Using Colgate Toothpaste and Vaseline on Your Skin: Miracle or Myth?
Skincare trends are constantly evolving, with many people turning to household products for quick beauty hacks. One such trend making waves online involves mixing Colgate toothpaste with Vaseline as a DIY remedy for underarm whitening, acne scars, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation.
Social media is flooded with dramatic before-and-after photos showing seemingly miraculous results. But is this remedy effective? And more importantly, is it safe? In this article, we’ll explore:
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What this trend claims to do
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How it works (or doesn’t)
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The ingredients involved
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Potential risks
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Expert opinions
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Safer alternatives
What the Trend Claims
According to popular claims on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube:
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Applying a mix of Colgate toothpaste and Vaseline to the skin can whiten dark underarms in days.
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It can also treat acne, lighten dark spots, and reduce blemishes.
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The paste is usually applied to clean skin and left on for 15–30 minutes before being washed off.
In the image above, users show dramatic transformations—underarms appear visibly brighter, and acne scars seem reduced.
What’s in Colgate Toothpaste?
Toothpaste, especially brands like Colgate, contains several ingredients that may have a temporary effect on the skin:
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Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)
Known for its abrasive and exfoliating properties, it can remove dead skin cells. -
Hydrogen Peroxide
A bleaching agent often used for teeth whitening. It can cause skin lightening temporarily. -
Triclosan (in older formulas)
An antibacterial agent that may help with acne-causing bacteria. -
Fluoride
Meant for teeth, not skin, and can cause irritation if misused. -
Menthol
Gives a cooling effect and may temporarily reduce inflammation.
What’s in Vaseline?
Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, is a skin protectant that:
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Locks in moisture
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Soothes dry or irritated skin
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Creates a barrier to protect against external elements
It does not bleach or whiten skin, but it can help with healing and softening.
How the Mixture Works (or Doesn’t)
The combination of toothpaste and Vaseline creates a thick, spreadable paste. Users apply this to dark areas (like underarms) or acne-affected skin.
Here’s the theory:
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Toothpaste “dries out” pimples and reduces oil.
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Its mildly bleaching agents temporarily lighten dark patches.
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Vaseline prevents burning and locks in hydration, minimizing irritation.
However, the results are often temporary and largely superficial. Some redness may be confused with lightening, and dried-out pimples may shrink, but the underlying cause remains untreated.
Risks and Warnings 🚫
While it might seem harmless, dermatologists caution against using toothpaste on your skin, especially on sensitive areas.
🔥 Skin Irritation
Toothpaste is too harsh for facial skin or underarms. It can:
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Cause redness, burning, or peeling
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Trigger allergic reactions
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Aggravate acne by disrupting the skin barrier
🦠 Bacterial Imbalance
The skin has a natural pH and bacterial balance. Harsh chemicals in toothpaste can disrupt this, leading to more breakouts or fungal infections.
❄️ Vaseline and Pores
While Vaseline is non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores), combining it with toothpaste can trap the toothpaste on the skin longer, increasing risk of irritation.
Real User Experiences: Mixed Results
Some users report temporary lightening or acne drying after using this mix, especially if left on for just a few minutes. However, many users regret trying the hack, reporting:
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Skin peeling
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Breakouts
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Darker pigmentation after healing
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Permanent sensitivity
Results can vary greatly depending on your skin type.
Safer Alternatives for Skin Lightening and Acne
Instead of using toothpaste, consider these dermatologist-recommended alternatives:
For Dark Underarms:
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Exfoliate regularly with natural scrubs (sugar + lemon + honey)
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Use lactic acid lotions (like Amlactin)
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Try turmeric masks with yogurt
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Avoid shaving and switch to waxing or laser
For Acne and Dark Spots:
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Salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide cleansers
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Niacinamide serums (brightening and anti-inflammatory)
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Retinol creams for skin renewal
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Tea tree oil for natural antibacterial effects
Homemade Natural Recipe Example
Here’s a gentler alternative DIY remedy for clearer skin:
🍯 Honey + Turmeric + Aloe Gel
Ingredients:
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1 tsp turmeric
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1 tbsp honey
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1 tbsp fresh aloe vera gel
Directions:
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Mix into a smooth paste.
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Apply to underarms or affected skin.
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Leave on for 15 minutes.
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Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Benefits:
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Turmeric brightens and reduces inflammation.
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Honey fights bacteria and hydrates.
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Aloe soothes and heals damaged skin.
What Dermatologists Say
Dr. Sandra Lee (aka Dr. Pimple Popper) and other dermatologists strongly advise against using toothpaste on the face or sensitive areas. According to them:
“Toothpaste is not formulated for facial skin. It can cause irritation, dryness, and worsen acne. Better to use products specifically designed for skincare.”
Conclusion
While the idea of using Colgate toothpaste and Vaseline on your skin might seem like a budget-friendly beauty trick, it comes with more risks than benefits. Although some may see quick results, these are often short-lived and can result in long-term skin damage.
If you’re serious about treating hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or acne, it’s best to invest in safe, science-backed skincare—or consult a dermatologist for professional guidance.
Final Tips:
✅ Do a patch test before applying anything new to your skin.
✅ Use only products meant for your skin type.
✅ Keep your skincare routine gentle and consistent.
✅ Avoid internet trends that aren't backed by dermatology.