The impact of cosmetics on children, ages 7-12, can be grand including physical and mental symptoms.
Skin Irritation and Aging:
Most cosmetics contain fragrances, chemicals, and preservatives which can heavily affect youthful skin. These ingredients can result in allergic reactions or rashes and possibly acne. Another risk of makeup on young skin is clogged pores. Clogged pores can speed up aging if the cosmetic is not taken off properly. Children's skin elasticity in general can also be lost over time.
Social Influence:
By using cosmetics at an early age, it exposes children to follow the pressure that comes with online beauty expectations. Influencers and social media can promote unattainable ideals that can affect the mental well being of young children. The pressure to have and wear makeup can lead children to have self-esteem issues along with a negative mindset relating to their natural appearance. This can also cause children to feel heavily reliant to the use of cosmetics and may feel dependent to external validation from peers.
Hormonal Disruption:
Some beauty products also contain ingredients that can affect children's hormones. These could include parabens, phthalates, and perfluorochemicals which are endocrine disrupters. These toxins can also result in neurodevelopment and skin issues even when present in small concentrations. These chemicals can lead to early or delayed puberty, reproductive issues, and trouble with hormone regulation.
Safe Cosmetic Use:
When introducing cosmetics to young individuals use safe natural products that will protect their youthful skin, teach proper makeup removal to reduce the risk of premature skin aging, and promote awareness about social influence and pressure.
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Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board