We’ve all seen the typical preteens online with ten-step skincare routines. While I believe that they are far too young to be using retinol-filled products that actually make them appear older, skincare brands seem to be loving the extra attention they receive from this specific age group. Unfortunately, this overwhelming majority of younger kids, often girls, who slap various products onto their skin, usually don’t know the detrimental effects these chemicals can have on their skin.
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is found in many skincare products with its main marketing factor being its anti-aging results. Retinol revives collagen, a key protein in skin that makes it appear youthful and wrinkle-free; however, this raises the question: why are such young children using anti-aging products, if they haven’t begun aging? The answer: social media.
TikTok and Instagram have popularized “get ready with me” videos showing multi-step skincare and makeup routines. Young kids see their favorite influencers make these types of videos, and many follow suit. However, the various products used by influencers, who are most likely older than the child watching, are unnecessary and could even harm a young person’s skin. USA Today’s interview with MD board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jeffy reveals that an 11-year-old patient developed a severe rash around her eyes from using a retinol cream. Jeffy warns against children using irritating products that contain retinol, exfoliating acids, or fragrance. These products irritate and dry out the skin, producing much the opposite effect than is desired.
Similarly, older teens are falling into another skincare trap that might make them look older, not younger—injectables. Many dermatologists agree that it is common for 18 to 20-year-olds to have some form of filler in their face. This practice of receiving small amounts of Botox, dubbed “baby Botox,” has its own adverse effects. With small quantities injected mostly into the lips or face, this procedure can create a mask-like appearance with exaggerated features that make the recipient appear older, rather than younger.
Outside of skincare, Gen Z seems to have other habits that could be aging them faster. For example, 18% of Gen Z vapes regularly, and this can be detrimental to one’s skin. The nicotine in vaping liquids dehydrates the skin and can lead to premature wrinkles, while also leading to chronic skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis. Additionally, our generation’s sedentary lifestyle contributes to Gen Z’s declining health. In a recent study, scientists led by Aladdin Shadyab, Associate Professor of Public Health and Medicine at the University of California San Diego, found that women who are more physically inactive are biologically older. This study focused on the telomeres, the caps on the end of chromosomes that deteriorate with time, to see the biological age of the participants. Women who did not meet thirthy minutes of daily exercise were estimated to be biologically eight years older than women who did.
With all of these factors stacking up against Gen Z—retinol products used too young, failed injectables, vaping and low exercise levels—it seems that it’s time to ditch all the fancy products. Perhaps skincare routines should go back to simply being a gentle cleanser and some sunscreen, with the addition of daily exercise to keep us healthy. With all the oversaturation of social media, I think it’s time to come back to the present and go back to the basics.
