What Is Beezin’ and Why Is it Dangerous?
Updated: Feb. 03, 2023
Younger people are flocking to this TikTok trend—but is it safe? Here's what to know.
We’ve lived through the laundry pod challenge, the milk crate challenge, mouth taping and crazy, dangerous detoxes. Now, along comes the latest viral social media trend: Beezin’.
What Is “Beezin’”?
Beezin is, quite simply, putting Burt’s Bees chapstick on your eyelids. Yes, people are actually doing this. You can find numerous videos on TikTok under the hashtags #beezed (with over 30 million views) or #burtsbees (with almost 400 million views).
Young people are applying Burt’s Bees chapstick to their eyelids before going out to a party or club. An example would be @zer0fs’s TikTok “ellie and i every time we go out,” in which she shows multiple clips of them putting Burt’s Bees on their eyelids before they go out at night.
@lilyknottmusic who came up with this💀 #burtsbees #beezee #burtsbeeschallenge #burtsbeeseyelid #beezer #escapism #raye #szasos #fyp ♬ Escapism. – RAYE & 070 Shake
Why Are People Putting Burt’s Bees on Their Eyelids?
I’m glad you asked because I have the same question about beezin’. People are under the impression that Burt’s Bees on your eyelids gives a heightened sensation or a low-key high.
According to Optometry Times, “some speculate that the teens are experiencing a tingling or burning sensation from the lip balm’s peppermint oil, which the teens are claiming feels good when they are intoxicated.” In one TikTok video, entitled “what burts bees actually does” a half dozen young people explain how Burt’s Bees feel on their eyelids.
@lilyknottmusic ♬ Escapism. Sped up (Official) – RAYE & 070 Shake
Why Is Beezin’ Dangerous?
According to Parade, beezin’ is “one way that kids are trying to alter their state of mind, using peppermint or menthol-flavored chapstick.” Parade notes that the concept is risky because “kids are seeking out a feeling of euphoria, which can easily be a gateway to trying real mind-altering substances.”
But more directly (and perhaps obviously) the peppermint oil in the chapstick can also be a strong irritant to the eye. Beezin’ can cause pink eye, inflammation, irritation and swelling.
