Preteens and teens are bombarded on social media with influencers promoting elaborate skin care routines, but dermatologists say that simple is best when it comes to skincare for young individuals. Before puberty hits, most kids only need a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Many popular anti-aging products contain active ingredients that can irritate young skin and are unnecessary for children. Dermatologists have seen cases of young girls damaging their skin by using adult-strength products in pursuit of the looks they see online, raising concerns about the impact on their mental health.
Even the Personal Care Products Council agrees that anti-aging products are generally unnecessary for younger skin. For tweens, dermatologists recommend using gentle cleansers and moisturizers like Cetaphil, CeraVe, and La Roche-Posay. As teenagers experience the hormonal changes of puberty, they may need to address skin issues like acne, excess oil, dark spots, and blackheads. If an issue seems serious, it’s best to consult a dermatologist before introducing any new product to the skin, especially if it contains harsh ingredients.
Parents can encourage healthy skin care routines by setting timers for skincare and limiting the time spent on elaborate routines. Engaging in conversations with skin care-obsessed kids about the viral trends they are following and why can help educate them on what is beneficial for their skin. It’s important to address skin issues one at a time and not overload the skin with multiple products that can lead to irritation. The focus on skincare has led to the positive habit of wearing sunscreen, as many influencers and young individuals prioritize sun protection as part of their routine, which is a silver lining of this trend.
Signs of an allergic reaction to skincare products include redness, itchiness, flaking, burning, stinging, or tiny bumps on the skin. It’s important to stop using products that cause irritation and consult a dermatologist if the reaction persists. Many children may not realize that trendy products they are using contain harmful ingredients that can lead to severe skin damage. Dermatologists are now using platforms like TikTok and Instagram to debunk harmful skincare trends and provide information on safe practices for tween skin care.
By educating young individuals on the importance of a simple and gentle skin care routine, parents and dermatologists can help prevent skin damage and promote healthy habits. Encouraging kids to question the advertisements they see on social media and understand the intentions behind them can empower them to make informed decisions about their skincare. The focus on skincare can have positive outcomes, such as promoting the use of sunscreen to protect the skin, highlighting the importance of sun protection in skincare routines for young individuals.
