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| Photo: iStock |
For many teens, these routines aren’t just for fun
anymore—they’ve become part of daily life. Whether it's a 13-year-old copying a
favorite influencer or a 9-year-old begging their parent to buy the newest
viral toner, these beauty habits are spreading fast. Social media has turned
skincare into a performance, and young people are trying to keep up. But here’s
the truth: behind the glow and filters, these routines can be confusing,
expensive, and harmful—especially for skin that is still growing
and changing.
Many teens are now spending hundreds of dollars on products
they may not even need. Even more concerning, they’re using ingredients that
could hurt their skin, like strong acids or anti-aging creams meant for adults.
The influence of TikTok makes it easy to forget that everyone’s skin is
different—and what works for a 25-year-old influencer might not be safe for a
13-year-old student.
In this blog, we’re going to explore the real story behind the TikTok skincare craze. We’ll look at what the research says, why dermatologists are worried, and how social media is shaping how teens feel about themselves. Most importantly, we’ll share what young skin actually needs—because skincare shouldn’t be painful, stressful, or expensive. It should be safe, simple, and smart.
How Teen Voices on TikTok Turn Into Risky Routines
On TikTok, teens love to share their daily skincare
routines—toners, serums, exfoliants, creams—often using six or more products
before school. These videos come with catchy music and glowing results that
lure viewers into thinking complex routines are necessary. Unfortunately, teens
are repeating influencer-made habits without knowing what their skin needs.
Researchers at Northwestern University studied 100 TikTok
skincare regimen videos made by young teens and tweens. They discovered that
many routines are overkill: on average, teens use six products daily, costing
around $168 USD, and sometimes reaching over $500. Most daytime
routines skip sunscreen, and 76% include fragrances, which are
common allergens. Even worse, many routines use citric acid—a powerful
exfoliant that can weaken skin barriers and increase sun sensitivity.
Dr. Molly Hales, who led the study, warns that the “risks
far outweigh the marginal benefits.” Unlike adults, teen skin is still
developing and doesn’t need a six-step routine. Instead, experts say a gentle
cleanser and daily sunscreen are sufficient for healthy young skin.
Photo: iStock
Why Real Skin Experts and Parents Are Concerned
This flashy skincare craze isn’t just expensive—it’s
unhealthy. Dermatologists are seeing more teens with irritated, itchy skin from
layered products and harsh chemicals like AHAs and retinoids. Dr. Carol Cheng
at UCLA shares that “patients as young as 8 or 9 are coming in with redness,
peeling, burning” caused by overuse of facial products.
The British Association of Dermatologists has also voiced
serious concerns: children’s skin isn’t ready for adult-level ingredients. A
six-year-old using glycolic acid or retinol can end up with irreversible
damage and lifelong sensitivity. In California, lawmakers are considering
banning anti-aging cosmetics for minors to prevent exposure to harmful
ingredients like Vitamin A derivatives.
Parents often feel helpless. One Reddit user shares how even
trained skin professionals can't always persuade their teens to stop layering
products: “Family member is a specialist… but we are powerless against social
media pressure”. Another recalls seeing an eight-year-old spending nearly $200
on anti-aging products—only to be told by a store clerk that hyaluronic acid or
toner isn’t needed for her age.
Beyond Skin Deep: Mental & Financial Impact on Teens
Following these trendy routines to “fit in” on TikTok goes
beyond skin—it affects emotions and money. For teens like 14-year‑old Mia Hall,
skincare became a way to belong. She saved her allowance for Sephora visits,
trying hydrating mask after mask to match her peers. She admits feeling jealous
and believing she had to “buy in” to be accepted.
Psychologists note that TikTok’s endless “perfect skin”
visuals boost teen anxiety, self-criticism, and a feeling of not being good
enough. Perfectionism takes hold early, and failure to achieve the influencer
look worsens self-esteem.
A deeper concern: these routines teach teens that beauty
equals cost. With routines reaching hundreds of dollars, teens from less
wealthy families feel left out, fueling social comparison and emotional
distress.
Check out my breakdown of the Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser to learn all about its benefits and how it can fit into your routine.
What Teens Actually Need: Simple, Safe, Smart
Teen skin doesn’t need elaborate routines. A trusted
pediatric dermatologist, Dr. Allison Zarbo, says simplicity is best—especially
during puberty when skin tissue is thin and sensitive. Preteens should stick
to:
- A gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser once or twice daily
- A light moisturizer to keep skin barrier healthy
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning, reapplying midday if out in sun
That’s all. If acne appears, an OTC benzoyl peroxide wash
(2.5–5%) is better than layering serums. For persistent issues, visit a
professional—don’t self-treat.
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| Photo: iStock |
Experts emphasize that teens should focus on age-appropriate skincare, not adult anti-aging creams or powerful acids. Parents also play a key role: having open conversations, and guiding teens toward healthy routines helps build good habits and protect skin health.
Think Before You Trend
TikTok skincare trends may look fun and fulfilling—but for
teens, they often cause more harm than good. Research is clear: complex
routines can damage skin, harm mental health, and cost too much, while offering
little benefit. Teen skin is not adult skin—and it deserves care that is smart,
safe, and simple.
Teens reading this: your skincare regimen isn't a reflection of your beauty. Put an emphasis on self-confidence that begins with sensitive care and healthy behaviors. Spread the word about this to your friends, parents, and other beauty enthusiasts so that we can all support safe, practical skincare.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. Are TikTok skincare routines safe for teens?
A: Not always. Many popular TikTok routines include strong ingredients like acids and anti-aging serums that are too harsh for young skin. These can cause redness, irritation, and long-term damage if used without professional guidance.
Q2. What skincare routine is best for teenagers?
A: A simple routine works best: gentle cleanser, lightweight moisturizer, and sunscreen every morning. Teens don’t need multiple products unless a dermatologist recommends them for specific concerns like acne.
Q3. Why are dermatologists worried about teen skincare trends?
A: Dermatologists are seeing more teens with damaged skin from using products they don’t need. Teens are being influenced by trends, not science—leading to dryness, breakouts, or allergic reactions from layering too many products.
Q4. How much should teens spend on skincare?
A: Teens don’t need expensive products. A complete, safe skincare routine can cost less than $30. Viral products often cost over $100 but don’t offer better results for young skin.
Q5. Can parents help teens avoid harmful skincare habits?
A: Yes. Parents can talk with teens about safe skincare, help them understand what their skin really needs, and encourage advice from doctors instead of influencers. It’s about building confidence, not just beauty.
Explore more skin care tips and product reviews on Fresh Skin For U!
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