Last month, the British Association for Dermatologists (BAD) noted that the growing trend of children as young as eight using medical-grade skincare products could leave them with irreversible skin problems.1 This is because they may contain potentially harmful active ingredients intended for adult skin, such as exfoliating acids.
Dr Derrick Phillips, a consultant dermatologist, explains, “The use of harsh actives such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and retinol in young skin can cause irritation, dermatitis and in severe cases, chemical burns. They can also aggravate pre-existing conditions such as eczema.”
Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist, has commented that teens and tweens seem to have a growing skincare obsession due to TikTok, backed up by reports from Gen Z that they use the social platform for education.2
She explains, “Spend a few minutes scrolling through TikTok and you'll encounter countless videos where teens/tweens meticulously flaunt their extensive skincare routines, often fixating on…
