TikTok Announces Expanded Mental Health Support, Including Meditation Prompts In-App
TikTok's looking to help you remain in a healthy frame of mind, with in-app guided meditation, and expanded support for mental health services, which will enable more users to get assistance as required via the app.
First off, on meditation. TikTok's rolling out a new guided meditation feature, which will take you through the meditation process in-app.
As you can see in these examples, TikTok's guided meditation will display animated on-screen prompts that you can follow along with, helping to regulate your breathing, and calm your mind.
The new function will be built into TikTok's sleep prompts, helping users take a break from the app.
As per TikTok:
'Research shows that mindful meditation can improve sleep quality in people of all ages, so we'll also introduce Meditation in Sleep Hours to all our users, regardless of their age. For teens under age 18, it will be turned on by default. If a teen decides to use TikTok after 10pm, their For You feed will be interrupted by a guided meditation exercise, helping them wind down for the night.'
So you'll now be nudged to stop scrolling and start relaxing, which TikTok says has proven beneficial this far:
'In our testing, 98% of the teens who meditated with TikTok decided to keep the meditation experience switched on.'
Meditation has different levels of benefit for different people, but having these prompts built in, and displayed to a wide audience, could help to raise awareness of relaxation tactics, and how you can regulate yourself as required.
TikTok's also partnering with child psychiatrist Dr. Willough Jenkins on a new series that'll showcase the Meditation in Sleep Hours feature in action.
Finally, TikTok's also donating $2.3 million in ad credits to 31 mental health organizations in 22 countries around the world, as an expansion of its Mental Health Education Fund.
The ad credits will help these organizations connect with in-need TikTok users, which could have expanded support and assistance benefits.
Given TikTok's reach and popularity, particularly with impressionable younger users, these are important initiatives, which should help to connect more users with assistance that they can apply for themselves, along with professional services.
And they may also help to reassure regulators as to how TikTok is looking to care for teens. Several regions are considering higher age restrictions on social media apps, in order to limit their mental health impacts.
But maybe, with more in-app measures in place, that'll help to ease concerns on this front, and enable TikTok to reach more users.
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Yahoo
6 hours ago
- Yahoo
A doctor explains what people should know about the ‘cortisol cocktail' that's gone viral on TikTok
(CNN) — If you've spent time on TikTok or Instagram lately, chances are the 'cortisol cocktail' trending as the latest wellness hack has appeared in your feed. This colorful, nonalcoholic drink typically contains a mix of coconut water, citrus juice and certain salts. Also called an 'adrenal cocktail,' it has amassed millions of views, with influencers claiming it can lower stress hormones, boost energy and balance your body's adrenal function. Almost half of Americans (49%) report frequent bouts of stress, and the number of people in the United States who are feeling stressed has been rising for the past two decades, according to a 2024 Gallup survey. In these uncertain times, a stress-relieving tonic feels just right as a soothing balm, but does it actually live up to the health claims? What is cortisol and its relationship to stress? What nutrients are in these drinks and how are they purported to influence cortisol? Do they work? Who should be wary of trying this concoction? To guide us through these questions, I spoke with CNN wellness expert Dr. Leana Wen. Wen is an emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University. She previously was Baltimore's health commissioner. CNN: What is cortisol and its relationship to stress? Dr. Leana Wen: Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are organs located above the kidneys. The hormone plays a vital role in many bodily functions, including regulating metabolism, blood sugar, blood pressure, sleep-wake cycles and immune responses. Cortisol is sometimes called the 'stress hormone' because its levels naturally rise when our bodies perceive a threat or stressful situation. This reaction is part of the body's 'fight-or-flight' response, helping people stay alert and react quickly when needed. Those temporary increases in cortisol are a helpful evolutionary adaptation. Problems can arise when cortisol levels stay elevated for prolonged periods of time, which can happen when someone is under chronic stress. Persistently elevated cortisol is linked to problems such as poor sleep, anxiety, high blood pressure and even weakened immunity. There are a number of medical conditions that can lead to abnormally high or low cortisol levels. Taking high doses of steroid medications or adrenal gland tumors are examples of conditions that can cause excess cortisol. Addison's disease, or primary adrenal insufficiency, is when the adrenal gland stops its usual function. This condition, and problems with the pituitary gland in the brain, could result in low cortisol levels. CNN: What is in these 'cortisol cocktail' drinks, and how are they purported to influence cortisol? Wen: Recipes vary, but they tend to have a combination of coconut water, juice (usually orange or some other citrus fruit) and some salts (commonly sea salt and/or magnesium). Sparkling water is often added to taste. Contrary to what the name may suggest, it typically does not contain any alcohol. Each of the primary ingredients is supposed to play a role in supporting adrenal function and lowering stress. Coconut water is high in potassium, which helps maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balance. Citrus juice offers vitamin C, which plays a role in adrenal gland function. Salt and magnesium are supposed to replenish minerals depleted by stress. Moreover, some researchers believe that magnesium itself may help reduce feelings of anxiety or stress. Because of this, some versions of the cortisol cocktail include magnesium powder and/or cream of tartar, which has a high concentration of magnesium along with potassium and other salts. CNN: Is there evidence that this drink actually lowers cortisol and reduces stress? Wen: There is no scientific evidence that this drink has the effects it purports. While it's true that nutrients such as potassium, vitamin C and magnesium are important for healthy adrenal function, they are typically obtained in adequate amounts through a balanced diet. Bananas are the classic food high in potassium, but many others are packed with this mineral, too, such as raisins, apricots and tuna. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits, strawberries and peppers. And magnesium is also in many foods, including beans, peanut butter and leafy green vegetables. True deficiencies in these nutrients can cause health problems, but such deficiencies are uncommon in otherwise healthy individuals. More importantly, there is no evidence that consuming extra amounts beyond what the body needs will provide additional benefits or that it will meaningfully lower cortisol levels. CNN: What about the claim that the drink can treat a condition that influencers call 'adrenal fatigue'? Wen: The claim that some influencers have promoted on social media is that there is a condition of 'adrenal fatigue' in which stress is overwhelming adrenal glands and people end up feeling tired, anxious and unable to cope with daily life. However, the symptoms could stem from a variety of causes, including poor sleep, mental health conditions, and undiagnosed diseases such as anemia, hypothyroidism and diabetes. Importantly, there is no recognized medical diagnosis of adrenal fatigue. Outside of cases in which there are specific diseases causing adrenal insufficiency, there is no evidence that somehow the adrenal glands get overwhelmed and lose their ability to function. The symptoms often attributed to adrenal fatigue are real, but they are better explained by other, well‑studied causes. One risk I see is that people might rely on this so-called remedy instead of seeking medical evaluation for the real issues behind their fatigue or stress. CNN: What about all the people on the internet who claim that they have had positive health outcomes as a result of this drink? Wen: It may be that some individuals were not getting enough fluids or electrolytes before, and the additional hydration from the drink helped them feel more energized or clearheaded. There is also the placebo effect to consider: When people expect a certain treatment to work, they may genuinely feel better simply because they believe they are doing something beneficial for their health. The ritual of making and drinking this drink could itself reinforce this sense of control and care, which can have real psychological benefits even if the drink's ingredients have no direct impact on cortisol. CNN: Who should be wary of trying this so-called tonic? Wen: People who should be cautious include individuals with chronic medical conditions such as kidney disease, heart disease and diabetes. Certain individuals with kidney disease need to be especially wary of food containing high amounts of potassium. Those with heart failure may be advised to restrict their fluid intake. The sugar in fruit juice may also be problematic for some people with diabetes. Individuals interested in this drink should check with their doctor before adding this or any influencer-promoted wellness product to their diet. They should ask if any of their medications might interact with the drink's ingredients. And if they are experiencing symptoms — such as fatigue, anxiety or trouble sleeping — that prompted them to try this cocktail, they should discuss these concerns with their doctor to determine whether further evaluation is needed. Get inspired by a weekly roundup on living well, made simple. Sign up for CNN's Life, But Better newsletter for information and tools designed to improve your well-being.
New York Post
7 hours ago
- New York Post
I did a parasite cleanse with herbs you haven't heard of — what TikTok won't tell you
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. When was the last time you dewormed yourself? 'When we did my seven-year-old's cleanse, day eleven was the day we saw the worms,' shared Nicole Marso, a creator who identifies herself as a 'Holistic Mama' on her TikTok page. As a health and wellness writer, it's not unusual for me to come across some unconventional health protocols. But when my algorithm started feeding me ads from people talking about taking herbal parasite cleanses and passing worms the length of a pencil, I couldn't just keep scrolling. As it turns out, parasitic infections are far more common than most people think, and in some countries, 'deworming' is considered a typical seasonal wellness routine. Symptoms are vague, including unexplained constipation, diarrhea, or bloating, which can easily be mistaken for other digestive issues. Fatigue is also common, as parasites can deplete essential nutrients. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 25% of the world's population has an infection related to an intestinal parasite. Cases are even higher in tropical and subtropical regions with limited access to clean water and sanitation. Certain cultures have been using herbs to expel parasites for centuries. In traditional Chinese medicine, pumpkin seeds, betel nuts, and sweet wormwood were used to treat a range of conditions, including tapeworm disease and malaria parasites. Today, modern parasite cleanses are gaining attention on social media, as people turn to data that suggests infections are closer to home than some might realize. The CDC estimates that 60 million people in the United States may carry some form of parasitic infection, often without knowing it. Even simple everyday activities can result in parasite exposure — consuming undercooked meat, drinking contaminated water, or swimming in lakes or rivers. Parasite cleanses are not for everyone. The FDA has not approved or evaluated parasite cleanse products and has also issued some warnings over labeling, safety, and effectiveness of certain cleanse kits. Some doctors have warned that parasite cleanses could also eliminate 'good bacteria' in the gut, and certain herbal and dietary supplements have also been linked to HDS-induced liver injury. As with any supplement, people need to consult their physicians before starting a detox protocol. Curious, skeptical, and just a little bit grossed out, I decided to (gently) dive into the world of parasite cleanses — first speaking with medical experts, and then trying the Touchstone Essentials' Para-Shield Herbal Cleanse myself. While a range of DIY-cleanses circulate on social media — including everything from herbal teas to ionic footbaths — there are also some scientifically-tested herbal remedies on the market. Touchstone Essentials offers Para-Shield, an herbal blend that is formulated to support the body's natural cleansing efforts and create an inhospitable environment for unwelcome visitors. Para-Shield incorporates Black Walnut Hull, Clove, and Wormwood, which are said to support the body's protective functions against microorganisms naturally. For further immune support, the blend also delivers essential antioxidants from Clove, Barberry Root, Ginger Root, and Yuzu. 'With a healthy gut, the body can better defend itself against external threats,' explained Eddie Stone, the founder and CEO of Touchstone Essentials, a leading e-commerce detox and wellness brand that offers natural wellness solutions, including cleanse supplements. Stone believes that natural parasite cleanses can effectively target a wide range of harmful organisms, while also restoring balance in the digestive system. 'Supporting the gut lining — the intestinal barrier — can ease digestion, reduce inflammation, and help the body return to a more balanced state overall,' Stone explained. Touchstone Essentials Para-Shield Review We tested Para-Shield, an all-natural supplement rooted in hundreds of years of research and ancient medicine. The tincture, which comes in a 21-day supply, is formulated to help the body eliminate gut intruders and support digestive health for adults and children. How it Works According to Touchstone Essentials' website, Para-Shield offers a powerful yet gentle blend of organic herbs to help create an inhospitable environment for unwanted organisms in the body. For someone new to parasite cleanses (myself included), that might leave more questions than answers. For adults, the directions are simple. Take 10 drops twice a day for 3 weeks. For optimal results, it is recommended to take it on an empty stomach. After the first three weeks, pause for one week, then repeat as needed. Para-Shield is also a suitable parasite cleanse for kids. Children ages 3 and up can take 5 drops per serving. And no, according to Stone, you don't need to have any symptoms of parasite exposure to take Para-Shield and reap the benefits. As someone who hasn't experienced any major issues indicative of parasite exposure (think nausea, abdominal pain, insomnia, etc.), I'm still safe to take Para-Shield for gut support and long-term health. 'Para-Shield is an herbal gut cleanse with a specialized formula that helps the body defend against microorganisms, supports gut detox, and soothes digestion,' Stone explained, adding that Para-Shield is a more gentle alternative to harsh pharmaceutical cleanses, including enemas and colonics. Black Walnut Hull, a key ingredient in Para-Shield, has been studied for its ability to kill unwanted microorganisms. Wormwood has been traditionally used for digestive issues, and Barberry Root, a natural antioxidant, is believed to help with cleansing and promote a healthy gut lining. Other ingredients like Ginger and Yuzu are added to help soothe the digestive system. While cleansing with Para-Shield, Stone recommends drinking an ample amount of water to help the body flush out toxins. It's also beneficial to eat a clean, nutrient-rich diet full of fiber, which works alongside the herbal cleanse to detox the digestive system. While each person is different, Stone suggests a minimum of three months for a thorough cleanse. Possible Benefits Removal of unwanted parasites Restoration of the gut microbiome Liver and kidney support Increased energy Reduced bloating Improved nutrient absorption Reduced stress Better sleep Clearer, smoother skin When I began taking Para-Shield, my expectations were not very high. I test supplements for a living, and it's rare for me to experience anything notable worth writing about. With previous gut health supplements and probiotics, I've experienced a little less bloating, a bit more energy, and maybe a few fewer skin breakouts. But, nothing mind-blowing. After sifting through Para-Shield reviews, my hopes got a little higher. Most supplements require a few months of consistent use to achieve the benefits. Para-Shield users have reported symptom alleviation in the first few weeks of use, including improvements in bloating, constipation, gut discomfort, as well as skin irritation. 'After cleansing, some people report healthy and regular digestion, reduced hunger and cravings, and improved energy levels,' Stone explained. 'Most people report feeling less bloating, a soothed stomach, and more regular bowel movements.' All of this sounds great on paper, but consistency is key. Fortunately, it's very easy to take Para-Shield, and the flavor is not bad at all (think sweet-and-light ginger-clove-yuzu). My friend who tasted it compared it to a mocktail. I plopped the drops directly into my mouth using the provided dispenser, but the tincture also mixes easily in water. After the first week of my cleanse, I felt pretty much the same overall, aside from a few more trips to the restroom. I didn't notice any dramatic physical changes, but there were no concerning side effects either — just better regularity. The only mildly inconvenient part was remembering to take it twice a day, especially on an empty stomach. But by week 3, I wanted to take it even more (yes, you can double the serving size for a more intensive cleanse). It's not easy to transcribe into words, but my digestive system felt like it had taken a three-week-long retreat and could suddenly relax. I was full after all my meals, less bloated, and more relaxed. My sugar cravings? Nearly gone. The number on the scale? Down, a tad. The biggest change? My energy. I had so much more that, for once, I looked forward to working out instead of dreading it. It's hard to say whether the supplement alone was responsible for these improvements, or if my fiber-rich diet played a role too. Either way, I was genuinely pleased with the results. And for the record, no, I didn't see any worms. Side-effects Here's where it can get a little scary. While Para-Shield does not report any expected side effects, individual responses may vary. In general, cleanses and detoxes are associated with a variety of possible short-term and long-term risks that you should be aware of. Take the aforementioned trips to the bathroom — very common. If you have somewhere to be, don't count on taking the tincture and getting there in time. Beyond increased bowel movements, it's also possible to experience vitamin or nutrient deficiencies, diarrhea (which can lead to dehydration), and other GI issues, per the Cleveland Clinic. According to Touchstone Essentials, 'die-off' symptoms can also occur as unwanted microorganisms are expelled from the body. The release of endotoxins can trigger a temporary reaction of discomfort in the digestive system, causing short-term fatigue. The symptoms should pass quickly, but users are instructed to stop the cleanse if they experience any more pronounced symptoms. Fortunately, I didn't experience any major side effects while taking Para-Shield for 21 days. No digestive discomfort, no headaches, no bloating, no lethargy, etc. I did take some precautions; I drank what felt like gallons of water a day to curb dehydration and tried my best to stick to a plant-based diet, incorporating lots of colorful fruits and veggies and skipping most processed foods (besides a slice of pizza or two). Despite my generally positive detox experience, I'm still cautious when recommending any cleanse program. Just because it's right for someone does not mean it's right for you. Para-Shield is not intended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the cleansing herbs. Some ingredients could also interact with other medications, which is why it's very important to consult your physician before use. Pros and Cons Pros: Para-Shield incorporates clinically studied, time-tested herbal ingredients that support detoxification and gut health at the same time The customer reviews lean very positive on taste, tolerance, and symptom improvement, with benefits being noticed in the first few weeks of use Para-Shield is vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and free from synthetic additives and fillers Cons: Para-Shield is not suitable for pregnant women, and it's possible that it could cause detox symptoms and interfere with other medications (always consult a physician before use) Requires consistent use for best results, and adults must take ten drops twice a day (preferably on an empty stomach) Final Thoughts My TikTok #foryoupage is nothing short of wild, and I'm no stranger to some woo-woo remedies. I've covered everything from testosterone treatment and heavy metal detoxes to anti-aging supplements that tout cellular repair. Very few protocols I've tested firsthand have delivered identifiable benefits. A detox works a little differently since your body is actively flushing out unwanted substances. It's often easier to tell when it's doing its job, because that process usually leads to faster, more frequent digestion (nature calls) as well as an overall sense of lightness. Temporarily, it may show on the scale, too. However, that might not translate to long-term benefits. As someone who tried a parasite cleanse without an awareness of having parasites, I was generally very impressed with the results. Sure, it's not the most convenient routine to take ten drops twice a day, but after noticing less bloating, fewer cravings, and more energy, I thought it was well worth it. For just $49, I think it's more than a reasonable investment to make in your overall health. How We Tested In order to evaluate the Touchstone Essentials Para-Shield herbal cleanse, I followed a structured 21-day protocol, mirroring the instructions on the website and the back of the bottle. Before, during, and after testing, I considered ease of use, side effects, internal and external benefits, and overall value. I also consulted Eddie Stone, the founder and CEO of Touchstone Essentials, for answers to frequently asked questions about parasite cleanses. Ease of use: A cleanse protocol should be simple for any person to follow and integrate into their daily routine. I considered the required serving size (10 drops) as well as the frequency (twice a day) for 21 days, to make note of how easy it was to stick with the detox program. It is also recommended to take Para-Shield on an empty stomach, so users must consider planning their meals accordingly. A cleanse protocol should be simple for any person to follow and integrate into their daily routine. I considered the required serving size (10 drops) as well as the frequency (twice a day) for 21 days, to make note of how easy it was to stick with the detox program. It is also recommended to take Para-Shield on an empty stomach, so users must consider planning their meals accordingly. Side effects: It's important to consider that parasite cleanses can be accompanied by a range of potential side effects, including dehydration, headaches, frequent bowel movements, and reduced energy associated with 'die-off' symptoms, as well as other potential GI tract issues. I monitored any symptoms closely, keeping a journal, logging any adverse physical or mental side effects. It's important to consider that parasite cleanses can be accompanied by a range of potential side effects, including dehydration, headaches, frequent bowel movements, and reduced energy associated with 'die-off' symptoms, as well as other potential GI tract issues. I monitored any symptoms closely, keeping a journal, logging any adverse physical or mental side effects. Benefits: The goal of a parasite cleanse is to eliminate parasites and alleviate symptoms of parasite exposure, which can range from diarrhea and abdominal pain to bloating and nausea. While taking Para-Shield, I tracked any improvements in digestion, energy, skin tone, and noted whether I was craving any certain foods, as well as how 'full' I felt after meals. The goal of a parasite cleanse is to eliminate parasites and alleviate symptoms of parasite exposure, which can range from diarrhea and abdominal pain to bloating and nausea. While taking Para-Shield, I tracked any improvements in digestion, energy, skin tone, and noted whether I was craving any certain foods, as well as how 'full' I felt after meals. Overall Value: At $49.00 a bottle for a 21-day supply, I evaluated the cost, safety, and effectiveness of the herbs used in Para-Shield for parasite removal and gut health support. I considered the requirements of upping water intake and the recommended dietary changes to evaluate the ease of Para-Shield parasite cleanse, while comparing it to other supplements and detox protocols I've tested. This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter. As a health-forward member of Gen Z, Miska seeks out experts to weigh in on the benefits, safety and designs of both trending and tried-and-true fitness equipment, workout clothing, dietary supplements and more. Taking matters into her own hands, Miska intrepidly tests wellness products, ranging from Bryan Johnson's Blueprint Longevity Mix to home gym elliptical machines to Jennifer Aniston's favorite workout platform – often with her adorable one-year old daughter by her side. Before joining The Post, Miska covered lifestyle and consumer topics for the U.S. Sun and The Cannon Beach Gazette.
Newsweek
7 hours ago
- Newsweek
We Asked Doctors About Kim Kardashian's $68 'Face Wraps'—They All Agreed
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Kim Kardashian's latest addition to her SKIMS empire—a collagen-infused face wrap—has sparked a flurry of concern among industry professionals who argue the product, despite its sleek design and celebrity backing, offers little to no real cosmetic benefit. The Seamless Sculpt Face Wrap, priced at $68, claims to "boast our signature sculpting fabric and features collagen yarns for ultra-soft jaw support," according to the SKIMS website. A spokesperson for the brand told Newsweek: "We changed the shape wear game forever—and we're not done. [We are] introducing the Seamless Sculpt Face Wrap: a must-have addition to your nightly routine." Promoted as a nightly tool to lift and contour the jawline, the wrap promises a blend of innovation within the booming beauty industry. But dermatologists, plastic surgeons and aesthetic doctors are skeptical, warning that the wrap's promises may not hold up under clinical scrutiny. The face wrap appears to have drawn inspiration from a wider trend in beauty culture—particularly the rise of "natural facelifts," face taping, and the so-called "morning shed" phenomenon on TikTok. But experts are clear: the product's appeal as a surgical-grade beauty tool may be more fiction than fact. "This face wrap seems to be essentially a compression garment that mimics a post-surgical facial wrap often used after procedures like a facelift, neck lift, or neck liposuction," Ari Hoschander, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon based in New York, told Newsweek. "These types of compression garments are used all the time in a medical context to help reduce swelling and provide support during healing." Hoschander was blunt about the product's practical implications for consumers that have not been through a surgery. Kim Kardashian attends SKIMS flagship store opening in Midtown on December 12, 2024 in New York City (L) and a model wearing the new SKIMS face wrap on the brand's website (R). Kim Kardashian attends SKIMS flagship store opening in Midtown on December 12, 2024 in New York City (L) and a model wearing the new SKIMS face wrap on the brand's website (R). "For the average person, the most this product might do is provide a temporary feeling of lift or contour while it's being worn," the plastic surgeon said. "That effect will undoubtedly go away once you take the wrap off, like taking off tight shapewear at the end of a night out." And it is not just about effectiveness—there are safety concerns too. "There's no evidence that this type of garment will sculpt the jawline or deliver any lasting cosmetic benefit," Hoschander said, adding, "I would really not recommend this for anyone looking to get any sort of aesthetic outcome from it." Instead, Hoschander advised those seeking facial firming to opt for tried-and-true topical treatments. "If you're looking for firming, you're better off investing in a retinol than wrapping your face in compression lycra," he said. On TikTok, the pushback was equally direct. One plastic surgeon, using the handle @drspiegel, posted a video warning: "I'm afraid [Kim Kardashian] you're going to lose a lot of credibility with this one, this is not going to do anything. If you have collagen yarns, what does that mean? It's not going through the skin, it's in the fabric." A New York City dermatologist, @toralvaidyamd, echoed the sentiment in another TikTok post. Her caption read: "I'm afraid it's a no from me Kim." She added that the "collagen yarn" feature was just marketing jargon and would not deliver tangible benefits to the skin. The skepticism is not just about efficacy—it also touches on the wider implications of promoting surgical aesthetics in a consumer-friendly package. "In this instance, a face wrap is essentially a compression garment for the face," Nikita Desai, an aesthetic doctor at the Harley Street Skin Clinic, told Newsweek. "It's marketed as a beauty tool that's designed to lift and sculpt your face by applying pressure similar to that of a compression garment you'd wear on your body." Desai sees a clear link between the face wrap's design and 2024's viral "morning shed" trend on TikTok, which embraced the concept that "the uglier you sleep, the prettier you wake up." She noted that the product's muted surgical tones appear to deliberately reference medical-grade gear. "The color choice itself is strikingly similar to surgical compressions, which feels like a purposeful choice seeing as the Kardashians have frequently discussed cosmetic surgery," she said. Desai said the wrap may offer short-term de-puffing—akin to a surgical garment reducing swelling—but warned against expecting more. "Wraps of this kind can't offer any permanent changes such as facial contouring, remodel fat or even boost collagen production," she said. "Any changes you see will reverse in a matter of hours as the compression loses its effect." She was also quick to warn about possible risks from extended use. "It can restrict circulation, which in this case could cause facial swelling—the opposite of providing a 'snatched jawline,'" she said. "It could also irritate the skin and cause discomfort around your ears and jaw. "If you're someone who suffers from TMJ or sensitive skin issues, I would avoid this product." Comparisons to professional treatments reveal further shortcomings. "To be frank, they don't compare," Desai said. "Products of this kind offer short-term benefits at best. If you're looking for more permanent results, I would advise seeking professional treatments." Though SKIMS has made a name for itself in large parts due to Kardashian's personal popularity and other celebrity endorsements, experts urge consumers to be wary of any overblown claims tied to beauty tools without peer-reviewed evidence. The brand was reported to be worth $4 billion in 2023. "Please approach the use of a face wrap with realistic results in mind," Desai said. "At best, this is a beauty product to be used to de-puff your face before an event, but not something you should adopt long term or wear for long periods of time." Newsweek reached out to @toralvaidyamd and @drspiegel for more information via TikTok and email. Newsweek also reached out to Kim Kardashian for comment via email.
