Social Media and Children

Social media has transformed nearly every aspect of modern childhood, from how children communicate to how they see themselves — and increasingly, how they think about their skin. As a paediatric dermatologist, I have witnessed a significant shift in attitudes and habits driven by what young audiences see online, often a drive for obtaining the ‘perfect’ skin. 

Today’s children are exposed to beauty and skincare content earlier than any previous generation. Short-form videos, influencer routines, and short-lived trends often feature multi-step regimens filled with products designed for adult skin concerns. Serums, exfoliating acids, anti-aging creams, and complex routines are presented not just as normal and as aspirational. For many children, skincare is no longer simply about staying clean and comfortable — it has become linked to appearance, trends, and social identity.

This shift can create confusion and anxiety about what young skin actually needs. Children’s skin is naturally healthy, resilient, and still developing. Yet social media can unintentionally promote the idea that skin requires constant improvement or correction. When kids see layering of multiple products, they may assume that more products equal better skin. In reality, overcomplicated routines can overwhelm delicate skin, disrupting its natural balance and sometimes causing irritation.

In clinic, I have also seen social media accelerate what used to be a gradual learning process. In the past, skincare routines typically evolved during adolescence in response to specific concerns like dryness or acne. Now, children as young as primary school age are asking me about products they have seen online, often without understanding their purpose. This early exposure can shift skincare from a simple health habit into a performance-driven activity.

However, social media is not entirely negative in its influence. It has also helped normalise conversations about self-care, personal hygiene and crucially, sun protection. Many children now feel more comfortable talking about skin health, asking questions, and learning basic habits earlier. Educational content from responsible voices can teach children about gentle cleansing, the importance of moisturising, and protecting skin from environmental stressors.

The challenge lies in helping children distinguish between age-appropriate care and adult-oriented beauty trends. This is where parents, educators, and responsible brands play a crucial role. Children need guidance to understand that skincare at their age should be simple, supportive, and focused on comfort rather than transformation.

Bare La Terre’s mission is to provide a healthy counterbalance to the noise of social media. We believe children deserve products designed specifically for their needs: gentle cleansers that do not strip natural oils, basic moisturisers that support the skin barrier, and formulas free from unnecessary additives or harsh actives. Just as importantly, we aim to promote a message that skincare for kids should be about wellbeing, not unrealistic (and often filtered) perfection.

Ultimately, social media is reshaping children’s skincare habits by making them more aware, more curious, and sometimes more pressured. Our role is not to resist this change, but to guide it in a positive direction — helping children build simple, healthy routines rooted in care, confidence, and respect for their naturally healthy skin.

Dr Mariana Noy