The TikTok trend of “get ready with me” videos offer a glimpse into the daily lives of others, from how they choose their outfits to a step-by-step guide to their skincare routines. These routines have inspired many kids and teens to develop a routine of their own.
While taking care of one’s skin is always a good idea, a new study shows increasingly popular multi-step routines could be doing more harm than good for the younger generations.
Study findings
A newly published study out of Northwestern University analyzed the beauty routines of more than 80 different TikTok content creators between the ages of 7 and 18 and found many of the ingredients they’re using are not good for young skin.
The researchers behind the study identified an average of 11 ingredients that carry a risk of developing skin allergies and increased sun sensitivity, while only about a quarter of the products used contained sunscreen.
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Many skincare routines popular among kids and teens on TikTok require an average of 6 steps and can cost upwards of $168 per month.
Costly and time consuming
The study found the average routine was six steps long, including things like cleansers, toners, serums and moisturizers. Many different products can get pricey, as well. Researchers say the routines they analyzed cost an average of $168 dollars for one month’s worth of products, but some topped $500.
Fountain of youth
Experts also say many of these products claim to keep you looking younger longer, but for those not showing any signs of aging, they don’t accomplish anything.
Javon Ford, a cosmetic chemist, told CNN that what kids and teens often don’t realize about the skincare routine videos they’re watching is that they’re targeting an older audience. That means while popular ingredients like retinols, exfoliating acids and vitamin C may be a good part of an adult’s daily routine, they can damage kids’ skin barriers if they haven’t yet fully formed.
Many ingredients also carry the risk of triggering lifelong allergies. The Northwestern study found more than half the products contained fragrance, as well as 20 other inactive ingredients that are known allergens.
How should kids and teens care for their skin?
Experts say the best things younger people can do to care for their skin are to stick to gentle cleansers with no active ingredients, use fragrance-free moisturizers and wear mineral-based sunscreens. For those prone to acne and breakouts, experts advise looking for products with salicylic acid or a low percentage of benzoyl peroxide. Consulting a dermatologist on what products to use is always a good idea.
