Adult Skincare Products are Not Safe for Kids. Here’s Why.

This practice of kids having an elaborate skincare routine is not only unnecessary, but potentially harmful. Many of these routines call for products designed only for adult skin, such as anti-aging creams and other serums with potent ingredients. 

>Related: Attorney General Tong Cautions Parents Regarding Anti-Aging Skincare Products Marketed to Kids on Social Media 

2. Children’s skin is much more sensitive than adult skin.

This is a known fact that many are alarmingly choosing to ignore. Using adult skincare products can harm the young population and cause:

• Irritation
• Redness
• Breakouts
• Other longer-term damage, especially disruption of the natural skin barrier as children mature
   

This skinfluencer trend highlights the importance of what growing kids’ skin needs—and what it doesn’t need. For curious preteens, pediatric healthcare professionals recommend:

• A gentle cleanser
• Daily sunscreen to protect skin
• A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer 

If acne is at play, certain products can be helpful, but it’s crucial to ask your child’s doctor what is safe, and what isn’t. There’s a lot on the market—and it’s easy to fall into the trap of wanting to try it all. 

4. Which skincare products should children stay away from?

Products with retinol, high-strength AHAs, other acids and “active ingredients” are not meant for young, developing skin.

Parents, it’s time to put the parental controls on skincare just as you would for any gaming or social media platform. By working together with your child, you can help prevent unnecessary harm and ensure that they grow up with the healthiest skin possible.