“Potatoes have a high salicylic acid content in them. We know salicylic acid is beneficial in treating acne,” he says. “Plus, when something to your head, you're putting pressure on your pimples, which may help to soften them out and break down the skin's surface a little bit.

How Potatoes May Benefit Skin

According to Boston-based board-certified dermatopathologist Gretchen Frieling, MD, there are several ways potatoes can benefit the skin. First, there’s the fact that “starches soothe inflammation and absorb oil.” Second, she notes, potatoes are rich in vitamin C which helps minimize the risk of developing dark spots as a pimple resolves.

A possible third potential factor? Potatoes contain an enzyme called catecholase, which, Frieling explains, is thought to brighten skin and eliminate dark spots.

Potatoes are packed with healthful ingredients like vitamins B1, B3, B6, C, and minerals like potassium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. We already know potato has a natural bleaching property, lets now find out how it benefits our skin:

  • Reverses skin tanning and problems like hyper-pigmentation.
  • Reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Diminishes dark circles and puffy eyes.
  • Controls sebum production and fights acne.
  • Lessens inflammation caused by rashes, ulcers, and other bruises.
  • Helps soothe inflamed skin cells.
  • Protects skin from environmental damage.

Hence, potato can be tagged as an “all-rounder” for all skin issues. 


What are Cytokines and How do They Help the Skin?

Cytokines are molecules that are released by cells in the immune system that “regulate inflammation, immunity, and hemopoiesis (the production of blood cells and platelets),” Freiling explains. Some cytokines fight and reduce inflammation while others increase inflammation.

Acne is an inflammatory condition that could be influenced by cytokines, Frieling says. She notes a 2013 study on mice which found that potato skin extracts had potential anti-inflammatory effects, which lends slight merit to the potato hack.

"[Additional studies] have led researchers to find that potato glycoalkaloids and other chemical compounds have the potential to reduce cytokines and inflammation," Freiling explains. As there is significant evidence that cytokines can influence inflammatory acne and pain, it is believed that it is those glycoalkaloids that account for this benefit.  

Still, while some research exists, it's not enough to warrant tossing topical acne creams and gels to the side—especially when said "research" is being done on a social media platform by non-professionals. “It’s important to remember that the results TikTok users have seen is anecdotal—meaning it’s based on individual results and not clinical evidence,” says Frieling. 

How to Use Potatoes in a Skincare Regimen

Though TikTokers have slept with potato chunks taped to their faces, this isn’t how Frieling recommends trying this hack at home. First and foremost, wash the potato before peeling. “This is important, as washing the potato after you peel it washes away its beneficial properties,” Frieling warns.

“Then, peel the skin off entirely. Without wiping or rinsing the potato (the starchy juice is what's valuable!), cut the potato in half-inch-thick round slices. Prep the skin by cleansing it as you usually would, and patch test the potato on the inside of your forearm. Take a slice of potato and start massaging it into the skin, rubbing it in circular motions all over the face. Leave for 10 minutes. If you feel stinging or itching, wash it off right away,” she says.

Who Should and Should Not Try This

For the occasional pimple, Frieling calls potatoes a “DIY hack worth trying,” though, unsurprisingly, she also says that for a long-term acne solution, it’s better to seek a dermatologist-designed treatment plan.

Also important to note: "[One study] reported a link between potato sensitivities and latex allergies, thanks to a protein called patatin," Frieling notes. “Patatin is a major cause of potato allergy. So, if you have a known allergy to latex, do not use raw potatoes on your skin.” It’s also always recommended to do a patch test before applying anything new to your face.

Here is what he thinks about the benefits of potato for acne –

“The acne benefits of potatoes aren’t clinically proven. But there are a few reasons why potato may help acne and blemishes:

  • Starch: The starch in potatoes can help absorb excess oil in the skin and help calm inflammation.
  • Vitamin C: Potatoes contain vitamin C which can help even tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation caused by acne.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties: One study found that potato glycoalkaloids had anti-inflammatory effects on mice, which may help calm the skin with conditions such as acne.
  • Salicylic acid: Potatoes contain salicylic acid, which is a proven acne treatment ingredient. It can help shed off dead skin cells to deeply clean pores.

Alternatives

Unless you’re allergic to potatoes (or latex), there’s likely no harm in trying this hack. Just remember that a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide spot treatment (or a cortisone shot from a board-certified dermatologist) is likely still more effective. 

Though it’s tempting to try every easy DIY hack—especially when the item required is already in your kitchen—dermatologists advocate sticking to more tried-and-true (and research-backed) options.