In the realm of beauty and self-care, a peculiar trend among Gen Z women is gaining traction, characterized by elaborate nighttime routines that involve an array of skincare products and unconventional methods. One such routine, described by SaraJane Warner, a mother of two from Provo, Utah, includes wearing a malleable mask, a chin strap for jawline compression, and mouth tape to lock her lips shut. While she humorously acknowledges the striking appearance these rituals create, her husband and teenager initially mistook it as a joke. This growing trend, however, is met with skepticism from both partners and experts who argue that such methods can be ineffective or even harmful.
The nighttime beauty practices involve more than just simple skincare; they encompass a range of gadgets and products intended to yield immediate results by morning. Many women, like Warner, find themselves resembling “over-pampered versions of Hannibal Lecter,” as they tape their eyes and mouths before sleep. While some partners, such as Warner’s husband Nick, are initially taken aback, they often adapt to these routines, albeit with a humorous lens. Snoop Lozano’s commentary on his wife’s usage of multiple beauty products showcases the blend of concern, comedy, and curiosity that spouses have towards these transformations, which are often accompanied by specific claims, like addressing TMJ and teeth grinding.
Interestingly, while women enthusiastically share their nighttime regimens online, many admit to mixed results. Dallas content creator Tammy Weatherhead points out that despite her routine, which includes a collagen mask and retinol patches, it can be uncomfortable, occasionally resulting in her sleep mask ending up on the floor by morning. She emphasizes that these elaborate routines are typically more feasible when alone, especially when a partner might be less inclined to witness the sometimes comedic aftermath of these beauty endeavors. This sentiment resonates with many women who indulge in what they deem necessary self-care that sometimes intertwines with the absurd.
Despite the allure of these nightly practices, dermatologists express increasing concern about their potential downsides. NYC-based dermatologist Angelo Landriscina specifically cautions against jaw-suppressing devices and mouth taping, stating that they can lead to jaw soreness or headaches. He stresses the importance of not compromising one’s airway and questions the efficacy of such beauty techniques, asserting that they won’t alter bone structure. Dr. Landriscina’s warnings raise a critical discussion about the real implications of these trends that some women may readily embrace in their pursuit of beauty.
Further amplifying this skepticism is board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nava Greenfield, who describes the so-called “monstrous morning-shed process” as a viral gimmick devoid of genuine scientific backing. According to her, the methods utilized lack substantial proof of effectiveness and could even pose health risks. Greenfield speculates that the appeal of these shockingly bizarre routines may lie more in their ability to attract attention rather than any proven efficacy, reflecting a broader commentary on social media culture where aesthetics often outweigh substance.
In summary, the trend of elaborate nighttime self-care routines among Gen Z women is both a source of amusement for partners and a concern for medical professionals. While some view these practices as a necessary indulgence in self-care, experts highlight potential dangers that come with unconventional beauty regimes. The juxtaposition of humor and concern surrounding these routines illustrates a poignant cultural moment where beauty, health, and authenticity intersect in increasingly complex ways.
