Experts are warning of a growing trend of “dermorexia” – an obsession with skincare – among children, linked to influencers on TikTok and Instagram.
What is Dermorexia?
Dermorexia manifests as excessive and often inappropriate use of skincare products, including those designed for adults like serums and anti-aging creams. Specialists emphasize that children have no physiological need for these types of products, and their use can cause more harm than good.
Potential consequences include skin irritation, allergies, and disruption of the skin’s natural protective barrier.
Psychological Consequences
Experts also point to psychological effects. Excessive focus on appearance can lead to lowered self-esteem, the development of complexes, and even anxiety and depression. Early adoption of “beauty improvement” schemes can reinforce unrealistic beauty standards and impact youth development.
The “Sephora Kids” Trend
A dangerous trend known as “Sephora Kids” is gaining popularity, where young social media users share skincare and makeup advice. While cosmetic companies state they do not target children, experts believe a lack of regulation and increasing image pressure can exacerbate the problem of dermorexia among the youngest.
Regulatory Scrutiny
Public institutions are also taking notice. According to Reuters, the Italian competition authority is investigating LVMH, owner of Sephora, for suspected hidden marketing strategies that may have reached very young audiences, including children under 10.
Social Media’s Role
The growing popularity of beauty content on social media is having concerning effects, with increasing numbers of children and adolescents exhibiting symptoms of dermorexia – an obsession with perfect skin. This phenomenon is driven by short videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where young influencers promote elaborate skincare routines.