TikTok’s ‘Sephora Kids’: Early Skincare Overload in Children Risks Lifelong Skin Allergies

"Sephora Kids" and TikTok’s Viral Skincare Trend: Dermatologists Warn of Risks

TikTok’s viral "get ready with me" videos have popularized elaborate skincare routines, but experts caution that children—dubbed "Sephora kids"—are mimicking these trends with dangerous consequences. A Northwestern University study reveals children as young as seven are using up to 15 skincare products daily, risking skin irritation, allergies, and sun sensitivity.

Skincare routines are trending on TikTok, but experts warn they may harm young users.

Researchers analyzed 100 TikTok videos posted by users aged 7–18, often featuring multi-step regimens promising "glowy" skin. Teens spent an average of $168 per routine, with some exceeding $500. Common ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and retinoids—meant for acne-prone or mature skin—dominated routines, even among girls without skin issues.

Hidden Dangers in Viral Routines
Many videos included 10+ irritating ingredients, raising risks of contact dermatitis, a lifelong allergy affecting product tolerance. Dr. Molly Hales, co-author of the study, noted overlapping ingredients and overuse of exfoliants as key culprits. Shockingly, only 26% of routines included sunscreen, despite its being dermatologists’ top recommendation.

Young users often layer multiple products, unaware of risks.

Alarming Reactions Ignored
In clips analyzed, creators dismiss visible harm. One teen’s face turned red and burned after applying 10 products, while another with braces used 14 items, joking, “Ignore how red my face is…it hurts a lot.” Dr. Tara Lagu, the study’s senior author, emphasized that routines often provided "little benefit" to clear-skinned users, yet posed serious health risks.

Beauty Standards and "Self-Care" Pressures
Beyond physical harm, researchers criticized the promotion of unattainable beauty ideals. Videos emphasized lighter, "glass-like" skin, framing intensive routines as "self-care." Girls showcased waking at 4:30 a.m. to prep for school, reinforcing toxic standards tied to health and appearance.

Celebrity influence fuels young users’ expensive habits.

Parental Guidance Needed
With skincare advice spreading unchecked, experts urge parents to monitor children’s social media use. Tips include enabling parental controls, discussing online safety, and limiting screen time. The WHO recommends under two hours daily for kids, stressing real-world engagement over curated trends.

Costly routines risk lifelong skin damage.

Takeaway
While TikTok’s skincare craze shows no sign of slowing, dermatologists stress simplicity for young skin: gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen suffice. Parents must balance allowing self-expression with protecting children from harmful trends—both on their screens and their skin.

For online safety tips, see methods like parental controls and open dialogue in the original article.

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