Last updated February 28, 2025
TikTok may have made me do it… but are these 12 wellness trends hits or hoaxes? Let’s find out.
Love it or hate it, TikTok is like free Gen Z healthcare. Some of us (ahem, me) appreciate the endless stream of wellness hacks, while professionals often roll their eyes at the advice being tossed around on the app. Fair enough. Is it a good idea to trust medical advice you find on social media or is it worse to blindly trust the medical system? It’s hard to say.
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Surprisingly, a recent survey found that more than 50% of Gen Z gets health advice from TikTok. For one-third of users, the app is their main source of health advice, outranking any other.
In the spirit of journalism, I decided it was time to dive into 12 viral TikTok wellness trends that have been making their rounds and gaining insane buzz. Do they work? Are they safe? We’re here to cut through the noise and figure it out. As always, YMMV—and let’s be clear—I’m not a doctor (though I’ve tried many of these trends firsthand).
12 Viral TikTok Wellness Trends
TikTok, your strangely genius and sometimes wacky wellness trends are equal parts entertaining and bewildering.
1. Collagen Powders/Supplements
Collagen is all over TikTok as the ultimate beauty supplement, promising glowing skin, healthier hair and even stronger nails. Some users swear it also helps with joint pain and improves focus. While I’ve tried collagen creamer in my coffee, I didn’t stick with it long enough to notice major results. My sister, on the other hand, is obsessed and insists it’s a game-changer.
Collagen is a protein naturally found in the body that decreases with age, so supplementation may help replace what’s lost. Studies suggest hydrolyzed collagen peptides can improve skin elasticity and hydration and reduce joint discomfort.
Skeptics argue that once collagen is digested, it’s broken down into amino acids like any other protein, so the benefits might be exaggerated. As with any supplement, quality matters. Look for brands with third-party testing to ensure safety and effectiveness.
2. Coconut Cult
Coconut Cult is a probiotic-packed coconut yogurt that’s taken TikTok by storm. With billions of CFUs (colony-forming units) per serving and flavors ranging from tangy to sweet, it’s become a go-to for gut health enthusiasts.
Probiotics are known to support digestion, boost immunity, and even improve mood and skin health by balancing the gut microbiome. Users swear by its ability to clear acne and bust through fatigue.
Coconut Cult doesn’t come cheap, though. Expect to shell out over $20 for a jar. Overeating probiotics can also lead to stomach upset or bloating, so moderation is key (and start slow if you’re new to probiotics).
3. Mouth Taping
Mouth taping is exactly what it sounds like: taping your lips shut at night to encourage nasal breathing. Fans say it helps reduce snoring, improve sleep quality and increase oxygen efficiency.
While nasal breathing is beneficial—filtering air and increasing oxygen uptake—the idea of taping my mouth terrifies me. It sounds claustrophobic. Experts caution that this trend isn’t for everyone though, especially those with nasal congestion, sleep apnea or anxiety about restricted breathing. If you’re curious, proceed with caution and consult a professional first.
4. Lemon Water
You can pry my morning coffee out of my cold, dead fingers, but you’ve probably seen wellness influencers advocating for warm lemon water first thing in the morning (on an empty stomach). They claim it jumpstarts digestion, detoxifies the body and gives a gentle energy boost.
Lemon water hydrates and provides a small dose of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health. However, the “detox” claims are overblown.
Your liver and kidneys already handle that job. Drinking lemon water in moderation is fine, but frequent consumption can erode tooth enamel due to its acidity. Use a straw if you’re worried about your pearly whites.
5. Bed Rotting
Bed rotting is the TikTok generation’s way of saying, “I’m taking the day off, and I’m doing it in bed.” Whether you’re binging Netflix, eating snacks or simply staring at the ceiling, it’s an unapologetic form of rest.
As a self-proclaimed bed creature, I can fully get behind this. Taking time to rest without guilt is an act of self-care, especially in a culture that glorifies busyness. That said, it’s important to strike a balance.
Extended periods of inactivity can affect your physical health or be a sign of deeper mental health struggles. Listen to your body. Sometimes bed rotting is exactly what you need, while other times a brisk walk might be a better pick-me-up.
6. Beef Tallow Moisturizer
Beef tallow moisturizer has become a controversial TikTok trend. Fans rave about its ability to clear cystic acne, soften skin and replace chemical-filled skincare products. Skeptics warn that smearing beef fat on your face is a recipe for clogged pores and disaster.
Of course, I had to try it myself. I ordered some organic whipped tallow from a homestead in Florida. The texture was silky, and though it faintly smelled like beef, the scent faded quickly. Sadly, it gave me a few breakouts, so I’ve relegated it to body care.
Nonetheless, I will probably try it again. While tallow is rich in fatty acids and great for moisturizing, it might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with acne-prone skin.
7. Sea Moss
Sea moss is a gelatinous seaweed that TikTok influencers swear by for its nutrient-dense profile and potential health benefits. It’s packed with iodine, vitamins, and minerals and is said to boost energy, support thyroid health, and improve digestion.
I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s in my shopping cart. The texture is reportedly like Jell-O, with a briny ocean flavor (and the videos of people trying it for the first time are hilarious).
You can find flavored options to mask the taste, but as with any supplement, quality matters. Excessive iodine can harm your thyroid, so use it sparingly and consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
8. Free Bleeding
The idea of free bleeding into my underwear does not sound all that appealing, but… free bleeding is essentially menstruating without using traditional menstrual products, intending to embrace a natural, stigma-free approach to periods—which I can get behind.
While this trend promotes body positivity, reduces waste and relieves cramping, it’s not practical in every setting. It’s also not ideal for those with heavy flows or certain lifestyles.
Still, it’s worth considering as part of the broader conversation about period stigma and sustainable menstrual care options. Period underwear or reusable pads might be a more accessible starting point if this trend piques your interest.
9. Chia Seed Water
Chia seed water involves soaking chia seeds until they form a gel-like texture, then drinking it for hydration and digestion. Chia seeds are rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, making this trend simple and effective.
Drinking chia seeds is said to promote fullness, support gut health and boost energy. However, overdoing it can cause bloating or stomach discomfort, especially if your body isn’t used to high-fiber foods. Start with small amounts and increase gradually to see how your body reacts.
10. Red Light Therapy Mask
Red light therapy masks are touted as a high-tech skincare solution, promising to reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture and even combat acne. Studies show that red light therapy can boost collagen production and reduce inflammation, but the results are subtle and require consistent use.
Masks can also be pricey, so invest in an FDA-approved device for safety. While it won’t replace a solid skincare routine, it could be a useful tool in addition to your routine, especially for certain skin concerns.
11. Gua Sha
Gua sha is a traditional Chinese tool used to massage the face, improve circulation and promote lymphatic drainage. While it’s time-consuming (and the main reason I haven’t tried it yet), fans swear by its ability to reduce puffiness, release muscle tension and sculpt facial contours.
Gua sha-ing is also a calming ritual for many. Regardless, improper technique can bruise or irritate the skin, so learn how to use it correctly before diving in. Watching a TikTok tutorial or consulting a professional can make all the difference.
12. The Carnivore Diet
The carnivore diet eliminates all foods except animal products, with proponents clamoring over how it reduces inflammation and improves chronic conditions. I tried a version of this diet when I was struggling with a chronic illness.
While I noticed some improvements, the diet was unsustainable, expensive, and terrible for the environment. It is highly restrictive, cutting out essential nutrients like fiber and plant-based vitamins. Proceed with caution and consult a professional before attempting this extreme diet.
Are TikTok Wellness Trends Worth the Hype?
TikTok wellness trends are fascinating, fun and sometimes very helpful, but they’re clearly not one-size-fits-all solutions. Always do your research, listen to your body and consult a professional when needed. What’s trending might not be what’s best for you. And that’s perfectly okay.
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