Viral Skincare Trend Raises Eyebrows: Are Mung Bean Facials the Next Big Thing?

A bizarre yet intriguing skincare trend is making waves across social media, with a recent video going viral showing mung beans being applied to a person’s skin in a thick, jelly-like substance. The clip, which features tweezers removing individual mung beans from the skin, has sparked both fascination and confusion among viewers.

The image appears to depict a part of a facial or spa treatment where mung beans—commonly used in holistic and Ayurvedic remedies—are embedded in a transparent gel-like mask applied directly to the skin. While it may look strange, enthusiasts claim the treatment has detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and exfoliating benefits.

Skincare professionals, however, are divided. Some hail the use of mung beans for their antioxidant properties, while others warn against applying non-sterile food items to the face, citing risk of infection or irritation.

Dermatologist Dr. Karen Liu says, “There’s no scientific evidence to suggest mung beans have any significant topical benefits. What you’re seeing is more likely a marketing gimmick than an effective skincare solution.”

Despite the skepticism, the trend has gone viral under hashtags like #BeanFacial, #MungMask, and #SkincareExperiment, with influencers jumping on board for the novelty and engagement it brings.

Whether this is the future of skincare or just another fleeting online craze, one thing is clear: when it comes to beauty, people are willing to try just about anything.