Skincare Red Flags: TikTok Trends to Avoid
What if your child’s glowing skin routine is actually doing long-term damage?
In the UK, more than 25% of tweens aged 9–12 are already using anti-ageing ingredients like retinol and exfoliating acids—many of them influenced by TikTok. Yet, fewer than half even check the ingredient list before applying.
These routines aren’t dermatologist-approved—they’re algorithm-approved. And they come with a growing list of red flags: irritation, barrier damage, allergic reactions, and even premature ageing from improper use of actives without sun protection.
Why This Matters
This isn’t about teens experimenting with face masks—it’s about children using products designed for mature skin, often layering multiple actives from viral TikTok routines. The problem? Many of these regimens skip SPF, overload the skin barrier, and mimic influencer content instead of dermatologist guidance.
Debunking Skincare Myths from TikTok
1. Myth: Retinoid is a must for clear, glowing skin—even for teens.
Reality: Retinoid is a powerful ingredient used to treat aging and acne—but it’s not safe for developing skin without professional supervision. It can cause peeling, burning, and sun sensitivity.
Safe Alternative: Teens should focus on a gentle cleanser and SPF. If acne appears, use a mild treatment like benzoyl peroxide or consult a GP.
2. Myth: Combining actives like AHA, BHA, and Vitamin C speeds up results.
Reality: More isn’t better. Mixing acids and antioxidants without guidance can lead to chemical burns, redness, and long-term sensitivity.
Safe Alternative: Use only one active at a time, and always patch test. Teens usually don’t need chemical exfoliants unless treating specific issues.
3. Myth: If it tingles or burns, it means it’s working.
Reality: Tingling is often a sign of irritation, not effectiveness. Young users mistake discomfort for results, potentially damaging their skin barrier.
Safe Alternative: Choose fragrance-free, calming products. The goal is to support—not stress—the skin.
4. Myth: You only need sunscreen in summer or when it’s sunny.
Reality: Sun damage happens year-round, even on cloudy days. Actives like AHAs and retinol make skin more sensitive to UV rays.
Safe Alternative: Apply a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen (SPF 30+) every morning. It’s the best anti-aging product out there.
5. Myth: DIY skincare (like lemon juice or toothpaste) is natural and therefore better.
Reality: Natural doesn’t mean safe. Citrus juices can cause burns; toothpaste contains abrasives and alcohol.
Safe Alternative: Stick with dermatologist-approved products. Simple salicylic acid spot treatments are far safer and more effective.
6. Myth: Expensive skincare = better skincare.
Reality: Many luxury products pushed on TikTok include fragrance, essential oils, and actives that are too harsh for young skin.
Safe Alternative: Go for gentle, budget-friendly drugstore brands with clear labelling (fragrance-free, non-comedogenic).
7. Myth: Double cleansing twice daily is essential.
Reality: Over-cleansing strips away essential oils, weakening your skin’s natural defences.
Safe Alternative: Cleanse once at night to remove dirt and SPF. In the morning, rinse with water or use a very mild cleanser if needed.
A Mini-Guide to Vetting Skincare Advice Online
1. Check credentials: Is the source a licensed dermatologist or a brand ambassador/influencer?
2. Consider age relevance: Advice for 30-year-olds won’t apply to tweens.
3. Watch out for trends over evidence: Products promoted for viral appeal may have no scientific backing.
4. Look beyond packaging: Pretty bottles don’t equal safe formulas. Always read ingredient lists.
5. Be wary of buzzwords: "Non-toxic," "clean beauty," and "poreless" are often marketing terms with no regulated meaning.
6. Start slow and patch test: Any new product should be tested on a small area before applying to the whole face.
What Dr Friedmann recommends
Cleanser: Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser once a day
Moisturiser: Only if skin feels dry or tight (fragrance-free)
SPF: Daily broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Treatments: Only introduce actives like salicylic acid under medical guidance
Final Thought
TikTok can be a fun place to explore self-care, but when skincare becomes a source of damage instead of confidence, it's time to press pause. Understanding red flags is the first step to healthier habits—and happier skin.
Let influencers entertain you—not decide your skincare routine.
Need Help with Acne or Skin Concerns?
If you or your child is struggling with acne or reacting to the wrong skincare routine, we’re here to help. Our dermatology team offers trusted, evidence-based care tailored to every age and skin type.
Contact us today to book a consultation and start your journey to healthy, confident skin.
