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Does this young lady really need anti-ageing products? There are people trying to convince her that she does.
A Guardian article led to helpful comment from the British Association of Dermatologists, the BBC joining in and a number of others. All concerned about the growing use of unsuitable cosmetic products by young children.
That the concern went viral is good news but this does not match the viral push causing the problem. Few disagreed that the trend is being led by influencers on TikTok, or YouTube, along with the peer pressure they create.
This is not a case of young children trying a more expensive moisturiser than they need, products being used are costly and dangerous.
Built In Risks
There are videos and images online, along with parental evidence of children as young as 8, or 9 regularly using adult preparations. They can contain acid based exfoliators, or retinoids, in products specifically sold as anti-ageing.
The ingredients can cause skin irritation at any age and in younger skin, more so. For children with existing skin conditions such as eczema, or liable to contact allergies, they could be truly problematic.
Apart from a potential to bring irreversible skin issues, possible psychological harm should be considered. Should teens, or pre-teens be obsessed with ageing, or with appearance to the extent they are being led to be.
A Marketing Cocoon
Manufacturers state that the high price tags of some products should make clear they are not intended for children. This does however beg the question of why they are in bright, colourful packaging, perhaps with cartoon animal logos.
Online influencers who are known to have a young audience are being paid to promote the products. Often part of the popular routines demonstrated by them, with children feeling left out if they can’t join in as their friends do.
Viral by definition means contagious and product marketers know this, seeking to create an environment where their items and life are inseparable.
A Rational Stance
Skincare content is unrestricted on social media. Of course some will be helpful but millions of viewers can also see misinformation, or entries designed to play on vulnerabilities, or create unwanted social norms.
There isn’t a real requirement for children to spend huge amounts of time on their skincare routines before and after school. Their skin doesn’t need this and there is a danger of taking their childhood away.
No routine may be fine, or a little cleanser, moisturiser, or sunscreen depending on needs. Neither will cosmetic products fix medical issues such as acne, which either need time, or professional treatment.
Supportive paediatric dermatology is available, including advice. Our input as parents, or grandparents will also help, not always easy but better than waiting for social networks to police themselves.