Teen Skincare: Is It Doing More Harm?
- new Orleans resident Mary Margaret Gorman noticed the trend a few years ago: face masks as party favors among her daughters' friends.
- Fueled by viral social media videos,elaborate skin care routines are now common among teens and even younger children.
- A Northwestern University study analyzed 100 skin care videos featuring creators aged 7 to 18.Researchers found that products frequently contained citric and glycolic acids,which can increase sun sensitivity...
Is your teen’s skincare routine doing more harm than good? This thorough analysis explores the rising trend of teens embracing complex skincare regimens, frequently enough inspired by social media. Dermatologists are sounding the alarm about the potential dangers of adult-oriented products for sensitive young skin. We examine a recent Northwestern University study revealing the prevalence of harsh ingredients in popular teen skincare videos. Find out which products, like sunscreen and gentle cleansers, are generally recommended, and why a tailored approach is crucial for each individual. News Directory 3 offers insights into the latest research and expert advice. Discover what’s next in teen skincare and how to protect your child’s skin.
Updated June 29, 2025
new Orleans resident Mary Margaret Gorman noticed the trend a few years ago: face masks as party favors among her daughters’ friends. Gorman observed that her daughters possess a multitude of skin care products.
Fueled by viral social media videos,elaborate skin care routines are now common among teens and even younger children. These videos often promote 12-step regimens using toners, cleansers, and moisturizers designed for adult skin. However, dermatologists caution that these products offer minimal benefit to young skin and may even cause harm. The focus on teen skin care is a growing concern.
A Northwestern University study analyzed 100 skin care videos featuring creators aged 7 to 18.Researchers found that products frequently contained citric and glycolic acids,which can increase sun sensitivity and cause irritation. Alarmingly, only 25% of daytime routines included sunscreen.
Hydroxy acid,frequently enough used to treat acne,was another common ingredient. The study, published in Pediatrics, concluded that for teens without acne, the risk of allergic contact dermatitis outweighs any potential benefits.
Dr. Deirdre Hooper, a dermatologist in New Orleans, said her young patients, including her own daughter, are adopting “complex, multistep regimens that are being promoted by social media and not by board-certified dermatologists.”
Hooper added that these products are often a waste of money. The Northwestern study found the average skin care regimen cost $168, with some exceeding $600.
“When you are young, you have such good natural protection and resilience to your skin, you don’t need to buy a bunch of products,” Hooper said.
More Harm than Good
Many adult skin care products are to strong for young skin. Hydroxy acids, such as glycolic or lactic acid, are chemical peels designed for older skin and are too harsh for adolescents, according to Hooper.
Dr. Amina Ahmed, a pediatrician in Los Gatos, CA, said retinol is generally unnecessary for those under 20, as it’s intended to build collagen to reduce wrinkles.
Ahmed also noted that thick moisturizers for older skin can clog pores in adolescents, who naturally produce more sebum due to hormonal changes. Layering products can exacerbate this effect.
Some of ahmed’s patients experience perioral dermatitis, a red facial rash resulting from a disrupted skin microbiome.
“Sometimes all these products upset the natural pH and microbe balance, which can make you more susceptible to things like dermatitis,” she said, adding that discontinuing excessive product use frequently enough resolves the condition.
Fragrances and preservatives in personal care products can also trigger allergic contact dermatitis, perhaps leading to allergies. The Northwestern study revealed that half the products in the videos contained added fragrance.
Hooper mentioned that some videos featured vitamin C serums, antioxidants that protect against pollution and sun damage. While not harmful, she considers them unnecessary for young skin.
“If you try an antioxidant and it doesn’t irritate your skin, it’s OK with me as a morning routine. But the ones I know work are expensive, and I don’t think I would recommend it to kids because they don’t need them,” she said.
Which Skin Care Products Should Teens use?
Ahmed and Hooper agree that skin care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Individual approaches to teen skin care are essential.
“A lot of patients think, if it works for my friend, it should work for me. But everyone’s skin type is different; you may be using something that is causing more acne on your face,” Ahmed said.
Though, some general guidelines apply. Ahmed advises daily sunscreen use, especially during outdoor activities.
“Moast sun damage happens when you’re young,” she said.
Teens can also use a gentle cleanser, but only one.
Twelve-step routines “usually have multiple cleansers. They don’t need to do all of that, they just need a mild cleanser to remove the excess sebum and dirt from their faces,” Ahmed said.
Hooper suggests washing the face only at night and using a light moisturizer for dry skin.
Ahmed recommends parents shift the focus from beauty to health when discussing skin care with their children.
“It’s not a bad thing to take care of your skin,” she said.