The Rising Trend: Preteens and Anti-Aging Skincare Products
A concerning trend is on the rise: preteens are increasingly demanding anti-aging skincare products. They mimic the language of influencers, despite having no need for such treatments. Medical experts are raising alarms about the influence of social media, warning that young people are being lured into using potentially harmful products designed for mature skin.
“Simply put, teenagers don’t have wrinkles,” explains Dr. Rosemary deShazo, a dermatologist at University of Utah Health. “They might see lines when they smile, but those are just natural facial expressions.” Health professionals strongly advise preteens to avoid products labeled with terms like “anti-aging,” “wrinkle-reducing,” and “firming.” These often contain active ingredients that are unsuitable for young skin.
This trend is a reflection of the broader social media pressure. Gen Alpha now accounts for nearly 49% of skincare sales growth. Dermatologists recommend simple routines consisting of:
- Gentle cleanser
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen
They warn that inappropriate products can cause skin irritation, breakouts, and long-term damage to developing skin barriers.