Teenagers are increasingly turning to social media platforms like TikTok for beauty and skincare inspiration. However, a recent study conducted by scientists at Northwestern Medicine has shed light on the potential risks associated with following these teen skin-care routines.
The study focused on girls aged 7 to 18 who were using an average of six different products on their faces, with some using more than a dozen products. These products, marketed heavily to younger consumers, were found to carry a high risk of skin irritation and allergy. The findings were published in the journal Pediatrics.
On average, each teen’s daily skin-care regimen costs $168, with some costing over $500. Shockingly, only 26% of daytime skin-care regimens included sunscreen, a crucial product for skin protection. The study also found that the top-viewed videos contained an average of 11 potentially irritating active ingredients, putting content creators at risk of developing skin irritation, sun sensitivity, and allergic contact dermatitis.
Dr. Molly Hales, the corresponding author of the study and a board-certified dermatologist, highlighted the dangers of using multiple active ingredients simultaneously and repeatedly. Some videos showcased teens applying numerous products in a short amount of time, leading to discomfort, burning, and visible skin reactions.
Furthermore, the study revealed that some videos emphasized lighter, brighter skin, perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and consumerism. These videos offer little to no benefit to the pediatric populations they target, and it’s challenging for parents or pediatricians to monitor the content their children are viewing.
Dr. Tara Lagu, the senior author of the study, expressed concerns about the high standards set for young girls regarding their skin. The pursuit of health has become intertwined with beauty ideals, creating unrealistic expectations. The study involved creating a new TikTok account to analyze the content and products used in these skin-care routines.
In conclusion, the study warns about the potential risks associated with following teen skin-care routines on TikTok. It’s essential for parents to be aware of the content their children are exposed to and to educate them about safe and effective skin-care practices. Beauty should not come at the cost of skin health, and it’s crucial to prioritize sunscreen and minimal product usage to prevent long-term skin damage.
For more information, you can access the study titled “Pediatric Skin Care Regimens on TikTok” published in Pediatrics. This study was conducted by researchers at Northwestern University.
