Recently, pediatric skincare has shifted dramatically from involving bubble baths and wet wipes to including high-quality products typically marketed to adults. The children’s skincare market has seen a rapid rise in “cosmeceuticals,” a blend of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, that are often marketed directly to children. According to Dr. Amreen Sitabkhan of U.S. Dermatology Partners in Carrollton and North Dallas, “From serums promising to shrink pores to anti-aging creams aimed at preteens, the line between adult and pediatric skincare is increasingly blurred. Dermatologists and pediatricians are growing concerned. Not only is there limited evidence supporting the safety or necessity of these products for children, but they also introduce complex ethical questions about how much autonomy a child has in choosing skincare products. Parents aren’t always equipped to navigate the challenges that result from these marketing trends. Not to mention what impact all of this has on a child’s developing self-image.”
The Growing Trend of Cosmeceuticals in Pediatric Care
Dr. Sitabkhan says, “While cosmeceuticals targeting kids is a growing trend, it’s also a growing concern and ethical debate among dermatologists and pediatricians. For parents, understanding why it’s concerning for kids to be using these products is essential.”
The Concern
The growing number of skincare brands and social media influencers targeting children and preteens raises numerous concerns, including:
- Lack of regulatory oversight – many so-called cosmeceuticals are not subject to the same rigorous testing as prescription medications or products recommended for children. This becomes especially problematic since children’s skin is more sensitive and permeable. Additionally, products approved for adult skin aren’t always safe for kids.
- Inappropriate use – products meant for adult skin, like retinoids, peptides, or exfoliating acids, may disrupt a child’s skin barrier and cause irritation or concerns with skin health and appearance.
- Normalization of cosmetic intervention – the push for complicated skincare regimens at an early age may encourage children to view typical skin changes (like oiliness or mild breakouts) as problems needing advanced correction.
The Ethical Debate
The ethical debate surrounding children’s skincare focuses on the fact that kids aren’t able to make informed medical decisions. According to Dr. Sitabkhan, “The influence of social media and unrealistic beauty standards negatively impacts young children’s self-worth. Research indicates that up to 75% of children aged 9-12 experience body dissatisfaction. This makes it even more essential to take a careful approach to children’s skincare routines, considering both their emotional wellbeing and the potential impact of societal expectations on their self-image.”
The Ethical Considerations of Pediatric Cosmeceuticals
Skincare may seem harmless, but when it comes to pediatric patients, it’s important for parents to provide appropriate guidance and support. That starts with parents considering the serious ethical considerations related to cosmeceuticals and other advanced skincare products for kids including:
Children and Medical Decision-Making
Children, especially preadolescents, do not possess the maturity to make informed decisions about their health. Elective cosmetic treatments, even as seemingly simple as using a serum, require a level of understanding about risk, benefit, and long-term implications that many young patients lack. Dr. Sitabkhan says, “As a dermatologist, I stress the importance of shared decision-making between parents and clinicians. Children should be included in discussions since this fosters understanding, but parents must ultimately guide decisions based on evidence, safety, and necessity.”
The Influence of Social Media
Social media platforms are powerful tools for beauty influencers, and increasingly, a marketing channel for skincare brands. Children are exposed to curated images, beauty routines, and product endorsements that give a false sense of what they really need to include in their skincare routines. These platforms perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards and plant the seed of body dissatisfaction. This can translate into a desire for unnecessary skincare routines or even cosmetic interventions.
Avoiding the Medicalization of Normal Skin
Not all skin variation is pathological. Mild acne, dry patches, or changes during puberty are a normal part of growing up. Labeling these changes as problems, and offering cosmeceutical “solutions,” risks medicalizing what is a part of typical development. According to Dr. Sitabkhan, “Healthcare providers must not pathologize or stigmatize common skin conditions, especially during vulnerable developmental stages. Instead, they should educate families on what’s normal, what’s treatable with a consistent skincare routine, and what requires professional intervention.”
Financial Considerations
Cost is another important ethical consideration. Many cosmeceutical products come with a high price tag. For many families, this creates unnecessary financial pressure, especially if the benefits of these products are marginal or purely aesthetic. It’s important to choose products that are necessary and avoid any unnecessary costs for products that aren’t valuable to support your child’s skin health.
Pediatric Skincare: What’s Actually Needed vs. What to Avoid
In light of these concerns, what does a healthy pediatric skincare routine actually look like? Below, Dr. Sitabkhan outlines an effective daily skincare routine and reviews some of the skincare ingredients to steer clear of for kids and preteens.
Safe & Necessary Pediatric Skincare
- Gentle cleansers – children’s skin doesn’t require harsh soaps. A mild, fragrance-free cleanser is all your child needs for removing dirt and sweat from their daily activities.
- Moisturizers – hydration is important for people at all ages, and this is especially true for kids and adults with eczema-prone or dry skin. Look for moisturizers that are free of fragrances and dyes and opt for creams over lotions for increased barrier protection.
- Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen – sun protection is one of the most important parts of pediatric skincare. A child’s skin is more susceptible to sun damage, and sunburns early in life. Experiencing five or more blistering sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 increases melanoma risk by 80% and nonmelanoma skin cancer risk by 68%.
- Treatment for specific conditions – chronic skin health concerns like eczema, allergic rashes, or bacterial infections require targeted treatment with dermatologist-approved products. These are situations where professional advice, not TikTok trends, should guide the regimen.
What to Avoid in Pediatric Skincare
- Anti-aging products – retinols, peptides, and collagen-boosting ingredients have no place in a child’s skincare routine. They can cause irritation and are unnecessary for naturally youthful, elastic skin.
- Exfoliating acids (AHAs, BHAs, salicylic acid) – while these ingredients are common in acne, aging, and hyperpigmentation treatments for adults, they’re often too harsh for pediatric use unless specifically recommended or prescribed by a dermatologist.
- Fragrances and essential oils – these can irritate skin, especially for children with sensitive skin or eczema. Always choose fragrance-free formulations when possible.
- Parabens and hormone-disrupting chemicals – some preservatives and synthetic additives interfere with hormonal development. While the science is evolving, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
The Importance of Sun Protection in Kids
Sun protection is a foundational element of pediatric skincare, and it’s one area where parents make a lifelong impact on their child’s health.
Why It Matters
Sunburns during childhood are painful, but they can also lead to DNA damage in skin cells, increasing risk of skin cancers later in life. The younger the child, the more susceptible they are to this damage.
Best Practices
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays
- Find products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
- Apply sunscreen 15–30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
- Choose mineral-based sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) that are better for sensitive skin compared with chemical sunscreens.
Recommended Pediatric Sunscreens
- EltaMD UV Clear – excellent for sensitive skin types.
- Blue Lizard Baby Sunscreen – mineral-based, water-resistant, and gentle.
Common Pediatric Skin Conditions & When to See a Dermatologist
Even children with otherwise healthy skin may experience dermatologic issues that warrant medical attention. Knowing when to contact a dermatologist can prevent complications and improve outcomes. Dermatologists offer essential support for kids with chronic skin conditions as well as those experiencing skin health concerns that aren’t easily addressed at home.
Common Pediatric Skin Concerns
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis) – often begins in infancy or early childhood. Symptoms include dry, red, and itchy patches of skin, especially in the creases of elbows and knees. Treatment includes gentle skincare, moisturizer, and sometimes prescription topical or oral medications.
- Rashes and allergic reactions – children’s skin often reacts to soaps, foods, and rough clothing materials. Seek medical advice for persistent or spreading rashes, especially those accompanied by fever or discomfort.
- Preteen acne – hormonal changes may lead to acne breakouts as early as age 9 or 10, but it’s important to avoid adult-strength treatments unless guided by a dermatologist. Instead, opt for age-appropriate cleansers and spot treatments.
When to See a Dermatologist
Dermatologists are equipped not only to diagnose and treat pediatric skin conditions, but they also have the expertise to help parents and young people develop an effective daily skincare routine. You may want to schedule a dermatology visit for you child if they experience:
- Persistent or worsening eczema.
- Recurrent or unexplained rashes.
- Acne that causes emotional distress or physical scarring.
- Concerns about pigmentation, moles, or atypical lesions.
- Questions about the safety of skincare products for kids.
Conclusion: The Need for Evidence-Based Pediatric Skincare
According to Dr. Sitabkhan, “In a world increasingly shaped by social media, influencer culture, and beauty marketing, parents are right to be cautious about introducing complex skincare products for their children. Skincare can and should be simple, supportive, and safe. There is no need for complicated routines or cosmetic enhancements. Only a consistent skincare regimen based on age-appropriate needs is required. As a dermatologist, I play a key role in helping families navigate these decisions, offering clarity amidst the noise of trends and product overload. Ethical pediatric care begins with honoring the unique developmental needs of children and protecting them from false advertising claims and products that aren’t necessary for them.”
Schedule a Pediatric Dermatology Visit
If you’re unsure about your child’s skincare needs or concerned about a specific condition, don’t guess. Get guidance from a professional. A board-certified dermatologist provides tailored, evidence-based advice and ensures your child’s skin stays healthy for life. To get started at U.S. Dermatology Partners, simply take a few moments to complete our online scheduling request.
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