What Is TikTok’s ‘Morning Shed’ Routine? (And Does It Work?)

Ever heard of the phrase ‘the uglier you go to bed, the prettier you wake up’? It’s become the ethos of TikTok’s beauty set, who have taken to piling on tools and treatments before bed in a bid to wake up with flawless skin. But does the ‘morning shed’ routine work? The 99.5 million videos on TikTok raving about it seem to think so – but let’s hear it from the experts.

What Is A Morning Shed Routine?

TikTok‘s ‘morning shed’ trend centres around the act of removing multiple layers of beauty and wellness products that have been applied overnight. Why? It’s supposedly meant to do all the hard work while you sleep, so that your skin and hair can look their best come morning. ‘It’s a trend that’s recently taken over TikTok, highlighting our fascination with beauty routines and self-care,’ explains Lesley Reynolds, skin care expert and co-founder of The Harley Street Skin Clinic. ‘The humorous notion that “the uglier you go to bed, the prettier you wake up” has gained traction, emphasising the appeal of waking up with glowing skin and perfect hair. By layering on face masks, lip serums, heatless curls, mouth guards and eye masks, this trend promises a refreshed morning look with minimal effort.’

@courtneysnelll Replying to @Myatucker step by step routine and all the products i use 🫶🏼 #skincareroutine #skincare #nightlyroutine #morningshed #dailyshed #mouthtape #collagenfacemask #bedtime #bedtimeroutine ♬ original sound – Courtney Snell

And with a fanbase built from millions of TikTok users, it’s a trend that has quickly gone viral. But Lesley warns it may not be all its cracked up to be. ‘While it offers a time-saving beauty solution, the extensive routine may be excessive and could potentially stress the skin and hair,’ she warns. ‘The “morning shed” trend underscores our ongoing search for effective beauty hacks and reflects current beauty innovation and self-care trends. Whether it will last remains to be seen.’

Is It Good For Your Skin?

While it may face some scepticism, there are a few perks to packing on the products at bedtime. ‘From an expert perspective, the “morning shed” trend can provide skin benefits, though effectiveness varies by product and skin type,’ says Lesley. ‘During sleep, the skin undergoes natural repair, making it ideal for treatments. It leverages natural repair processes during sleep to boost skin and hair health.

‘With carefully selected products and a balanced approach, it can offer substantial beauty benefits,’ she adds. ‘But individuals should monitor their skin’s responses and adjust routines to avoid potential drawbacks.’

But, as Lesley notes, it’s not a foolproof beauty hack. ‘The effectiveness of these routines depends on consistency and appropriate product selection,’ she says. ‘Overuse or incorrect combinations can cause irritation or sensitivity. It’s crucial to use non-comedogenic products suitable for overnight use to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.’

Can It Damage Skin?

As mentioned, the morning shed routine can have a negative impact on skin – usually when too much product has been used. ‘Using too many products at once can overwhelm the skin, leading to congestion and breakouts,’ confirms Lesley. ‘The skin’s barrier has limits and excess active ingredients can cause irritation or sensitivity, especially in already-sensitive skin. Overusing potent ingredients can also compromise the skin’s barrier, increasing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and making the skin more vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and infections.’

She also warns that we should be wary of which products – or, more specifically, ingredients – we’re mixing together on our skin. ‘Incompatible ingredients can reduce the effectiveness of specific products or cause adverse reactions,’ Lesley warns. ‘For example, mixing retinol with strong acids might result in dryness and irritation. It’s crucial to understand ingredient interactions.’

@maurslives the chin strap + mouthtape combo is lethal…#morningshed #skincareroutine ♬ Carrie Bradshaw – Gal Matza

The Morning Shed Routine: Dos & Don’ts

So, it’s a trend to take with a pinch of salt – or, at least, a minimal approach to skincare. That’s not to say you shouldn’t do it though, just that you should be keeping a few important tenets in mind while doing so. Below, Lesley has shared some of her dos and don’ts for the morning shed routine:

1. DO Choose Suitable Products

Hydration, as always, is key. ‘Opt for non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic formulas with hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptides, and antioxidants,’ recommends Lesley. ‘Start with a basic routine and gradually add new products until you’re happy.’

2. DON’T Use Strong Acids

Speaking of, be careful of using products with strong ingredients. ‘Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), like glycolic and salicylic acids, can be too harsh for overnight use, causing irritation and sensitivity,’ says Lesley. ‘Retinoids should also be used cautiously, as they can lead to dryness and peeling.’

3. DO Patch Test New Products

And if you’re trying anything new, make sure you give it a small test first. As Lesley notes: ‘Always perform a patch test on a small area (for example, behind the ear) before full use to check for adverse reactions.’

4. DON’T Stick To Alcohol-Based Products

Another ingredient to avoid when creating your morning shed routine: ‘Toners and astringents with alcohol can be excessively drying and irritating if left on overnight, stripping the skin of its natural oils.’

@yourfavfakeblonde.com morning shed! #morningshed #chinstrap #bonnet ♬ original sound – ELLA BEST

5. DO Layer Products Properly

‘Apply products from thinnest to thickest – cleanser, toner, serum, moisturiser, optional face oil and overnight mask,’ suggests Lesley, who tells us this will help prevent too much build-up.

6. DON’T Use Fragrances & Essential Oils

‘Synthetic fragrances and essential oils can cause irritation and allergic reactions,’ says Lesley. ‘You’ll want to avoid products with these ingredients for prolonged use.’

7. DO Ensure Cleanliness

A simple step, but not one to miss. ‘Keep your face and hands clean, and change pillowcases regularly to prevent bacteria buildup,’ advises Lesley.

8. DON’T Use Clay Masks & Physical Exfoliants Overnight

While a brilliant material for a face mask, our skin expert warns that clay is not to be used overnight. ‘Clay masks can disrupt moisture balance and cause dryness,’ she says. The same goes for physical exfoliants: ‘These can lead to irritation and microtears if used too frequently.’

9. DO Focus on Hydration & Barrier Repair

Again, hydration is key. ‘Use overnight-specific products that promote hydration and barrier repair, such as those containing ceramides, glycerin, and squalane,’ recommends Lesley. ‘Monitor your skin’s response and consult a dermatologist if needed.’

10. DON’T Use High Concentrations of Active Ingredients

And finally, be careful when it comes to active ingredients. ‘High levels of vitamin C and chemical peels should be used as directed and not left on overnight to avoid irritation and damage,’ emphasises Lesley. ‘Hydroquinone should be used short term and under medical supervision.’

Featured image: Monstera Production, Pexels