Save Face Urgently Calls for Restrictions on Skincare Sales to Under-18s Amid Rising Concerns

Save Face is calling on the government to implement strict restrictions on the sale of skincare products containing potent active ingredients such as retinols and acids to anyone under the age of 18. Alarmingly, children as young as eight are being targeted on social media, with content promoting adult skincare routines and products designed for older skin.

Since 2023, there has been a dramatic rise in children requesting expensive skincare products after viewing videos from influencers on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. These products often feature bright, attractive packaging and playful names that appeal to young audiences. However, many contain powerful ingredients like retinol, alpha and beta hydroxy acids, which are intended for adult skin and can cause severe, irreversible damage—leading to irritation, allergies, and long-term skin issues. Using such products on developing, sensitive skin presents significant risks with no benefit.

Recent reports reveal that children are increasingly asking for products that promote anti-aging, hydration, or skin “fixing,” with some waking early to begin their routines and spending hours layering multiple products each night. This marketing and online influence is placing enormous emotional pressure on impressionable young minds, potentially damaging their self-esteem and skin health.

As Christmas approaches, many parents will receive lists of skincare products for their children, unaware that these items may contain ingredients capable of causing lasting harm. These products are widely available on the high street and online, often without clear warnings about their unsuitability for young skin. Well-meaning parents may unknowingly purchase these products, risking serious health consequences for their children.

Save Face Director Ashton Collins said:

“We have seen an alarming rise in reports from parents that children as young as eight are requesting skincare products they’ve seen online. Many of these products have caused serious issues, including allergic reactions and skin damage. It’s clear we must act now to stop this dangerous trend from growing.”

"The myth that children need to follow adult skincare routines, and the promotion of more advanced treatments like injectables at younger ages, is fuelling a toxic culture. Social media plays a significant role, creating unrealistic beauty standards and putting young people under immense pressure to look a certain way.”

In 2021, Save Face worked closely with MP Laura Trott to introduce legislation banning under-18s from receiving dermal fillers and Botox. Now, more than ever, we recognize the urgent need to build on that work and ensure children are better protected from harmful skincare ingredients. We must also ensure safeguards are in place to prevent harmful marketing tactics and online videos from influencing young minds.

Save Face Accredited Practitioner and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Miss Natasha Berridge said:

“It’s deeply concerning to see children and young teens using anti-ageing skincare influenced by social media and viral marketing. These products often contain high concentrations of active ingredients such as retinol and acids, designed for adult skin, not for young developing skin. Misuse can be detrimental to skin health leading to irritation, hypersensitivity, and long-term barrier damage.”

We also call for greater transparency and education for parents about the risks of these products. Children’s delicate skin is unprepared for ingredients like retinol, which can provoke eczema, allergies, and long-term damage. The suggestive marketing and packaging tactics that prey on vulnerabilities must be addressed to protect their mental and physical wellbeing.

Save Face is calling for urgent action:

• Introduce clear, prominent labels on skincare products stating they are not suitable for under-18s.
• Enforce restrictions on online and retail sales to prevent minors from purchasing these products.
• Hold social media platforms, influencers, and brands accountable for promoting potentially harmful products to children.

Save Face calls on the government and industry leaders to take urgent action now to protect children's skin health and self-esteem before this issue escalates into a crisis.