Social Media “Hacks”: DIY Sunscreen, Slugging, and More With Chris Tomassian, MD

Chris Tomassian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of The Dermatology Collective, is passionate about debunking skincare misinformation and educating the public via social media. During an interview with Dermatology Times, he said one of the most concerning trends he has seen is the rise of DIY sunscreen, where individuals attempt to create their own sun protection at home. He explains that many people mistakenly believe sunscreen is harmful or even cancerous, leading them to seek homemade alternatives. However, as he warns, “People are taking matters into their own hands, and they're like, ‘I could bake bread, so I could bake a sunscreen in my house.’” He emphasizes that commercial sunscreens go through rigorous testing to ensure they effectively block UV rays, whereas homemade versions lack the necessary stabilizers and preservatives, putting users at risk for sunburns and skin cancer.

Tomassian also addresses the broader issue of misinformation in dermatology, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok. He notes that many misleading skin care products gain traction through viral marketing and fake reviews, often promoting unproven claims without scientific backing. This has made it increasingly difficult for patients to differentiate between legitimate, research-backed treatments and trendy but ineffective solutions. “There’s no face behind the product, but it will go viral,” he explains, highlighting how the lack of regulation allows misinformation to spread unchecked.

Another major challenge he faces is the skepticism many patients now have toward established medical advice. While he acknowledges that patient advocacy and research are beneficial, he also finds himself frequently correcting misconceptions, such as the belief that isotretinoin is dangerous despite decades of clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness for severe acne. Additionally, social media has contributed to unrealistic beauty standards through filters and edited images, leading some patients to expect impossible cosmetic results. “They probably had surgery, they had all these things done,” he says, emphasizing that one syringe of filler cannot achieve the dramatic transformations often seen online.

Despite the challenges, Tomassian sees positives in social media, particularly when used to educate and inform. He praises trends like skin minimalism and skin cycling, which encourage a more thoughtful approach to skincare. Looking forward, he plans to expand his practice with a second location in Los Angeles by 2026 and is also exploring new ways to reach audiences. Through these efforts, he continues to push his mission of providing expert dermatological care while combatting misinformation in the ever-evolving world of skincare.