Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1545716
96 ASCP Skin Deep Summer 2026 EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE, there's a viral social media trend so outrageous, you have to stop and stare. Such is the case with the videos of people using toothbrushes with face wash to aggressively exfoliate their skin. This trend is certainly sensationalizing, but to an unknowing client it could also be dangerous. Brian Goodwin, education development lead at Éminence Organic Skin Care, shares how to safely approach this topic in the treatment room. THE GOOD We're not going to sugarcoat it: There aren't many positives about this type of exfoliation. "Any potential benefi ts are not unique to this method and can be achieved through far more controlled and skin-safe approaches," Goodwin says. THE BAD In contrast to skin-specifi c exfoliation devices, toothbrushes are abrasive. This means they could create micro tears in the skin due to their uneven bristles. Goodwin says this exfoliation could unintentionally cause barrier disruption leading to increased transepidermal water loss, increased infl ammation and cytokine activity, potential introduction of bacteria, and increased risk of post-infl ammatory hyperpigmentation (especially for higher Fitzpatrick skin types). GETTY IMAGES THE CONCLUSION A toothbrush-inquiring client is likely seeking some type of deep exfoliation. For their at-home routines, try recommending rice powder or spherical exfoliants, exfoliating masks with enzymes, or soft facial brushes. From Éminence Organic Skin Care, Goodwin likes the Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant and Mango Exfoliating Enzyme Masque. This is also an opportunity to educate your client about the dangers of some online trends. "Eff ective education is about positive redirection rather than rejection," Goodwin says. He suggests validating the client's goal, reframing the viral method as possibly harmful, using a relatable analogy, educating on any long-term consequences, and providing alternatives. While social media videos of toothbrush exfoliation might be mesmerizing to watch, they're potentially causing more harm than good. "Eff ective and safe skin transformation comes from respecting the biology of the skin," Goodwin says. Toothbrush Exfoliation by Jen Anderson Associated Skin Care Professionals Skin Deep magazine (ISSN 1941-2495; USPS-024-571) is a quarterly magazine published by Associated Skin Care Professionals, 25188 Genesee Trail Road, Suite 200, Golden, Colorado 80401. Periodicals rate postage paid at Golden, Colorado, and additional oces. Vol. #25, Issue #3 Summer 2026. All rights reserved © 2026. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ASCP, 25188 Genesee Trail Road, Suite 200, Golden, Colorado 80401. Professional Exfoliation Options • Customized chemical peels (AHA, BHA, PHA blends) • Dermaplaning for precise physical exfoliation • Enzyme treatments • Hydrodermabrasion for exfoliation with simultaneous infusion • Microneedling (for deeper skin renewal and textural improvement) BEHIND THE TREND