Skincare is no longer just for adults; children are actively seeking anti-aging products, driven by social media influence. The podcast highlights the surprising shift from toys to beauty items among young consumers. Dermatologists warn of potential skin issues arising from unsuitable products. There's a growing pressure on parents to meet these demands, raising concerns about children's delicate skin. Discussions also focus on better education and accountability for both parents and retailers to navigate this evolving landscape.
Young children and teenagers are increasingly interested in skincare products, influenced heavily by social media trends and aesthetic appeal.
Many skincare items aimed at youth contain harmful active ingredients, leading to potential skin issues and highlighting the need for better consumer education.
Deep dives
Rising Interest in Skincare Among Young Audiences
There is a noticeable trend of young children and teenagers becoming increasingly interested in skincare products, often seeking high-end items that typically target adults. Young individuals, like 11-year-old Tilly, exhibit enthusiasm for a range of products, showcasing collections of serums and moisturizers that are more advanced than what is suitable for their age. Online platforms like TikTok and Instagram play a significant role in influencing this interest, with visually appealing products promoting a culture of desire based on aesthetic packaging. The phenomenon is reflected in consumer data indicating that households with kids ages 6 to 12 spent substantially more on skincare in 2023 compared to previous years.
Potential Risks of Early Skincare Product Use
Many skincare products marketed to young audiences contain active ingredients that may harm their sensitive skin, leading to long-term negative effects. Pediatric dermatologists are reporting cases of chemical burns and irritant contact dermatitis in young users who apply products meant for adult skin types. These products can strip essential oils and disrupt the skin barrier, causing conditions such as hyperpigmentation. Parent awareness is crucial; however, the allure of trending products on social media complicates their ability to determine suitability for children.
Industry Responses to Skincare Trends
In Sweden, a pharmacy chain has implemented age restrictions for certain skincare products to manage the growing demand among young customers. This initiative aims to direct younger individuals towards more appropriate products while maintaining informed conversations about skincare. Industry experts suggest that social media content creators should adopt more responsible practices in their advertising to help guide younger audiences in making informed choices. While there is ongoing discussion about regulations and education around skincare safety, the beauty industry needs to balance marketing strategies without compromising product safety for young users.
Skincare used to appeal to an older demographic, often with the aim of slowing down visible signs of ageing. But as trends in skincare have evolved, with ever more products on the market, the audience has grown too.
Children as young as eight are now saving up their pocket money to buy different creams, serums and moisturizers. But some of these products contain active ingredients, not designed for their young skin - and this can lead to problems. Dermatologists have told the BBC they're seeing children with dermatitis and other skin conditions who have used certain products.
Today, we take a look at why young people are becoming obsessed with skincare, and what could be done to protect these young consumers from buying unsuitable products.
(Picture: 11 year-old Tilly, from the UK, sitting at her vanity desk. Credit: BBC)
Presented and produced by Hannah Mullane
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