The obsession with skincare products among preteen girls is on the rise as they seek to achieve the beauty standards promoted by influencers on social media platforms such as TikTok and YouTube. Scarlett, a young girl who developed skin issues after using adult-strength products in pursuit of flawless skin, represents the growing trend of children experiencing adverse reactions to skincare items not intended for their sensitive skin. Dermatologists warn that the use of anti-aging products can actually cause premature aging, damage the skin barrier, and lead to permanent scarring in children.
In addition to the physical harm caused by the inappropriate use of skincare products, parents and psychologists are concerned about the impact on girls’ mental health. Studies show that a fixation on appearance can negatively affect self-esteem, body image, and lead to anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. The emphasis on beauty standards in social media content exacerbates these issues among young girls, who are bombarded with filtered images and unrealistic ideals of beauty that may be unattainable.
The desire to fit in and feel accepted drives many preteen girls like Mia to follow beauty influencers, purchase luxury skincare products, and adhere to elaborate skincare routines. Mia’s engagement with beauty content on social media led her to save her allowance for trips to Sephora and purchase high-end products endorsed by influencers. The detailed information provided in beauty tutorials sends a troubling message that young girls are never-ending projects that need fixing, contributing to insecurity and jealousy when comparing themselves to others.
The beauty industry has capitalized on the trend, with consumers under age 14 driving a significant portion of skincare sales. Brands like Drunk Elephant offer anti-aging products with potent ingredients like retinol and chemical exfoliants, despite recommendations that children should only use gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Legislation aimed at restricting the sale of anti-aging skincare products to children has failed in the US, prompting calls for industry accountability similar to measures taken in Europe to protect children’s skin health, finances, and mental well-being.
Mothers across the country are seeking advice from dermatologists regarding their young daughters’ skincare routines and the potential harm caused by inappropriate products. Some mothers, like Mia’s, have taken drastic measures by throwing away their children’s skincare products to protect them from harmful effects. The psychological consequences of skincare obsession, including anxiety and self-consciousness, are significant concerns for parents, who hope for more regulatory protections and warning labels on skincare products marketed to children.
The phenomenon of preteen girls obsessing over skincare products highlights the broader impact of social media on youth, particularly girls, who are inundated with idealized images of beauty and lifestyles that can be unattainable. The negative effects of extended exposure to social media on mental health are a growing concern, as evidenced by high levels of sadness and hopelessness reported among young people. The intersection of beauty standards, consumerism, and social media presents a complex challenge for parents, educators, and policymakers seeking to protect children from harm and promote healthy self-esteem and body image.
