Yes, This Viral Beauty Hack Will Get Your Skincare Past TSA-but Dermatologists Say It's a Bad Idea

"These days, getting through airport security practically requires expert-level attention. Should I take off my shoes? Laptop in or out? How about those batteries? And when it comes to liquids, you should know, nothing over 3.4 ounces is getting by them ... or is it? Over the last few months, a social media trend has emerged, with travelers boasting about how they bested the TSA agents with their beauty products by freezing them before heading to the airport."

"And really, social media stars like Fiona aren't wrong. As the TSA's website explains, 'Frozen liquid items are allowed through the checkpoint as long as they are frozen solid when presented for screening.' However, it importantly noted, 'If frozen liquid items are partially melted, slushy, or have any liquid at the bottom of the container, they must meet 3-1-1 liquids requirements.'"

"'From my perspective as a dermatologist, freezing most skincare products is generally a bad idea,' Dr. Hannah Kopelman, who's completed two clinical fellowships in dermatology from Columbia University and skin cancer from Boston University, told Travel + Leisure. 'The active ingredients in skincare-things like retinol, vitamin C, peptides, and even sunscreens-are highly sensitive to temperature changes.' Kopelman explained that when you freeze them, the formula can 'separate or degrade, meaning the product won't be as effective when you apply it later. Freezing can also alter the texture, making creams grainy or serums watery, which can affect both application and absorption.'"

Frozen liquid items are permitted through airport checkpoints if they are fully frozen when presented; partially melted or slushy items with liquid at the bottom must comply with 3-1-1 liquid rules. Social media users have been freezing beauty and skincare products to pass security and report successful screening. Many skincare actives, including retinol, vitamin C, peptides, and sunscreens, are sensitive to temperature changes. Freezing can cause formulas to separate or degrade, change textures (making creams grainy or serums watery), and reduce application quality and ingredient absorption, lowering overall effectiveness.

Read at Travel + Leisure