Dermatologist weighs in on skincare trends for pre-teens

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Social media trends, there are popular dances, challenges, and even diets. But the latest fad we want to warn you about is skincare. 

While it’s great to take care of your skin with the help of a series of products, some of these popular brands’ biggest buyers are kids. They’re as young as 11 to 13. 

“There’s a lot of great products out there. But it is, for the tween and teen population, they’re just not really the best bet for them,” Novant Health Dermatologist Jennifer Lopez said. 

Jennifer Lopez is a Novant Health Dermatologist. She said everyone should aim to care for their skin. But she wanted to issue a reminder that some of these trending skincare products are created for people in their thirties and older.  

“The young girls, the tweens and the teens, there are side effects that they can have with using a lot of these more irritating products,” Lopez said. 

Lopez said items that work to “anti-age” or contain retinol, are better suited for adults.  

She said sunscreen, a light moisturizer, and a gentle cleanser are better alternatives for the younger crowd. Lopez said for teens struggling with acne, salicylic acid is a safe ingredient in the right doses. 

“So, it’s just about finding the right one that works for them. But, really just making sure that that skin barrier is protected and nurtured, is what’s gonna keep your skin healthy and glowing,” Lopez said. 

Lopez said parents need to be aware of what products are best suited for their kids. 

I spoke with a parent who shared the one thing she wishes she would’ve done differently at a younger age when it comes to taking care of her skin.  

“You have to use sunscreen, especially when you live in a place like this where it’s sunny most of the time,” Darlene Pollick, a Leland resident said. “It’s very important to believe me, when you’re young, take care of your skin because when you get older, you’ll regret it if you don’t.” 

Lopez recommended consulting your dermatologist before beginning a new skincare routine. 

She said for more serious circumstances, you may be prescribed a product versus an over-the-counter remedy.