THE WHAT? Experts are warning about a growing phenomenon known as “cosmeticorexia”, where children and young teenagers develop an unhealthy obsession with skincare routines and cosmetic products, fuelled largely by social media trends and influencer culture.
THE DETAILS The trend has seen children as young as eight adopting multi-step skincare regimens involving toners, serums, moisturisers and anti-ageing products typically formulated for adults. Dermatologists report increasing numbers of young people using extensive skincare routines, often influenced by beauty content on platforms such as TikTok. Health professionals have also reported a rise in cases of skin irritation, contact dermatitis and other adverse reactions linked to the use of inappropriate skincare products by children and young teenagers. The phenomenon has attracted regulatory attention, with Italy’s competition authority investigating whether certain beauty brands and influencers may be indirectly encouraging children to purchase products not intended for their age group.
THE WHY? Health experts are concerned that excessive skincare use may damage young skin and contribute to long-term psychological issues, including anxiety, low self-esteem and body image concerns. The trend also highlights broader questions about the influence of social media, beauty marketing and influencer culture on children’s perceptions of appearance and self-worth.
Source: BBC
