The Egg-White Facial Controversy: Beauty Trend or Bird Flu Risk?

By: Shahara Lum

Lately, there’s been a buzz in the DIY skincare world, with enthusiasts trying out all sorts of trends — some great, some not so much. One trend that’s made a surprising comeback is the egg-white facial. Promoted as a natural and budget-friendly way to tighten skin, minimize pores, and achieve a radiant glow, it’s taken off on social media. However, there’s a serious side to consider. Health experts are raising concerns about the safety of using egg whites for skincare, especially with the increase in avian influenza (bird flu) cases worldwide.

The Allure of Egg-White Facials

Egg-white facials have long been a part of folk skincare remedies. They’re often credited with benefits such as:

• Temporarily tightening the skin, giving a firmer, smoother appearance.

• Reducing oiliness and minimizing the appearance of pores.

• Providing a mild exfoliating effect due to the proteins and enzymes in raw egg whites.

Many DIY enthusiasts and influencers have taken to mixing egg whites with various kitchen ingredients like lemon juice, honey, or yogurt to whip up homemade masks that they say can help with aging and acne. The before-and-after videos on social media are pretty convincing and definitely spark curiosity about trying it out. However, what these videos often overlook is the hidden microbial risk that comes with using raw eggs.

The Rising Concern: Avian Influenza and Contaminated Eggs

The debate over using egg whites in facials goes beyond just concerns about skin irritation or allergies — it touches on public health issues. Since 2025, there has been a significant rise in outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) hitting poultry farms around the world. This has resulted in the culling of millions of birds and has raised serious questions about the safety of raw poultry products, including eggs. [4]

While eating cooked eggs poses a minimal risk of contracting bird flu, the situation changes when it comes to handling raw eggs for facials. The virus can be found in the egg whites or on the surface of the eggshell. Experts caution that using infected raw egg whites could potentially be a way to transmit the virus, especially if your skin has cuts or tiny abrasions, or if you accidentally touch your face afterward. [4]

Dr. Elise Tran, an epidemiologist with the Global Infectious Disease Surveillance Network, notes:

“People think that applying raw egg to their face is harmless, but with the current spread of H5N1 and other strains, it’s reckless. The skin is a permeable organ. Combine that with the mucous membranes around the eyes and mouth, and you’re creating a perfect pathway for infection.”

Salmonella Still a Concern

Even without the threat of bird flu, it’s important to remember that raw eggs can carry Salmonella bacteria. The CDC estimates that about 1 in every 20,000 eggs might be contaminated. If someone eats one of those eggs or the bacteria gets into broken skin or mucous membranes, it can really cause some serious health issues, especially for those who are more vulnerable, like kids, the elderly, or people with weaker immune systems. [3]

When egg whites are applied to the face, there’s a risk of:

• Bacteria entering the eyes, nose, or mouth.

• Accidental inhalation of aerosolized particles while mixing or applying.

• Transferring bacteria to towels, pillowcases, or makeup brushes, leading to cross-contamination.

For beauty enthusiasts, what seems like a harmless and organic solution may be a hidden health hazard.

The Rise of the TikTok Effect

The speed at which trends spread on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube is a big part of the problem. Influencers promote things like egg-white facials as a “miracle” solution, and beauty bloggers jump in just to get views. Unfortunately, the warnings from scientists and health officials often get lost in the noise.

I came across a viral video where a creator mixes up an egg-white and lemon juice mask, claiming it gives her “Botox-like results” for absolutely nothing. The comments are filled with people excited to try it out, but hardly anyone seems to be concerned about the safety or any potential risks involved.

This rapid spread of misinformation or incomplete information is what concerns scientists the most.

“TikTok doesn’t come with a warning label,” says Dr. Saanvi Patel, a dermatologist and public health advocate. “People believe that ‘natural’ means ‘safe.’ But nature also includes viruses, bacteria, and allergens. When it comes to skincare, not everything in your fridge belongs on your face.”

A Call for Better Regulation and Awareness

The rise of raw-egg skincare trends since the pandemic has sparked concern among experts about the need for better regulation and digital literacy regarding DIY health advice. Dermatologists are urging social media platforms to highlight viral skincare hacks that involve using raw or potentially unsafe ingredients.

There’s also a push for enhanced public health education about avian influenza — focusing not only on food safety but also on basic hygiene practices during outbreaks. The bottom line is clear: if health officials tell you to cook your eggs thoroughly for safety, it doesn’t make much sense to slather them raw on your face, does it?

Alternatives That Are Safer and Scientifically Backed

For those looking to achieve firmer skin or reduced pores without risking a viral infection, dermatologists recommend safer, more effective alternatives:

• Niacinamide: A vitamin B3 derivative proven to reduce pore appearance and improve skin tone.

• Clay masks: Especially kaolin and bentonite clays, which absorb oil and tighten skin safely.

• Peptides and collagen-boosting serums: These mimic the tightening effects people seek from egg whites.

• Hyaluronic acid: For hydration and plumping, which can give a firmer look without the mess or risk.

The skincare industry has a ton of products that are rigorously tested and regulated, making them generally safer than just grabbing random ingredients from your kitchen. Sure, investing in well-researched skincare might set you back more than a carton of eggs, but it’s a cost that’s worth it for the sake of your health.

Works cited:

[1] https://www.hola.com/us/beauty/20250331823492/egg-whites-facial-beauty-hack/

[2] https://www.verywellhealth.com/egg-white-face-mask-11707940

[3] https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/egg-white-facials-controversial-viral-201358408.html

[4] https://www.vice.com/en/article/stop-rubbing-raw-egg-on-your-face-experts-beg/

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