CLAY COUNTY—As the body’s largest organ, skin is a vital part of who someone is. As people age, it can sometimes hold the answers to their life stories. 

Wrinkles, thinning and dryness are all signs of healthy aging. Although it’s a natural process, developments have made "aging backward" real for those who want to.

According to Market.US, the global market for anti-aging products was estimated to be $47.4 billion in 2023 due to rising consumer demand.

Hyaluronic acid, retinol, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, collagen and peptides are the ingredients in many anti-aging creams, oils and serums and are the secrets to looking younger.

However, recent social media trends suggest that children may be getting their hands on these products and the potential consequences that come with it.

Licensed holistic esthetician Joshalynn Doty said there are many dangers when bringing products near a child’s face.

Doty said that since children's skin is about 30% thinner than an adult's, anything on their faces absorbs much faster.

According to First Derm, strong skin-enhancing products, such as retinol, are more likely to cause chemical burns and irritation. Products containing sulfates can cause dryness, and parabens can cause imbalance.

“Their skin is not as developed,” Doty said.

She said that skincare routines aren’t really necessary for children until they are around 13 to 14 years old, as, at this point, they are more susceptible to experiencing hormonal acne.

But regardless of their current skin condition, the trend of having a ‘fresh face’ is gaining popularity among youth. 

So, why do teenagers and young children want to look even younger?

Doty said this could all begin with the implications of wearing makeup at a young age. Beauty standards in today’s society draw children to wear more face-altering products.

“As fun as it can be, it’s just not healthy for that child,” Doty said. “Now, teenagers are into the trends, and they want to make sure that they look pretty for school…and it’s great. But, they also need to know that there are other alternatives.”

As a result, Doty said too much makeup could clog their pores, creating acne from over-dryness or over-oily skin. Hence, they are guided to seek a resolution using these skincare products. 

Doty said that it’s something she has seen constantly. And she blames the rise of influencer culture. 

Popular influencers rule the social media sphere. These content creators use their lifestyle and experience to sway how other users see the world, whether using certain products or partaking in certain routines. 

Popular adult-based skin care products, such as Drunk Elephant, are taking center stage. Doty said that with so many young children on social media, it’s very easy for them to constantly encounter this type of mature content.

“A lot of these influencers, I don’t think they’re trying to impact children,” Doty said. “I think they’re trying to go for that older audience, but they’re taking it from the children.”

Doty said this causes young, easily influenced children to follow suit.

“They think it’s cool because that influencer has 2 million plus followers. Whatever the case might be,” Doty said. 

How do we stop the dangerous effects?

Doty said it’s important for parents to pay attention to what their child is watching online and purchasing. She also said to double-check the labels. If you can’t pronounce it, don’t buy it. It’s more than likely not for your child’s skin.

Additionally, Doty said that children who are into skincare should consider other alternatives. As the owner of Star Seed Holistic Spa in Orange Park, Doty specializes in treating clients with appropriate skin care regimens. 

For the younger ones, Doty suggests using a simple face mask, gentle cleansers containing oatmeal and chamomile or even coconut oil soap.

“You can do certain things for children younger than 12. That’s very simple,” Doty said. 

However, Doty said the number one thing is ensuring children know it's okay to be who they are. 

“These kids are going to these platforms, these influencers, to make them feel better,” Doty said. “And, it shouldn’t be like that at all. They should love [themselves].”