More than a quarter (25.7%) of UK children aged 9–12 are now using skincare products containing strong, age-inappropriate active ingredients such as retinol and AHAs. At the same time, there has been a 21% rise in teenagers using anti-ageing products.
With TikTok skincare routines racking up billions of views and children as young as nine reportedly using anti wrinkle products, dermatologists are urging parents to reconsider when – and how – young people should begin skincare.
According to experts at The Devonshire Clinic, skincare in childhood should focus on protection, not prevention of ageing. Dr Conal Perrett, Consultant Dermatologist at The Devonshire Clinic, says: “We’re seeing a noticeable rise in teenagers, and even pre-teens, adopting complex skincare routines influenced by social media. The truth is that most young skin does not need active ingredients such as retinol or exfoliating acids.
What it does need is protection. “We’re concerned that children are being marketed adult skincare concerns. There is also a psychological impact in telling a 12-year old they need anti-wrinkle products.”
Dermatologists are already seeing the consequences. Skin barrier damage, irritation from over-exfoliation and sensitivity caused by layering active ingredients are becoming increasingly common in young patients.
Meanwhile, search interest in “teen skincare” has soared by 217% in the past month alone, while TikTok’s #skincare hashtag has amassed over 47 million posts. Dr Perrett says the ideal age to start a skincare
routine depends on skin health, not beauty trends. For children under 12, a basic moisturiser and daily
SPF are usually enough. During the teenage years, a gentle cleanser, lightweight moisturiser and broad spectrum SPF can help manage oiliness and acne.
“Sun protection is the single most important skincare step at any age,” Dr Perrett explains. “Preventative skincare becomes relevant in the mid-twenties, when collagen production naturally begins to decline – not at 13.” Dermatologists advise parents to focus on three key rules: make SPF non-negotiable, avoid trend driven active ingredients for under-16s, and seek medical advice for persistent acne rather than relying on influencer recommendations.
