Dermatologist Recommends ‘Face Basting’ with Diaper Rash Cream for Dry Skin Relief

,

 / 

The skincare world is abuzz with a novel recommendation from NYC board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss: “face basting” with diaper rash cream. Dr. Idriss suggests slathering the face with a zinc-oxide-based diaper rash cream to alleviate dry, inflamed skin, drawing attention to the surprising effectiveness of this unconventional skincare hack.

In a trending TikTok video from December, Dr. Idriss shared her skincare secret, explaining that she applies diaper rash cream all over her face before bed, particularly in dry climates or when her skin feels parched. She coined the term “face basting” to describe this method, likening the result to resembling “Mrs. Doubtfire or a Magnolia buttercream cupcake” before drifting off to sleep.

Benefits Of Face Basting

The concept behind “face basting” stems from the healing properties of zinc oxide, a key ingredient in many diaper rash creams. Dr. Idriss highlights zinc oxide’s ability to soothe and repair the skin while locking in hydration, making it a valuable addition to nighttime skincare routines.

A case study published last year corroborated the benefits of zinc oxide for skin hydration, particularly after laser treatments for acne scars. The compound boasts anti-inflammatory properties and promotes collagen production, contributing to accelerated wound healing.

Dr. Idriss recommends Triple Paste diaper rash cream, which contains 12% zinc oxide along with cornstarch and oat kernel extract. These additional ingredients offer further benefits, including pore refinement and anti-inflammatory effects. However, she advises consumers to scrutinize the ingredients list of diaper rash creams to ensure compatibility with their skin type.

While “face basting” has garnered attention for its potential to alleviate dry skin, dermatologists urge caution. Dr. Elizabeth Houshmand warns that diaper rash creams may contain ingredients that could clog pores and exacerbate acne, emphasizing the importance of choosing skincare products tailored to individual needs.

Dr. Idriss distinguishes “face basting” from “face slugging,” a similar skincare trend involving overnight application of petroleum jelly or Vaseline. She recommends applying the cream after washing the face and removing makeup, cautioning against using retinol beforehand to avoid potential irritation.

Commenters on Dr. Idriss’s TikTok videos have shared mixed experiences with “face basting,” with some praising its effectiveness in improving skin texture and reducing redness. However, others have reported adverse reactions such as acne breakouts or hives, underscoring the variability in individual responses to skincare routines.

Dr. Houshmand advises consulting with a dermatologist before adopting new skincare practices to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. While “face basting” with diaper rash cream may offer relief for some, it may not be suitable for everyone and could potentially exacerbate existing skin concerns.

As the skincare community continues to explore innovative approaches to address common concerns like dryness and inflammation, dermatologists emphasize the importance of evidence-based practices and personalized skincare regimens tailored to individual needs.


— Share —

— About the Author —

Leave a Reply

Up Next

Stress Can Lead to Cortisol Belly: Here’s How to Fix It

Stress can affect our lives in many ways, from our mental health to our relationships, but it can also lead to physical symptoms such as โ€˜cortisol bellyโ€™. Cortisol belly, named after the stress hormone, has been widely discussed on social platforms such as TikTok, with users and experts explaining how it occurs, and theorizing what could be done about it.

While you may not have heard of the term โ€˜cortisol bellyโ€™ before, you might have heard of stubborn belly fat or stress belly, which are essentially the same thing. This is because it refers to the accumulation of visceral adipose tissue around the stomach, which has been linked to prolonged exposure to elevated levels of the stress hormone, cortisol.

What Is Cortisol Belly?

According to dietitian

Up Next

Study Reveals the Complex Relationship Between Calorie Restriction and Longevity

For years, scientists have speculated that consuming fewer calories might help people live longer. A recent study has shed new light on this topic, suggesting that the relationship between calorie restriction and longevity is more complex than previously thought.

“We’ve known for nearly 100 years that calorie restriction can extend healthy lifespan in a variety of laboratory animals,” stated one researcher last year to CNN.

However, the new study seems to indicate a more intricate relationship between calorie restriction and living to a ripe old age.

“There are many reasons why caloric restriction may extend human lifespans, and the topic is still being studied,” explained Waylon Hastings, lead author of the study and postdoctoral researcher. “One primary mechanism through which life is extended relates t

Up Next

Exercise Cuts Heart Disease Risk by Lowering Stress, Study Finds

New research indicates that physical activity lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, in part by reducing stress-related signaling in the brain. The study, led by investigators at Massachusetts General Hospital and published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, found that people with stress-related conditions such as depression experienced the most cardiovascular benefits from physical activity.

To assess the mechanisms underlying the psychological and cardiovascular disease benefits of physical activity, Ahmed Tawakol, an investigator and cardiologist in the Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center at Massachusetts General Hospital, and his colleagues analyzed medical records and other information of 50,359 participants from the Mass General Brigham Biobank who completed a physical activity survey.

A subset of 774 participants also underw

Up Next

Lack of Sleep Linked to Rising Cases of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Warns Expert

In a recent revelation, lack of adequate sleep has been associated with a concerning rise in cases of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), according to insights shared by medical experts. As sleep deprivation continues to plague a significant portion of the population, the implications on public health are becoming increasingly alarming.

More than a third of adults in the United States fail to attain the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep each night, a trend that has sparked growing concerns among healthcare professionals. The scarcity of shuteye, it turns out, can have profound effects beyond daytime fatigue and drowsiness.

What is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease?

According to Ibrahim Hanouneh, a gastroenterologist with

Up Next

Study Explores Impact of Residential Green Space on Childhood Mental Health

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open investigates the relationship between residential green space and externalizing and internalizing symptoms in children. Conducted in the United States, the study aims to identify potential factors that can mitigate risks associated with childhood mental health disorders.

According to the study, up to 40% of children in the US may meet the criteria for mental disorders by adulthood, with an increased prevalence of externalizing (e.g., rule-breaking and aggression) and internalizing (e.g., depression and anxiety) symptoms.

Researchers suggest that environmental factors, such as green spa

Up Next

Study Links Volatile Work Hours to Burnout and Health Issues

A recent study conducted by NYU Social Work professor Wen-Jui Han has shed light on the detrimental effects of volatile work hours on both physical and mental health. The research, which analyzed data spanning over 30 years, found a significant correlation between irregular work hours and increased health concerns.

The study, which examined the work schedules and sleep patterns of over 7,000 Americans, revealed that individuals working rotating shifts were more prone to health problems such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. The primary factor contributing to these issues was identified as a disruption in sleep patterns caused by inconsistent work schedules.

Jamaica Shiers, a representative from Path Behavioral Health in Salt Lake City, emphasized the prevalence of burnout among adults, attributing it to the pressure to maintain peak performance at al

Up Next

New Study Suggests Balanced Diet Better Than Vegetarian Diet for Brain Health

In a groundbreaking study published in Nature Mental Health, researchers have shed light on the relationship between dietary patterns and brain health. The study suggests that a balanced diet, comprising various food types, may be superior to a vegetarian diet in supporting mental well-being and cognitive function.

The research, which analyzed data from nearly 182,000 participants, focused on four main dietary patterns: starch-free/reduced starch, vegetarian, high-protein/low-fiber, and balanced diet. Participants’ food preferences were examined in categories such as fruits, vegetables, starches, protein, and snacks.