Teens are hopping on skincare trends they see on TikTok, but some dermatologists are expressing concerns. The popular “glass skin” trend involves a complex routine with expensive products to achieve a dewy and flawless complexion. However, dermatologists like Carol Cheng warn that young individuals attempting this trend may experience adverse effects such as irritated, red, peeling, flaking, or burning skin.
Dr. Cheng, a pediatric dermatologist at the University of California, Los Angeles, has treated patients as young as eight or nine who have developed rashes or negative reactions to these skincare products. She explains that the skin of pre-teens is thinner and more sensitive to active ingredients compared to adult skin, making harsh products potentially damaging to their skin barrier.
To address this issue, dermatologist Elizabeth Houshmand from Dallas suggests that teens and tweens should stick to a simple skincare routine consisting of a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. For teenagers dealing with acne, Houshmand recommends over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide and advises consulting a pediatrician or dermatologist for proper guidance.
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Today’s episode of Short Wave was expertly produced by Rachel Carlson and Mallory Yu, with editing done by Rebecca Ramirez, Tinbete Ermyas, and Viet Le. The facts were verified by Rachel, Regina Barber, and Emily Kwong, while Tiffany Vera Castro served as the audio engineer.
