TikTok Skincare Trends: A Parent & Teen Guide to Healthy, Happy Skin
The world of skincare has made its way into the teenage bedroom, and it’s often via TikTok. Short, snappy videos promise “glass skin” and “instant glow,” and before you know it, teens as young as 12 are layering multiple serums, acids, and retinoids like mini dermatologists. I read a Northwestern Medicine study that detailed a fascinating and, honestly, worrying report for parents and skincare professionals. Researchers looked at skincare routines posted on TikTok by girls aged 7 to 18 and found that many were using an average of six products per routine, often layering strong active ingredients like retinoids, exfoliating acids, and potent vitamin C. While these actives can be beneficial for mature or problem skin when used correctly, the study warns that on young, still-developing skin, they can damage the skin barrier and lead to allergic contact dermatitis, a reaction that can persist for life. Why? Children and teens have more permeable skin barriers than adults, making them more...
