The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Use diaper cream on my face? But wait...
■ The question: Is it true that you can use diaper cream on your face to reduce inflammation and irritation?
■ The science: TikTok followers are slathering diaper cream on their faces to help heal dry and irritated skin – a beauty hack dubbed “face basting” by Shereene Idriss, a dermatologist and founder of Idriss Dermatology in New York City. Idriss’ video, which shows her applying the thick white cream on her face, went viral. Videos showing people “basting” their skin have gotten millions of views.
After having a baby a few years ago, Idriss started using the product on her face after experiencing inflammation and irritation, which she attributed to pregnancy, winter weather and wearing a mask. “I had a lot of diaper cream at home, so it was accessible,” Idriss said.
Idriss recommends zinc oxide-based diaper creams. Studies have shown that the substance, a white powder derived from the mineral zincite, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and can reflect UVA and UVB rays, making it a common ingredient in sunscreens. Zinc oxide can give products a white cast. Because of this, Idriss suggests applying it at nighttime.
Diaper creams may also contain petrolatum, which can provide a protective barrier for dry skin, locking in moisture.
The evidence for using diaper cream for facial care is anecdotal, and experts say there aren’t many large quality studies to support the technique. Also, the creams may cause adverse reactions in some people.
Diaper cream could make acne worse by clogging pores, which can cause breakouts.
“If you have oily or acneprone skin or for someone who suffers from blackheads and pimples, this technique with this type of product may exacerbate oiliness and flare your acne,” Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand, a Dallasbased dermatologist, said in an email.
Those with sensitive skin should also be cautious when applying diaper cream to the face as it can cause irritation, said Marisa Garshick, a dermatologist in New York.
Other dermatologists advise against the practice. “Diaper creams should be used for diaper rashes,” Charlene Lam, an associate professor of dermatology at Pennsylvania State University, said in an email.
■ The bottom line: Diaper cream can contain ingredients that may benefit your face, but its effectiveness hasn’t been studied. In some cases, the practice may cause breakouts or increased irritation.