Frozen aloe vera popsicles are trending on TikTok. Are they good for my skin?
When at-home tests were initially approved by the FDA, there was limited data about how long they lasted. Scientists used an accelerated testing approach – storing the tests at above-recommended temperatures for shorter periods of time – to determine short-term shelf life. Now that the tests have been available for much longer, manufacturers have more data to conclude the tests are effective longer than initially tested.
HOW DOES THE FDA DETERMINE THE SHELF LIFE OF COVID TESTS?
The FDA uses “stability testing” to determine the shelf life of home COVID-19 tests. Stability testing ensures that the test accurately works for as long as manufacturers say that it does. The most effective way to test shelf life is to store the test for the amount of time it’s said to last (plus a little extra) and then use the test to determine if it’s still effective. The longer the tests are on the market, the more time scientists have to test how long they remain effective.
CAN I USE AN EXPIRED COVID TEST?
No. Expiration dates mark the end of the shelf life for which the FDA and manufacturers have determined the test will work as intended. Expired tests can give inaccurate results. If the test is past the expiration date and not on the FDA website for updated expiration dates, toss it, Jahre said.
If you have seen the TikTok trend this summer to make frozen aloe vera popsicles and rub them on your skin, you might be wondering if this works and is safe for your skin.
As a dermatologist, I often tout the anti-inflammatory benefits of aloe vera for your skin. However, there are a few caveats to keep in mind when applying anything frozen to your skin.
In this column, I will go over some of the benefits of using aloe vera in your skincare routine, as well as what to watch for when trying the frozen aloe TikTok trend.
BENEFITS OF ALOE
Aloe is a type of succulent plant that is best known for its ability to soothe and cool sunburned skin, thanks to its
My childhood home always had seltzer in the refrigerator.
Not a colorful can of flavored sparkling water that we see today, rather my transplanted New York father arranged delivery of blue glass bottles that delivered a sparkling stream of cold clear seltzer. Another fact, and this is a sad one, I have problematic teeth. I didn’t give this connection much thought until my friend Susan asked me if sparkling water is bad for your teeth.
The outer structure of teeth is enamel. It is the hardest structure in the body. Enamel starts breaking down in the presence of acid. Acidic content is measured by Ph. The lower the Ph, the more acidic. The Ph of saliva ranges between 5.5-6.5. Anything with a Ph below 5.5 begins to enable enamel damage.
Water gets its sparkle by being powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe is also a type of moisturizing ingredient called a humectant, which works by drawing moisture from the air into your skin.
In addition, aloe vera also acts as an antibacterial, making it a helpful ingredient to get rid of acne and to help wounded skin heal more effectively.
While there are many topical aloe vera gel products available to buy, you can also easily harvest your own aloe gel from an aloe plant. These plants are great to keep in your kitchen in case of a burn.
FROZEN ALOE POPSICLES: WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR
As outlined above, aloe vera has many benefits to offer when applied topically to your skin. Generally speaking, trying the frozen aloe ice pop trend is safe — but there are a few cautions to keep in mind:
Frozen aloe popsicles are not ideal for all skin types. Those with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea should use caution with
Athis trend, because the frozen aloe popsicle can cause damage to the skin if applied for too long.
Ice should not be applied directly to your skin. When making a cold compress for your skin, I recommend covering an ice pack with a towel so that your skin is not directly exposed to the cold ice. If you are going to try rubbing the frozen popsicle on your skin, move it around quickly so that it does not stay in one spot for too long.
Use the frozen aloe with the correct skincare products for your Baumann Skin Type. Start with your cleanser, then use the popsicle, followed by the rest of your regimen.
If using after fillers or toxin injections, apply gently. Avoid putting a lot of pressure on your face after getting fillers or toxins like BOTOX®. However, you can gently apply frozen aloe to your skin afterwards to help reduce swelling.
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