PORTLAND, Ore. (February 22, 2023): Fueled by the influence of social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube, an increasing number of teens and tweens are becoming obsessed with skincare. A 2023 survey reveals a surge of 19% year-over-year in average spending among teens on skincare, color cosmetics and fragrance, now totaling $324 annually. With this growing trend sweeping the nation, what should parents know?
“Teens and tweens are getting the idea that we need a lot of complicated, multi-step skin care routines, but for most young people that’s just not true,” said Dr. Jessica Smith, dermatologist with Kaiser Permanente Northwest. “Social media can trick young people into thinking that to look our best, we need to do the most. Marketing tells us that we need these toners, serums, moisturizers, cleansers, creams, sunscreens — every day, twice a day. But the truth is that young skin does not need pricey, heavy creams designed for mature skin, and some products can harm young skin.”
Children’s skin is more sensitive than most adults' skin, and certain products can be harsh. This can break down the skin barrier and cause irritation, redness and inflammation, allergic reactions, dryness, and acne breakouts. A child's skincare regimen should be basic. It includes a daily bath with a gentle cleanser, followed by application of an oil-free moisturizer.
Tweens should use products that are creamy, fragrance-free and additive-free. Parents are advised to look at the labels of skincare products with their tweens and look for products that are inexpensive, non-comedogenic (don’t clog pores) and fragrance-free. Some ingredients to avoid include products that exfoliate (contain salicylic/glycolic acids, micro-beads, or retinoids), peptide growth factors, synthetic dyes and fragrance.
Interviews available
Dr. Jessica Smith, dermatologist with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, is available for Zoom interviews with media this Friday, Feb. 23 from 9-11:30 a.m. Contact Karen Vitt to schedule.
Dr. Smith is prepared to discuss:
• Why are teens and tweens obsessed with skin care?
• Why are some skin care products harmful to young people’s skin?
• What are the side effects of teens using products targeted for mature skin?
• What ingredients should parents help teens avoid in their skincare products?
• What is a healthy skincare regimen for teens?
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