Should You Slather Your Face In Zinc Oxide? Dermatologists Weigh In On the TikTok Trend
Our take
The internet, as ever, has unearthed another unexpected skincare ingredient, this time pulling diaper cream—specifically, its zinc oxide component—into the spotlight. The current TikTok trend suggests a protective barrier against sun and environmental stressors, a concept that, on the surface, holds a degree of merit. However, the rush to slather our faces in formulations designed for sensitive baby skin warrants a more considered approach. We’ve seen similar trends emerge and fade, like the fleeting fascination with The Breezy Dress Trend That’s Replacing My Usual Summer Staples, demonstrating the cyclical nature of online beauty obsessions. Understanding the nuances of skincare ingredients, and critically evaluating claims, is more important than ever in navigating this landscape. Ultimately, while the underlying principle of a mineral barrier is sound, the execution – and the formulation – matters immensely.
The appeal of zinc oxide lies in its ability to physically block UV rays, making it a key ingredient in many mineral sunscreens. Dermatologists are largely acknowledging this benefit, but cautioning against using diaper rash creams wholesale. The formulations are often thick, occlusive, and may contain ingredients that aren't ideal for facial skin, potentially leading to clogged pores or irritation. It’s a subtle distinction, but significant. The trend’s popularity also highlights a broader consumer desire for simplicity and “natural” solutions within skincare. We’ve observed this desire reflected in the embrace of effortless style, as seen in Lady Kitty Spencer's French Riviera Basket Bag and Gingham Clutch Are Summer's Perfect Accessories, where understated elegance and practicality are prioritized. This connection points to a larger shift away from complex, multi-step routines towards a more minimalist and intentional approach to beauty.
The rise of these viral skincare trends also speaks to the evolving relationship between consumers and dermatologists. Social media platforms have democratized access to skincare information, but also created a breeding ground for misinformation. While a quick TikTok video might offer a tempting shortcut, it often lacks the contextual detail and personalized advice provided by a qualified professional. The discourse surrounding skincare has become increasingly driven by aesthetics and immediate results, potentially overshadowing the importance of long-term skin health. This isn't inherently negative; it demonstrates a heightened awareness and engagement with skincare, but it necessitates a more discerning eye. The willingness to experiment, as evidenced by the current zinc oxide fascination, mirrors the broader cultural curiosity we see in areas like royal family dynamics, such as King Charles Has an Unusual Nickname for Queen Camilla That's Influenced By His Travels, highlighting a desire for glimpses into typically private worlds.
The zinc oxide trend, while potentially harmless in moderation, serves as a potent reminder of the need for informed decision-making in skincare. It’s not about dismissing viral trends entirely, but rather approaching them with a critical lens, researching ingredient efficacy, and consulting with a dermatologist to ensure suitability for individual skin types. The prioritization of feeling confident and comfortable in one’s own skin—a sentiment we champion—should always outweigh the allure of fleeting internet fads. The question now is: will this trend evolve into a more nuanced understanding of mineral sunscreens and barrier repair, or will it fade as quickly as the fleeting interest in salmon sperm-derived ingredients, leaving behind a trail of potentially irritated complexions?
There are plenty of viral skincare ingredients floating around the internet right now. PDRN, a.k.a. salmon sperm? Check. Volufiline, a.k.a. filler in a bottle? Check. But of all these sexy, slightly mysterious newcomers, diaper cream has to be the one I was most surprised to spot on my TikTok FYP.
Zinc oxide is the true hero behind the diaper cream craze, which has been a lauded for its skin-soothing properties for decades. In addition to these benefits, "zinc [oxide] forms a seal over the skin," says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. "This allows, the skin to heal itself from the inside out, preventing environmental aggressors from damaging the skin barrier."
Considering how buzzy barrier repair products are at the moment—a natural reaction to the (over) exfoliation craze of the last few years—it's not super surprising to see that zinc oxide conversations are bubbling to the forefront of TikTok, Instagram, and Reddit. But is it really a good idea to smear a thick layer of diaper cream on your face in order to achieve an even, glowing complexion? Or is this another beauty trend that looks intriguing through the screen but is more hype than actual results?
How Does Zinc Oxide Help Improve Skin?
Per a TikTok posted by board-certified dermatologist Neera Nathan, MD, "Zinc oxide is a skin protector that creates a barrier on top of your skin that helps trap in water, and it has anti-inflammatory properties, so it can help soothe redness, irritation and even breakouts." It is also the ingredient most commonly used in diaper rash creams; however, that's not the only product on the market to contain zinc oxide. "The same active ingredient is actually used in sunscreens, however in different formulations at lower concentrations," says Dr. Zeichner. Indeed, fans of mineral sunscreens (which "block" both UVA and UVB rays and scatter them to prevent sun damage) will recognize zinc one of the two active ingredients in their favorite physical SPFs—the other being titanium dioxide. Best of all, it's one of those rare skincare ingredients that all skin types can handle. "Zinc oxide is extremely gentle, and can be used across skin types, even in those who are sensitive," says Dr. Zeichner.
Still, the elevated mineral sunscreens that have come to define 2026 are a far cry from pure zinc oxide creams and diaper creams, both of which tend to be extremely thick and paste-like. The concentration is lower in SPFs (while still being enough to protect against sun damage) at about 15-25 percent zinc oxide. Diaper rash creams, on the other hand, typically contain between 10 and 40 percent zinc oxide, which gives users that TikTok-friendly all-white mask when it's applied all over the face and neck.
Basically, this is not something you'd want to wear out of the house or under makeup. Blendability? Not a chance, and that's the point. Remember, most skin-repairing products aren't designed to be disguised on your complexion—that's why a night cream is meant to be worn while you sleep, to deeply moisturize and repair, rather than under your foundation where it could potentially slip-slide all over your face throughout the day (even though most night creams will blend into your skin). But is a diaper cream really the best option to repair your moisture barrier and leave your skin feeling soothed, supple, and hydrated?
Should You Use Diaper Creams On Your Face?
"Zinc oxide [products] are typically used for irritated skin on the buttock, [they] also can be used on other parts of the body such as the face, especially if the skin has become inflamed or irritated," says Dr. Zeichner. In fact, while the trend may seem a bit bizarre at first glance, using formulas that are designed for babies is generally a good idea if you have extremely sensitive, irritated skin as they are most often fragrance-free (a common skin irritant) and are formulated with even more soothing ingredients like shea butter or cica. So yes, a diaper cream might actually be a worthwhile addition to your skincare lineup, even if it's best to save it for when your skin barrier is extremely stressed, like after a sunburn, or over-exfoliating, or a chemical peel.
But if baby butt cream doesn't sound like an appealing product to join your nighttime skincare routine (I get it), there are plenty of products on the market that contain zinc oxide at lower concentration levels, which prevent the cream in question from making you look like Casper the friendly ghost. Plus, the barrier repair cream category is flush with new launches and clinically-proven formulas to maintain healthy, happy, irritation-free skin. Keep scrolling for a few dermatologist-approved barrier repair products that are exceptional alternatives to diaper rash creams.
Shop Barrier Repair Creams
A French pharmacy staple beloved by the entire Marie Claire beauty team, this formula is a rich moisturizer that contains both zinc oxide and cica—plus the brand's legendary thermal water—to soothe irritation and leave your skin glowing. It's ideal for extremely dry or eczema-prone skin.
Another French girl beauty essential, this healing ointment utilizes rich shea butter, cica, and prebiotics to nourish normal to combination skin types.
If you're a K-beauty fan, then this viral PDRN cream is likely on your radar. It's ideal for oily skin types that struggle with breakouts, as it helps to soothe and repair a stressed skin barrier and provide essential moisture without clogging your pores.
It's clear that not all TikTok beauty trends are a bad idea, at least when it comes to diaper rash cream! Give it a try with this extra gentle, hypoallergenic option as the last step in your nighttime skincare routine.
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