A growing number of Dutch dermatologists are sounding the alarm over an unexpected consequence of social media beauty trends: teenage girls showing up in clinics with damaged skin, infections, and allergic reactions – all triggered by excessive use of skincare products.
In a recent interview with Dutch newspaper AD, dermatologist Göran van Rooijen described how young girls, some still in primary school, arrive with “bags full of products,” convinced that more skincare means better skin. Instead, many are facing the opposite.
Too Much, Too Soon
Encouraged by influencers online, teens are layering multiple products daily, from masks and scrubs to anti-aging creams. These routines, often copied without proper knowledge, are overwhelming sensitive young skin.
“Girls come in with dry, red, or swollen faces; sometimes even bacterial infections like impetigo,” Van Rooijen told AD. The issue, he says, stems from ingredients that are simply too aggressive for developing skin.
Not Made for Kids
Products containing strong preservatives, fragrance, or actives like retinol are common culprits. According to dermatologist Elian Brenninkmeijer, who also spoke to AD, ingredients like retinol, meant to combat signs of aging: are inappropriate for teens. “It makes skin thinner and more vulnerable,” she explained.
Many trending products, especially those ordered online, aren’t even certified for use in Europe. Some contain significantly higher concentrations of active substances than allowed under EU regulations.
Barrier Damage and Infections
Another concern is over-exfoliation. “Scrubbing too often strips away the skin’s natural protective layer,” warned Petra Dikrama, dermatologist at Erasmus MC. Without this barrier, bacteria can enter more easily: leading to infections, irritation, and eczema.
The dermatologists say they’re seeing more cases of so-called “school skin” – teens who scrub and treat their faces so aggressively that their skin becomes inflamed or infected.
A Rise in Allergy Testing
Dermatologist Lia Kunkeler has noticed a sharp rise in children needing allergy tests. “We used to see one or two cases now and then, now it’s a regular occurrence,” she said. In most cases, the issue isn’t a true allergy, but extreme irritation caused by too many products used too often.
Well-Intentioned, Poorly Informed
The root of the problem, experts say, is a mix of social media influence, lack of clear information, and well-meaning but uninformed experimentation. Many parents aren’t fully aware of what’s in the products their children use, or how often they’re applying them.
Kunkeler adds that among the skincare products she sees on her desk, some are surprisingly expensive — showing that the problem isn’t limited to cheap or low-quality items.
Simple is Better
The dermatologists aren’t trying to stop teens from enjoying skincare, but they urge simplicity. One safe go-to? Organic coconut oil. “It’s rare for anyone to be allergic to it,” Dikrama noted. She recommends starting with that or other basic ingredients like avocado or cucumber; especially when skin is still young and self-renewing.
Before applying anything new to the face, they advise testing it first on the inside of the elbow for at least a week. No reaction? Then it’s likely okay.
Permanent Sensitivities
While most skin issues are treatable, allergies can be lifelong. “Once sensitised, a child might need to avoid a specific ingredient forever,” Van Rooijen explained. “That’s a high price to pay for the wrong cream.”
