"What's your skincare routine?" my friend's 12-year-old daughter asked me. "Skincare?" I asked. "Yes, skincare, and more specifically, I'm asking about your face... what products do you use?" the teenager inquired, rummaging through her bag to show me her bottles of imported creams, "the ones she asks her aunt to send her," my friend explained
Presumptuous? Yes, and I'm fine with that, but it's a pattern of impulsive Lolitas, who from a young age take giant strides in search of outfits, accessories, and beauty products that make them look older, more attractive, and more seductive.
That they care about their appearance in terms of health is commendable, and skin, as we know, requires care, but I'm concerned about whether they actually consult a dermatologist to know what to do or if they are guided by what is published on social media and articles related to celebrity routines without taking into account their age, their skin type, and their true needs.
I investigate and find the answer. It's already a problem and it's growing, to the point that families assume it's normal and don't adequately supervise it. Many specialists who have treated cases of irritation, allergic dermatitis, and aggravated acne have warned against the pursuit of perfect skin in girls and adolescents, mainly without considering that these cosmetic routines can cause skin conditions and self-esteem issues, as they are designed for mature skin, which has suffered more damage over the years.
Adolescence is a period marked by significant physical and emotional changes, and it's common to succumb to anything that, under pressure, makes you think it will make you more beautiful and more accepted. They are then exposed to an immense variety of cleansers, exfoliants, and specific treatments with their potentially inappropriate combinations and an overload of active ingredients on the skin, such as retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, and niacinamide, among others, which require a prescription and medical supervision.
Cuba is no stranger to this phenomenon, as we know that the unthinkable arrives from abroad, and many children and adolescents even do a quick search on Shein to choose what they want to purchase directly or through someone traveling who can bring it to them.
So, the big question arises: is skincare really necessary at that age? The truth is, no. At that age, there's enough hyaluronic acid and collagen in the skin; there's no need to combat wrinkles or remove dark spots. For certain conditions, such as common acne or other skin conditions, it's vital to see a specialist and follow the instructions. Beyond that, it's enough to wash your face with a mild soap, use a moisturizer suitable for normal skin, and apply sunscreen, the latter—by the way—never taken into account as it should be in a tropical country like ours.
Therefore, I once again urge parents and other family members to pay attention to what their sons and daughters find and follow online, and to cultivate a culture of acceptance and diversity in beauty. Instead of seeking perfection through products and fast-paced lifestyles, they learn to value their skin as it is and understand that health is more important than meeting unnecessary aesthetic standards. I continue to believe that true beauty lies in health, authenticity, and self-acceptance. Let's create daily routines to contribute to this.
Photo: taken from the Internet
Taken from Juventud Rebelde
