Unhealthy beauty hacks you should definitely be avoiding

We've all heard the term "life hack," right? Well, just in case you haven't, it's a phrase meaning an easy way to do something. In other words, a shortcut if you will. So when you hear the term beauty hack you know it's the same sort of phrase, only having to do with beauty tips.

From magazines to Pinterest, beauty hacks often promise simple solutions -- but in reality, how safe are they? After all, when it comes to beauty, it's extremely easy to accidentally do something that has negative effects on your skin, eyes, hair, etc.

So with that being said, it's time to reveal some unhealthy hacks you should be avoiding at all costs.

1) Using cleaning sponges to remove tanning streaks on skin

Photo: Getty

The chemicals on these sponges, often containing formaldehyde, can be very damaging to skin.

2) Using mouthwash to get rid of dead skin

Photo: Getty

The heavy amounts of alcohol in mouthwash actually burns off an entire layer of skin.

3) Using cooking oils as moisturizers

Photo: Getty

These oils actually CAUSE breakouts instead of clear them.

4) Soaking your nails in lemon juice for growth

Photo: Getty

This actually dries out your nails ensuring they become brittle.

5) Using petroleum jelly to grow your lashes

Photo: Getty

This beauty hack actually clogs pores leading to acne or cysts under your eyes.

Click through for natural beauty habits to adopt ASAP:

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