On TikTok, ultra-sophisticated beauty routines are no longer reserved for adults. More and more children and teenagers are adopting them... even at the risk of endangering their still-immature skin. A US study warns of a booming trend.
Skincare series from 7 years old
Cleanser, serum, night cream, toner... On social media, children are starting to mimic adult gestures with disconcerting ease. Choreographed videos in which young girls aged 7 to 18 demonstrate their skincare routines are racking up millions of views on TikTok. But behind this staging, a far less glamorous reality looms.
Dermatologists and researchers are warning: this new obsession with facial care, modeled on the routines of beauty influencers, can damage the skin of young people. A study published in the journal Pediatrics in May 2025, conducted by researchers at Northwestern University, provides proof.
An alarming study
For this research, the scientists analyzed 100 TikTok videos in which young users detail their beauty routines. To accurately capture content accessible to minors, they created fake accounts posing as 13-year-olds.
The results are clear: among the 100 designers analyzed, 82 were girls, aged 7 to 18. On average, they use six different products in each routine, for an average total cost of 147 euros. However, these products are rarely age-appropriate.
"The risks associated with the use of these cosmetics, particularly for young girls, are far greater than the minimal benefits they may gain from them," warns Molly Hales, lead author of the study, in the Guardian.
Skin that is still fragile
In adolescents, the skin barrier is still developing. Using strong exfoliants, anti-aging actives, or overly fragranced products can cause redness, dryness, allergies, or acne breakouts. In other words, overdoing it can harm the skin, rather than enhance it.
And that's not all. Only 26% of the daytime products used in the analyzed videos contained a sunscreen, which is essential at any age to prevent UV damage. This lack of consistency is worrying health professionals, especially since the goal of these routines seems more aesthetic than dermatological.
"We're seeing a massive increase in consultations related to skin reactions caused by unsuitable cosmetics," says British dermatologist Tess McPherson, also interviewed by The Guardian . "Many young people want perfect skin, without pores or imperfections, which is both unrealistic and unnecessary."
A simple routine is enough
Faced with this worrying trend, experts are advocating for a minimalist approach. Molly Hales, the study's lead researcher, recommends sticking to two essential steps: gentle cleansing once or twice a day and daily sunscreen.
So there's no need to invest in ten-step routines or $80 serums. Good hygiene, proper hydration, and sun protection are generally enough to maintain healthy skin for children and adolescents.
Educate, rather than make people feel guilty
Far from condemning young people who want to take care of themselves, experts are calling for better dermatological education. It's not about banning, but about guiding. Especially since the pressure to achieve "perfect skin" is now permeating at a very early age via social media.
Educating children and their parents to differentiate between marketing and health, and to recognize the real needs of their skin, is now a priority. Because being 12 shouldn't rhyme with anti-aging serum.
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