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Sat, 06 Jun 2026

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 Cosmeticorexia: How girls are falling down a skincare rabbit hole

Fuelled by social media, the market for children's skincare is booming. Experts fear for the long-term impact on girls
Prevalence: The phenomenon is reported to be on the rise, with some psychologists warning that it can lead to long-term psychological impacts, such as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Social media's role: Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are seen as a major contributor to this trend, as they allow young girls to see and engage with beauty content 24/7. Experts argue that these platforms often present unattainable beauty standards, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Parental responsibility: The article also highlights the role parents play in perpetuating this trend. Some children are being encouraged by their parents to become brand ambassadors or influencers, which can lead to a distorted view of beauty and self-worth. Consequences: Experts warn that cosmeticorexia can have serious consequences for young girls' mental health and well-being. They may experience anxiety, shame, and low self-esteem, and may even develop BDD or other eating disorders. Brands' responsibility: The article suggests that skincare brands also share some of the blame for promoting unrealistic beauty standards and targeting young children with their products. Complexity of growing up: However, the article also acknowledges that social media is an integral part of modern life, and that children are learning to navigate it as they grow up. Some experts argue that this trend may be a complex but inevitable aspect of growing up in today's digital world. Solutions: The article proposes several solutions, including: 1. Social media companies taking responsibility for protecting young users from targeted advertising and promoting realistic beauty standards. 2. Skincare brands being more mindful of their target audience and promoting healthy, inclusive beauty standards. 3. Parents being more aware of the potential risks of cosmeticorexia and taking steps to promote positive body image in their children. Related stories: The article also mentions other related topics, including: 1. A BBC investigation into the rise of online scams targeting vulnerable individuals. 2. A story about a family's fundraising efforts for a young girl with a rare disease. 3. A report on an invasive insect species found in America for the first time since 1966. Overall, the article highlights the importance of discussing and addressing the complex issues surrounding cosmeticorexia and its impact on young girls' mental health and well-being.