Baby bottom face! Diaper cream being used to fight acne

People desperate for clearer skin are turning to diaper rash creams such as Desitin, with social media users claiming that the product can give their faces the same smooth, spotless appearance as a baby’s bottom.

The unusual skincare hack has taken TikTok by storm as people swap traditional acne treatments for thick layers of creams in hopes of calming breakouts and achieving a flawless complexion.

While many skincare experts have been raising their eyebrows, a local dermatologist says the unusual treatment is not as far-fetched as it appears.

Consultant dermatologist Dr Rodane Ruddock told THE WEEKEND STAR that there is a scientific reason some users are reporting clearer skin after applying creams such as Desitin to their faces.

The practice, which has exploded on social media, involves people spreading diaper rash cream over acne-prone areas and leaving it on for hours, with some users claiming that overnight application has transformed their skin.

Ruddock said he was unsure where the trend began but admitted that he could understand why it caught on.

Although the products are traditionally designed for the diaper area, “it can be used on the face because of the mechanisms”.

The dermatologist said the reason behind the surprising results is linked to one of the main ingredients found in many diaper rash creams: zinc oxide.

“People are getting positive outcomes,” he said, pointing out that zinc oxide acts as a calming agent and has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial qualities.

He explained that because acne involves inflammation, excess oil production, and bacteria, the ingredient can help reduce some of the factors that contribute to breakouts.

However, while the cream may have benefits, Ruddock warned that some popular methods being promoted online could actually damage the skin. One practice he strongly discouraged is using exfoliating brushes to aggressively scrub the cream into the face.

“That is a hazardous way of using the trend,” he warned, explaining that skincare should focus on gentle cleansing rather than harsh scrubbing.

The dermatologist also cautioned users against piling on thick layers of the cream or leaving it on overnight in an attempt to speed up results.

He explained that excessive use could have the opposite effect by blocking pores and triggering more problems.

According to Ruddock, zinc oxide particles are larger than many other skincare ingredients, meaning that heavy application can create a barrier that traps substances on the skin.

While zinc oxide is generally safe, he said misuse could lead to dryness, irritation, and other unwanted reactions.

Despite the risks, Ruddock acknowledged that some people may genuinely see improvements from the trend but stressed that skincare results are often temporary without a proper routine.

The dermatologist explained that diaper rash cream should not replace proven acne treatments but could be used alongside them.

He said effective acne management often includes products such as vitamin A-based treatments, cleansers, and benzoyl peroxide, with zinc oxide creams potentially serving as an additional aid. Ruddock also warned that viral skincare videos often show only part of the story.

“They may be using something else along with it,” he said, noting that online viewers may not always see the complete routine behind a creator’s results.