Wrong beauty products from social media can damage your skin, here's what young girls should do

Young girls have more sensitive and developing skin compared to older women. (Image: Canva)

With beauty standards set by social media and ads, it’s tempting for young girls to try products designed for older women. But using these products can be more harmful than helpful. Here’s why young skin needs different care and what to use instead.

Skin sensitivity

Young girls have more sensitive and developing skin compared to older women. Beauty products meant for older women often contain strong ingredients like retinoids and acids that target wrinkles and age spots. These can cause irritation, dryness, and even long-term damage when used on younger skin.

Hormonal disruption

Anti-ageing products often contain chemicals such as parabens and phthalates, which can disrupt hormones. For young girls, whose bodies are already undergoing hormonal changes, exposure to these chemicals can lead to issues like early puberty or other reproductive health problems. Opting for products with fewer synthetic chemicals helps maintain hormonal harmony.

Long-term damage

Using products meant for mature skin can actually lead to premature ageing in young girls. Overusing strong exfoliants or heavy creams can strip away natural oils and clog pores, resulting in breakouts and damaged skin barriers. Instead of fighting signs of ageing, young girls should focus on maintaining healthy, balanced skin with gentle products.

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Unrealistic beauty standards

Young girls who use anti-ageing products may develop a distorted self-image, feeling pressured to meet unrealistic beauty standards. This can lead to low self-esteem and an unhealthy obsession with appearance. Building confidence with healthy skin care practices sets a solid foundation for future self-esteem.

What should young girls use?

Instead of using products meant for older women, young girls should stick to a gentle skincare routine:

Gentle cleansers: Use mild, sulphate-free cleansers.

Light moisturisers: Choose non-comedogenic moisturisers that won’t clog pores.

Sun protection: Always use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

Avoid harsh ingredients: Stay away from strong anti-ageing ingredients unless recommended by a dermatologist.