Influencer Ashton Hall shocked the world with his morning routine, which involves some unusual skincare habits. Radiance talks to a dermatologist to learn the science or lack thereof) behind these practices and we even tested them for ourselves.
The secret to perfect glowing skin. It was here all along. A TikTok posted in March this year had the answer to the age-old question. A tub of ice cold water and a banana peel. Yes! It’s that simple, at least according to fitness influencer and online coach Ashton Hall.
His meticulous morning routine has become one of the biggest talking points this year of the “hustle” culture being promoted online by the manosphere. Here at Radiance we’ve seen some crazy routines, but this one tops it. It might be unrealistic, but what about his skincare advice? Does it hold any truth? We found out for ourselves.
Peeling back the banana theory
“Banana peels contain vitamins A, B, C and E, as well as polyphenols, which when used in skincare products, reduces inflammation and slows down skin ageing,” says Dr Penelope Pratsou, consultant dermatologist at the British Skin Foundation.
Lutein, an antioxidant which is thought to reduce oxidative stress and protect the skin from free radical damage is also present in a peel. It helps brighten the skin by providing protection from UV rays, improved hydration and elasticity.
However, Dr Pratsou says, “Although banana peels contain beneficial components, it is doubtful if they can penetrate the skin effectively when rubbed on. In practice, the use of banana peel may not be as effective as other more established skincare products.
If you’re still motivated to rub a peel on your face, we’re just hoping you don’t have sensitive skin. A lovely case of irritation follows right after, which might potentially get even worse by the next item on the list, dunking your face in ice.
Both intrigued and confused? Read More: Hormone disruptors, skin irritants and allergic reactions: The Truth Behind the Yuka App – Radiance
Breaking the ice water myth
The benefits of cold water have been discussed for ages and it has become a non-negotiable for every “alpha-male” to record themselves taking an ice water plunge, and to be fair to them, it’s not the worst practice in the world.
Dr Pratsou says, “Evidence suggests that cold water can temporarily improve skin by constricting blood vessels and subsequently boosting circulation, reducing inflammation and puffiness, tightening pores, and lowering oil production.”
Well, that seems like a dream, surely you’d want to continue drowning your face in ice. WRONG.
“There is no substantial evidence to support that cold water immersion improves skin health in the long term as its benefits are usually short-lived. In fact, prolonged cold water exposure or ice baths may dry or irritate the skin, especially for those with eczema, rosacea or other skin conditions,” says Dr Pratsou.
Final call on Hall
His routine might be the latest viral trend, but it’s clear that the skincare practices Ashton Hall promotes lack scientific backing and could do more harm than good. Relying on easy fixes like banana peels and ice dunks might seem tempting, but they don’t offer the long-term benefits that proper skincare does. After all, your skin deserves more than just a TikTok trend – it deserves real care.
Sorry to let you down Ashton, we’ll make sure to stock up on some Saratoga water to make up for it.
