Children aged 10 and over are demanding anti-aging products, say British dermatologists

Leading dermatologists have said that children as young as 10 are pressuring their parents to buy them expensive, anti-aging care products, which experts say can damage their delicate skin.

Dermatologists expressed concern that this trend, driven largely by girls seeing products on social media, was making children “obsessed with growing older.” Experts recommend a simple skin care routine at a young age, such as cleaning twice a day and using a light moisturizer, as well as sunscreen when UV rays are high.

Dr. Emma Wedgeworth, from the British Cosmetic Dermatology Group, said that as a mother of a 12-year-old girl she had experience of the trend both professionally and personally.

“It’s something I see all the time (at work) and as a mother it’s… something I struggle with too. I am interested in skin conditions in adolescents and see that many teens are brought in by their parents and use expensive and extensive skin care routines,” Wedgeworth said.

“They spend a huge amount of time on their skincare routine before and after school… I think, like anything, it’s about moderation.”

Dr. Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist at Self London, said she was seeing the trend more often in her clinics.

She said: “Most are heavily influenced by social media (particularly TikTok) and influencers showing off their in-depth routines, usually accompanied by luxury skincare brands. Despite their young age, there is often an unhealthy focus on anti-aging. There’s also a certain amount of keeping up with their friends, and often chopping and changing their skin care to clear up their acne, when what they really need is medical intervention.

“I worry about using ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin A (retinoids) and exfoliating acids like AHAs and BHAs. They are not necessary on young skin and I think the psychological aspect of starting an ‘anti-aging’ routine at a young age is harmful. Unfortunately, in my clinic I see more and more teenagers who are obsessed with growing older. It is worrying and it is undoubtedly fueled by social media.”