Skincare cosmetics for teens? The doctor warns of the risks

Skincare cosmetics for teens? The doctor warns of the risks


Teens who suffer from acne and other age-related problems should be careful with skin care formulas.

An event in the United States called “Sephora Tweens” became a trend on Tiktok late last year and attracted media attention. Some children and preteens broke into the Sephora cosmetics and makeup store to record themselves using the store’s skin care products available for testing. Due to the influence of social media, these young people are purchasing skin care products without consulting a dermatologist.




However, skin hygiene and the use of sunscreen are the only essential steps for healthy skin during adolescence, warns dermatologist Dr. Juliana Piquet. He points out that purchasing skin products without the advice of a professional can be harmful due to many factors.

“Use of inappropriate active ingredients, sensitization, irritation, contact dermatitis, allergy, acne are some of these. Sun protection should always be the basis of any treatment aimed at the health and beauty of the skin. In the 12-15 year age group, the presence of acne is common, to varying degrees and with possible consequences such as blemishes and scars. consultation and personalized advice is ideal at this age,” says the doctor.

Products suitable for teenagers

According to the dermatologist, one of the active ingredients prescribed for this age group is salicylic acid. It is an option for young people who want to reduce pimples and control oiliness. However, it is always important to consult a specialist doctor.

Niacinamide is another active ingredient widely used by digital influencers on social media. According to the doctor, it has antioxidant, depigmenting, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, making it a very versatile active ingredient.

“At this age it can be an adjuvant in the treatment of acne and any resulting hyperpigmentation. It is an active ingredient that is usually well tolerated, but on its own it is usually not sufficient to control acne”, says the dermatologist.

When to see a dermatologist

Skincare routine videos made by bloggers on social media have influenced this question. With this in mind, Juliana explains when teenagers should start requests with a dermatologist.

”In general, when the changes resulting from puberty begin to appear, with the skin becoming oilier and the appearance of the first blackheads and occasional pimples. I have recently received patients even before this stage, brought by parents concerned about the incorrect use of cosmetic skin care and makeup products for clarification and advice,” he says.

Procedures beyond skin care

In addition to the excessive search for makeup and cosmetics, Generation Z also consumes aesthetic procedures, such as fillers and botulinum toxin, from an early age. According to plastic surgeon Maiéve Corralo, director of the Instituto Maiéve Corralo (RJ), botulinum toxin should not be started before the age of 25, ideally only after the age of 30.

“Mouth fillers before the age of 30 only if there is really an anatomical change that creates disproportion,” he emphasizes. This is because, according to her, the trivialization of these procedures can generate irreversible consequences, especially if performed by professionals without experience or guidance.

For plastic surgeons it is essential to always avoid standardization. “The goal should always be respect for individual beauty,” says the doctor.

Another warning from the professional is that comparisons should always be avoided, which is difficult these days, with the digital age so advanced. “Be very careful when using filters. Natural grooves are anatomical, do not try to eliminate them. Enhance your individuality, because that is what makes you unique and beautiful”, concludes the specialist.

Source: Terra

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