The trend of preteen girls using adult skin care products is becoming increasingly common, leading to harmful effects on their skin and potential long-term consequences for their mental health. Girls as young as 8 are experiencing rashes, chemical burns, and other allergic reactions to products not intended for their sensitive skin. Dermatologists warn that using anti-aging skin care products can actually cause premature aging, destroy the skin barrier, and lead to permanent scarring. Parents and psychologists are concerned about the impact of the trend on girls’ self-esteem, body image, and mental well-being.
The obsession with skin care among young girls is driven by a desire to fit in and be accepted in a community that values a specific lifestyle and appearance. Social media influencers play a significant role in promoting beauty products and routines, creating a sense of connection and belonging among their young followers. Girls like 14-year-old Mia Hall feel pressured to follow beauty trends in order to feel attractive and confident, leading them to spend their allowances on high-end skincare products. The level of detail and information provided in beauty tutorials sends a troubling message to girls at an already vulnerable age as they navigate puberty and identity formation.
The cosmetics industry is profiting off of the trend, with consumers under age 14 driving a significant portion of skin care sales. While some brands acknowledge that certain products are not suitable for children, they have done little to prevent young buyers from purchasing them. Ingredients like retinol and chemical exfoliants can be harsh on young and sensitive skin, causing redness, peeling, burning, and other adverse reactions. Legislation in Europe has set limits on the concentration of retinol in over-the-counter products, and some companies have taken steps to protect underage consumers from potentially harmful skincare products.
Concerned parents are seeking guidance from dermatologists about their children’s skincare routines, as young girls are increasingly experiencing skin issues and mental health consequences from using adult skincare products. Some mothers have taken the step of throwing away their daughters’ skincare products in an effort to protect their skin and well-being. While girls may resist the changes initially, many ultimately see improvements in their skin and overall happiness. In some cases, extreme reactions like burns and rashes have prompted parents to take action and advocate for stricter regulations on skincare marketed to children.
The impact of social media on young girls’ beauty standards and self-esteem is a growing concern, as they are constantly bombarded with idealized images of beauty that can be difficult or impossible to attain. Experts warn that a fixation on appearance at a young age can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues later in life. Girls like Scarlett Goddard Strahan, who experienced burns and blisters from using adult skincare products, are dealing with not only physical damage but also emotional and psychological effects from the pressure to achieve a certain beauty standard. As the beauty industry continues to target young consumers, parents, lawmakers, and advocates are calling for more oversight and protections to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
