Like many of you, we scroll TikTok for hours and unapologetically at that. It seems like every day we come across new trends in beauty, fashion, music, and so much more on the app. One of the latest TikTok beauty trends we can’t stop talking about is chlorophyll water. Users are sharing their experiences with sipping on the green drink and waking up with clearer skin just a few short days later. One user on the app caused a stir with over 13 million views her viral video after one week of drinking chlorophyll-infused water. We were just as shocked by the results as everyone else, but we were curious, is chlorophyll water really worth the hype? We spoke to Dr. Corey L. Hartman, Founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, AL to shed light on the new skincare trend.
Does chlorophyll have any direct effects on the skin when consumed with water?
Researchers are just starting to look at the effects when taken orally, but there is some evidence that supports chlorophyll as an anti-aging regimen when applied topically. Chlorophyll’s natural antioxidants are thought to fight free radical damage, leading to improvement in signs of skin aging, such as decreased wrinkles and repairing DNA damage.
TikTokers are claiming that it’s helped them with acne, is this actually possible or could it be that people are just drinking more water and their skin is benefitting from the extra hydration?
Anything is possible and there may be some anecdotal accounts of success, but so far there is no empiric data to support this product’s efficacy in treating acne when taken orally. We do know that when applied topically, chlorophyll works as an antibacterial as well as an anti-inflammatory agent, so it is feasible that improvement in acne was achieved through topical application.
What are some results that people can see in their skin after drinking chlorophyll water regularly (if any)?
First, it’s important to remember that chlorophyll water doesn’t include actual chlorophyll, which is a plant pigment, but instead uses a chemical derivative called chlorophyllin. There isn’t much research to suggest that chlorophyll water can make a difference in skin. I would not recommend drinking chlorophyll water and expecting any demonstrable effects in the skin.
Are there any other benefits that people can see from adding chlorophyll water to their daily routine?
Beware of gastrointestinal upset when taking chlorophyll orally. Also, since chlorophyll can be photosensitizing, taking it orally can cause sunburn.
For more skincare tips, follow Dr. Corey L. Hartman on Instagram and TikTok!