TikTokers are using Calamine Lotion to make up a primer. Here’s what we should know about it

TikTok users are open to trying new things, especially in the realm of beauty. TikTok has evolved into a social platform for sharing beauty trends over the years. The tried-and-trued catalog is easily found online. Apply the blusher to your under-eye, jaw contouring, white concealer hack, or lubricate as a makeup primer.

People are now using calamine lotion to apply makeup primers, a TikTok beauty trend. Is it safe? Before you jump on this trend, here’s what to do.

What is calamine lotion, first?

Calamine lotion is often associated with summers in which we were unable to sleep due to the sun. We need something to soothe the itching. Calamine lotion is used to soothe sunburns and other skin irritations like poison ivy. Calamine lotion is a pinkish liquid applied topically. We all know the look. Well, a few ingredients.

Stacy Chimento MD, a board-certified dermatologist: “Calamine lotion mainly contains zinc oxide and iron oxide but can also contain water, carrageenan and calcium hydroxide. The ingredients may be too harsh for sensitive skin, which can cause severe irritation and over-drying. This can sometimes lead to worsening conditions like acne, rosacea and seborrheic dermatologtitis.”

What’s the best makeup primer hack using calamine lotion?

TikTokers has taken an over-the-counter treatment and household favourite used to treat itchy/inflamed skin, sunburn, poison Ivy and itchy skin, and made it into a makeup primer. Pro-MUA Tia Samuda’s videos inspired many to apply an opaque layer to clean skin using a brush, beauty sponge or their hands. After applying, they let it dry. After the lotion has dried, some people apply foundation as usual.

As of the writing, #calaminelotion had already been viewed over 6.6 million times on TikTok. @flavorfaay2 was one of the first to test the trend, and she captioned her video with the words “Ok this sh*t it is gold 10/10”. @therealembree also uses calamine lotion to set her makeup. She commented that it didn’t smell like anything and ended her tutorial by saying, “I think you should give it a go.”

What are the opinions of experts on using calamine lotion to set makeup?

Dr. Chimento says that calamine lotion is made of zinc oxide. This means that it has an “anti-inflammatory capability,” which is good for wound healing and soothing the skin. However, there are some caveats to this product. Teen Vogue’s Dr. Chimento says that the lotion can be used as an astringent. However, excessive use or frequent use can lead to skin dryness and worsening of conditions such as acne.

Technically, this means that some people can use this type calamine lotion to apply makeup primers. However, as with all things related to skin care, the risks involved will vary depending on your skin type. It is best to consult your dermatologist before using calamine lotion for cosmetic purposes. Dr. Chimento cautions that calamine lotion should not be used for beauty purposes on people with oily skin.

TikTok may have inspired the chemist within us all, but not everyone is makeup professionals. Dr. Chimento advises that we stick with products that were designed to act as mattifying primers. Benefit’s The POREfessional Face Primer and The Ordinary’s High-Adherence Silicone Primer are some of her recommendations.