TikTok is obsessed with frozen beauty blenders, but is this makeup hack safe?

As of late, frozen beauty blenders have been taking up space next to ice cube trays and bags of peas, all in the name of a flawless look. As you might've imagined, TikTok is responsible for this new beauty phenomenon. 

Rather than use the tool as is, cosmetics enthusiasts insist that wetting makeup sponges, freezing them for one hour and then using them to apply foundation is the key to impeccable, albeit cold, results. 

TikTok beauty hacks are aplenty, but it's always best to approach the latest fad with a cautious mindset. (As you might recall, TikTokers are also using lube as base makeup, a move both makeup artists and dermatologists wholeheartedly reject.) 

So, freezing beauty blenders? Is it a good idea? Considering the viral status, many are considering giving it a go.  

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Frozen beauty blenders: the origins of a trend

TikTok user @gwmakeup gifted us with the idea of putting our sponges in the freezer to obtain a "smooth & flawless finish." More than 2 million views,170,000 likes and nearly 1,000 comments later, it appears we have a trend on our hands. 

In her video, we catch the young makeup artist making good on her promise: freezing the blender, applying foundation and using her ice-cold tool to put on her makeup. The results? A dolphin skin glow that she accompanies with a bold pink lip and even bolder lashes. 

After the Kylie Jenner-esque results began circulating, copycat videos have been created where makeup influencers are striving for the same results. It's the cool new thing to do...literally. 

@gwmakeup

For a smooth & flawless finish try this!✨ ##viral ##makeuphack ##beautyblender ##foundationhack

♬ som original - 𝒈𝒓𝒖𝒏𝒈𝒆.🖤

Is it safe to use frozen beauty blenders?

Commenters were quick to report their results on @gwmakeup's video.

"My skin looks awesome with this technique," one TikTok user wrote. 

"It feels good using it cold," another confirmed. 

However, there were plenty of naysayers amongst the beauty community and those skeptical of the creator's filters. But when it comes to the method itself, even the professionals are wary.

New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Doris Day thinks this is a trend that users are better off skipping. For one, it could cause redness that affects your blood vessels. Ultimately, it doesn't really impact your final results, either. 

"I don't know why you'd get a more even application and can't think of the benefits," Dr. Day says. "It's not a great idea, but cold is a different story."

If you're looking for a slightly different feel, she does confirm that it's OK to use a cold sponge or one at room temperature, as we typically do. 

How to clean a beauty blender properly

Beauty enthusiasts also have to take into account the cleanliness of their sponges, since it's not uncommon for bacteria to build up on these products, especially if you're using them frequently. Be sure to have a look at the expert tips for how to clean a beauty blender properly, which makes your application process all the safer. 

As for the nods to Princess Elsa throughout TikTok—frozen skin sticks, the frozen cucumber hack—consult a dermatologist before attempting anything that could potentially cause a freeze burn.