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With all the skincare trends constantly popping up on TikTok, it’s harder than ever to decide which ones are actually worth trying out. And although the promise of perfect skin is always tempting, not all of TikTok’s methods are as straight-forward as they seem. Recently, I noticed TikTokers wearing diaper rash cream on their faces overnight, in hopes of waking up with clear skin in the morning. As much as I was contemplating slapping the stuff on my face and testing it out for myself, I was curious to see if weird trends like this one are actually dermatologist-approved. After all, with all of the skincare advice we’re being fed online—we need to listen to the real professionals more than ever.

Unfortunately, TikTok trends aren’t always as promising as they seem. Above all, make sure to do your research before potentially damaging your skin. “If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. And if your skin is healthy and happy, don’t experiment,” board-certified dermatologist Brooke Jeffy says. As fun as TikTok skincare experiments seem, it’s extremely important to consider the source before trying anything out. “Is this someone that has any knowledge of skin or just throwing out a wild idea for views?” Jeffy says. When in doubt, ask your dermatologist.

What Is Slugging?

As someone with sensitive skin, I wouldn’t dream of using a product like diaper rash cream for skincare purposes. But, I was surprised to discover there’s actually a somewhat logical reason TikTokers are using it. If you follow skincare trends at all, you’ve probably heard of slugging—and diaper rash cream is just another method of slugging. According to dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp, “Skin slugging refers to applying a petrolatum-based ointment on your face overnight to enhance moisture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.” Dr. Camp finds that slugging can actually be an effective way to treat dry skin. But of course, it’s important to use the right products in order to actually reap the benefits.

Is Diaper Rash Cream Safe to Use?

So, slugging is fair game—but what about diaper rash cream? Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose says that diaper creams are usually formulated with skin protecting ingredients to lock-in moisture and protect your skin. However, they’re not suitable for everyone. Unless your skin is super dry, coating your face with something like diaper cream can actually do more harm than good. Dr. Murphy-Rose says that it’s likely to clog pores and trap dirt and oil—or worse, cause new breakouts. “Plus, they often feel very thick and gunky and are not pleasant to use on the face,” she says. So what should you slug with instead? Dermatologists instead recommend using a rich moisturizer that’s specifically designed for the face.

Slugging Moisturizers Recommended by Dermatologists

If you want to start slugging, it’s important to find the right product before partaking. (Because diaper rash cream isn’t going to cut it.) Dr. Brendan Camp says to “look for products that restore moisture to the skin, calm inflammation, and encourage the healing and repair of the epidermis.” And if you’re still struggling, we got you covered with dermatologist-approved picks.