Beauty TikTokers never fail to surprise us. When they’re not preparing botox in a bottle concoctions and freezing cucumbers for DIY facials, they’re using lube as their make-up primer. 

Yes, you read that right. With #lubeprimer gathering over seven million views on the app, the new skincare “hack” sees users forgoing professional primers to slather their faces with lube pre-foundation. 

TikTok MUA Lukáš Kohutek routinely uses Durex lube in his tutorials. Meanwhile, beauty influencer Sean Anthony stated that the product gave his skin a “glow” and “grippy” texture which helped with applying foundation and MUA Jaro London explained that the product “filled out pores because of the silicon in lube”. 

The trend also received a stamp of approval from skincare specialist Hyram Yarbro, who broke down lube’s most common ingredients in a TikTok. “First I was thinking about the ingredients, like are they going to destroy your skin?” said Hyram. “But, if they’re going to be shoved up there where the sun doesn’t shine then the ingredients probably aren’t too shabby.” Great.

Continuing, Hyram explained that most silicon-based lubes include propylene glycol, hydroxyethylcellulose, benzoic acid, and sodium hydroxide – ingredients frequently found in skincare products. However, he also suggested that people with oily skin stick to regular primers, due to lube’s “sticky” texture. 

Otherwise, speaking to NYLON, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Robert Finney discouraged people from trying the trend. “There are plenty of good primer options designed specifically with your face in mind,” he said. “Durex Play 2-in-1 has castor oil in it. Castor oil can clog pores and lead to breakouts.” He also explained that any lubes which include fragrances may cause allergic reactions or irritation. It’s going to be a no from us.