The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) has called for clearer labelling on skincare products containing ingredients unsuitable for children.
BAD has urged for packaging to carry more explicit warnings, including information about the risks of irritation, allergy and possible long-term skin damage. This comes after an ITV News investigation prompted renewed calls for stronger warnings on products unsuitable for young skin. The report found children as young as four were using products designed to target wrinkles and other signs of ageing in social media skincare routines.
Dermatologist and aesthetic practitioner Dr Derrick Phillips, said, “From a dermatology perspective, there is no need for children to be using antiageing skincare products. Retinol and other retinoids are slightly different because they do have an established role in the treatment of acne. They can therefore be appropriate for some teenagers when being used for this indication, ideally with suitable guidance or medical supervision. However, that is very different from children routinely using retinol as part of an antiageing skincare routine.”
The Advertising Standards Authority commented, “At this point, we haven’t seen evidence of inappropriate advertising of skincare products to children, but it’s an area we’re continuing to explore. In terms of our rules, advertisers have a responsibility to ensure that their adverts are socially responsible.”