Dermatologists and concerned parents are increasingly wary of the growing trend of tweens and teens using anti-aging and brightening products. Influenced by friends and social media influencers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, many young people are drawn to these adult skincare routines.
While many online skincare promotions appear harmless, experts caution that not all products are suitable for young skin. Dermatologists argue that most adult skincare items are unnecessary for youth and can even be harmful.
Adult beauty products inappropriate for young skin
Youthful skin does not require the same skincare regimen as those over 20, thanks to its rapid cell turnover and abundant collagen. According to Dr. Abigail Waldham, a dermatologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, anti-aging creams are designed to reduce deeper wrinkles, dark spots, and fine lines — things young people don’t need to worry about.
“When you are a kid, everything in your skin is working perfectly. It has a mechanism in place to exfoliate, to turn over, to do all the things it’s supposed to do, and so you don’t need any expensive fancy skincare,” she told CBS News.
Potentially harmful ingredients
Ingredients commonly found in adult products, such as retinol (a Vitamin A derivative), Vitamin C, and exfoliating acids (AHAs and BHAs), are tailored for older adult skin to boost collagen production and provide antioxidant benefits. However, these components can disrupt the natural protective barrier and microbiome of younger skin, leading to dryness and susceptibility to rashes and other skin issues.
Also, experts warn that fragrant and botanical ingredients in these cosmetic products can cause irritation and allergies. They may exacerbate skin issues for youths with eczema or sensitive skin.
Promoting unnecessary skin concerns
Social media platforms have ingrained a culture of unrealistic expectations among people of all ages. This is evident in the skin care industry, where some products aim to solve skin problems that don’t exist.
Dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy told USA Today about one patient, around 11 years old, who had a severe rash after reacting to an ingredient in an anti-aging product. He says it will take over a month to cure this issue, but the youth still wants to continue using the product.
“They don’t understand the function of skin and that it’s not just this wall you can throw anything at,” Jeffy says. “It’s kind of word of reason — word of their parents, sometimes, word of me or other physicians — against this huge industry of beauty and social media.” (USA Today)
Dr. Jeffy is among the experts warning parents against buying unnecessary beauty products for their children. He believes we should be vigilant because the beauty industry and influencers prey on people’s anxiety and fear of missing out.
The dangers of excessive product use
Using multiple products or the wrong products for extended periods can lead to skin issues like inflammation, redness, and irritation. Dr. Anthony Rossi, a dermatologist in New York, advises that children and teenagers need only a gentle cleanser, a light moisturizer, and sunscreen with SPF 30 — and sometimes, not even a moisturizer if the skin isn’t dry.
Inappropriate adult products are expensive
Spending on “anti-aging” and “brightening” products for children, who do not need them, is economically impractical. While certain products may be necessary for specific skin conditions, as advised by a dermatologist, most are not.
Countering negative influences
The beauty industry strategically markets to young audiences, compelling them to desire costly beauty products. Parents find this trend alarming, with children sometimes favoring the advice of celebrities over their own. To combat this, parents can engage by listening, empathizing, educating about advertising tactics, and encouraging less time on social media.
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