May 21, 2024
How young is “too young”, to use retinol? Interview w/ Dr. Solomiya Grushchak, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Particularly in the last couple years we have seen content creators on the mobile app TikTok inspire a number of cultural trends among all ages everywhere. Because of advancements in dermatology and the reach social media has, the beauty & aesthetic industry has exponentially grown. Beauty influencers can be attributed to this growth because they’ve built their followings reviewing everything from skincare products, to makeup, to the latest aesthetic treatments [ which then can become trendy ]. Many dermatologists and estheticians have also created followings on social media by reacting to product or aesthetic treatment reviews to state if what the original creator does is safe and effective, or not.
Now, we are seeing children be influenced by this type of content to want whichever trendy product their favorite creator enjoys. Unfortunately, not all viral skincare is suitable for children or pre-teens. The office of Assemblymember Alex Lee states, “Young children exposed to this content are driven to buy trendy products, including anti-aging skincare, that are targeted to adult skin concerns, without receiving proper information about the effects or science behind the skincare.” No matter your age, it is important to cleanse & protect your skin with sunscreen. But how young is too young to be using anti-aging skincare?
As people have studied dermatology and the importance of sunscreen, it has become cultural to incorporate a skincare regimen into their daily lives for healthy, clear skin. Traditionally the skincare industry created their products for adults to not only maintain & protect overall skin clarity, but to combat signs of aging, texture or discoloration. In recent years due to social media’s influence, the latest trend is the goal to have glowing glass skin. Ingredients in trending skincare which influencers claim to give glass skin can include many types of Vitamin A derivatives (AHA/BHA), Vitamin C, or Retinol. The ingredients mentioned can be harsh on sensitive skin - even for an adult. In most cases, a pre-teen using a product with one of these ingredients would be far too aggressive.
Recent reports have detailed individuals under the age of 13 showing adverse effects to improperly using skincare with harsh ingredients suitable for adult skin. Media outlets such as ABC & BeautyMatter published news of a proposed bill, California AB 2491, authored by Assemblymember Alex Lee of San Jose. The bill, AB 2491, would effectively ban the sale of products that contain vitamin A or its derivatives, including retinol and retinoids, or an alpha hydroxy acid, including glycolic acid, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), or citric acid to be sold to anyone under the age of 13.
Dr. Solomiya Grushchak, our Board-Certified Dermatologist & Fellowship-Trained Mohs Micrographic & Cosmetic & Laser Surgeon at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology shares her insight.
“Having an age restriction on topical vitamin A or AHA/BHA for young patients is a sensible approach to enhancing consumer safety and ensuring proper product use. These ingredients can cause significant irritation and sensitivity, especially in younger individuals with sensitive and delicate skin. Additionally, pre-teens often don’t need potent treatments as their skin naturally exfoliates and doesn’t show signs of aging. Age restrictions would ensure users are better informed and thus prevent misuse or overuse, and fostering responsible retail practices that prioritize long-term skin health.”
Since, on May 16th the bill was denied. However, this effort does raise awareness that being a conscious consumer of skincare is important. Just because a certain product may work for one person, it may not work for you. [ & that’s okay!] Everyone’s skin is different. Which his why consulting with an esthetician or dermatologist is important when choosing the right products.
In conclusion, if you are wanting clear and healthy skin, or need new strategies to combat acne. You should first, consult with a Board-Certified Dermatologist or a Licensed Esthetician to receive a skincare plan that’s right for your skin type! When it comes to choosing a regimen, it’s important to learn which products should be included, and the proper use for these products. Improper use of any product can result in adverse effects and is why it’s important to make sure you are properly educated. If you’re looking for the right recommendations from the experts - Come to Chicago Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology to see one our our experienced providers, and shop at Chicago Skin Science afterward!
Chicago Skin Science is located within our practice and sells our products online as well. We offer domestic shipping & same day delivery within 10 miles. All products available ChicagoSkinScience.com are selected by our Board Certified Dermatologists to guarantee you’re only getting the best.
Chicago Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology
"Where our goal is to help you feel great in your own skin."
Written by: Corey Lantz
