By William 
In the age of TikTok, beauty advice is everywhere. One minute you’re watching a funny skit, and the next you’re deep into a step-by-step skincare routine promoted by a teenage influencer or a viral skincare enthusiast. While the accessibility of information can be empowering, it also comes with a downside — especially for teenagers just starting to understand their skin.
Dermatologists and skincare experts are raising concerns about how complex, product-heavy routines being promoted on social media platforms like TikTok may be doing more harm than good for teens. In many cases, what works for adults or influencers may actually disrupt the delicate balance of teenage skin.
In this article, we explore why teens should approach these elaborate skincare trends with caution, what the risks are, and what experts actually recommend for healthy skin during adolescence.
There’s no denying that skincare has become a cultural movement, particularly among Gen Z. What used to be a quiet part of personal hygiene is now a trending topic with millions of hashtags like skincare routine, skin goals, and glow up. TikTok videos often feature aesthetically pleasing products, extensive multi-step routines, and glowing skin transformations.
Teenagers are drawn to these videos not just for the beauty tips, but because they offer a sense of community, identity, and self-care. However, the problem arises when these videos mix entertainment with misinformation, and when young audiences try to replicate routines that are not designed for their skin type or age group.
Teenage skin is fundamentally different from adult skin. During puberty, hormone levels change, leading to increased oil production, larger pores, and a higher likelihood of acne. This phase is also when the skin’s protective barrier is still developing and can be easily irritated.
Dr. Melissa K. Levin, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York, emphasizes that teens need a simple and effective routine, not a complicated one.
The more products you use, the higher the chance of irritation, breakouts, and damaging your skin barrier
She notes that many of the products popularized on social media include ingredients like exfoliating acids, retinols, and strong fragrances that are not always safe for younger skin.
Using too many products or layering the wrong ones can have unintended side effects. Here are the key risks associated with following complex TikTok routines without professional guidance.
Teen skin is more reactive. Introducing multiple active ingredients at once — like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and niacinamide — can overwhelm the skin. Redness, itching, peeling, and burning sensations are common signs of irritation.
The skin barrier is a layer that keeps moisture in and harmful bacteria out. Over-exfoliating or using too many harsh products can strip this layer, leaving skin vulnerable to breakouts, dryness, and long-term sensitivity.
Ironically, many teens end up using anti-acne products excessively and worsen their acne. When the skin is stripped of its natural oils, it compensates by producing more, leading to clogged pores and flare-ups.
Many skincare trends promote luxury or niche products that cost a lot but offer little value to teens. These items are often designed for mature skin and don’t serve any real benefit for young users.
TikTok’s filtered, polished content can lead teens to believe that perfect skin is the norm. The pressure to achieve flawless results can contribute to anxiety, low self-esteem, and even compulsive product use.
One of the biggest gaps in TikTok skincare content is the lack of context. Not all skin types are the same, and what works for one person may not work for another. Understanding your skin type is the first step to building an effective routine.
- Oily Skin: Common in teens due to increased sebum production. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic products.
- Dry Skin: Less common in teens but still possible. Gentle cleansers and moisturizers help maintain hydration.
- Combination Skin: A mix of oily and dry areas. Requires a balanced approach with targeted products.
- Sensitive Skin: Easily irritated and reactive. Needs calming, fragrance-free products.
Before following any online advice, it’s crucial to determine which category your skin falls into and choose products accordingly.
Most dermatologists agree that a basic skincare routine is more than enough for teenagers. Here’s a guideline that works for the majority of teen skin types.
Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser once or twice a day. Cleansing removes oil, sweat, and dirt without damaging the skin.
Yes, even oily skin needs moisture. Look for lightweight, oil-free moisturizers that support the skin barrier without clogging pores.
This is non-negotiable. Sun damage leads to premature aging, dark spots, and in extreme cases, skin cancer. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
If acne is a concern, a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide spot treatment can be used on problem areas. But this should be limited and not applied across the whole face.
While not all TikTok advice is harmful, it’s important to be cautious and critical. Some red flags include:
- Promoting more than five products in one routine
- Using words like miracle, instant results, or cure
- Encouraging use of adult-only ingredients like retinol
- Layering exfoliants or mixing acids without explanation
- Dismissing side effects or warning labels
Always cross-reference advice with credible dermatology sources or talk to a healthcare professional before adding something new to your routine.
If a teen is dealing with persistent acne, painful breakouts, or extreme sensitivity, it’s time to see a dermatologist. Online trends cannot replace professional care. A dermatologist can identify skin issues, prescribe appropriate treatment, and help create a plan that’s effective and safe.
Education around skincare should start early — not with TikTok, but in schools and homes. Teens need guidance on how to care for their skin without overcomplicating things or falling into the trap of online fads.
Encouraging open discussions, teaching critical thinking about online content, and promoting healthy self-image can help teens build lifelong habits that support their skin and their confidence.
TikTok has revolutionized how teens learn about beauty, but with that comes the responsibility to think critically and protect their skin. Complex skincare routines might look appealing, but they often overlook the simplicity and gentleness that teenage skin really needs.
Instead of chasing trends, teens should focus on understanding their skin, listening to their body, and building routines that are simple, sustainable, and science-backed. With the right guidance and realistic expectations, they can maintain healthy skin without risking damage from viral skincare experiments.