hack could be gaining popularity is the growing demand for more dewy and natural makeup looks. matte finishes, while still popular, are slowly being overshadowed by a preference for glowing skin that looks fresh and hydrated.

Users claim that lube helps foundation apply smoothly and evenly, especially for those with dry skin. The product’s hydrating and smoothing properties are said to leave the skin feeling soft and supple. Many individuals who struggle with foundation settling into pores or uneven texture may find the hack appealing for its ability to smooth over such imperfections.

Getting Too Slick

As with many beauty trends that go viral on social media, the lube makeup primer hack may eventually fizzle out. Although it has caught the attention of beauty lovers, its long-term viability remains in question. Furthermore, lubricants often contain a range of chemicals and additives that may not be suitable for use on the face. Dr Bansari explains that, “some of its ingredients present in lubricant like spermicide, oils can lead to skin irritation and allergies and can even lead to contact dermatitis.” Some lubricants are designed to be long-lasting, which means they could create a layer that is difficult to remove completely. If not washed off properly, these residues could lead to buildup, potentially clogging pores and causing other skin issues.

Face Value

The lube makeup primer trend is just one example of how the beauty community continues to push the envelope with unexpected hacks. Whether or not this trend has staying power remains to be seen, but it has certainly sparked a conversation about the versatility of beauty products and the boundaries between personal care and makeup. While some may find it effective and fun, others should approach the trend with caution and consider the potential risks to their skin. Dr. Bansari recommends sticking with traditional primers that are formulated for the face. “I would recommend just using what is made for your face, i.e. primer. It will be tailored to your skin type and can help you avoid all the unnecessary pain of skin allergies and breakouts!” As always, when experimenting with beauty trends, it’s important to prioritise skin health and ensure that the products used are safe and appropriate for your individual needs.