Videos about skin care are extremely popular on TikTok. Influencers show off shelves filled with cleansers, serums, and creams. But new research from Northwestern Medicine in Chicago suggests many of these viral beauty routines could actually be harmful—especially for preteens.
Scientists studied 100 skin care videos from TikTok. They found that most routines included at least six unique products, often containing fragrances or harsh chemicals. These ingredients can irritate the skin of young people and even make it more sensitive to sunlight. Only a quarter of the videos included sunscreen—the best way to protect your skin from the sun if you’re going to be outside.
Experts warn that many of these skin care products are designed for adults, not kids. “More is not better,” says Sarah Rigali, a medical student who worked on the study. “The best way to care for skin as a preteen is to use a gentle cleanser, moisturize, and apply sunscreen.”