With anecdotal evidence suggesting that an increasing number of young teens, motivated by what they see on applications like TikTok, are pursuing more ‘youthful’ skin, a leading chain of Swedish pharmacies is introducing age restrictions on the purchase of anti-aging skincare products.
AHA acid, BHA acid, vitamin A, vitamin C, and enzyme peeling are among the ingredients of ‘advanced skincare’ products that Apotek Hjärtat, a Swedish pharmacy chain with over 380 locations, will no longer sell to consumers under the age of 15 unless they have a related skin problem or parental authorisation.
It coincides with reports of a social media-driven skincare boom among Swedish ‘Sephora kids’ under the age of thirteen. One beauty chain reports that 20–40% of their clientele is presently under the age of 13, the broadcaster SVT was informed.
Experts worry that children’s obsession with ageing may have negative psychological effects in addition to potential physical harm to their young skin.
The European Commission declared last year that it will restrict the amount of retinol found in over-the-counter medications starting in June. This move is intended to reduce the possibility of excessive exposure to vitamin A, which regulators have connected to weakening bones and skin diseases.
‘Using advanced skin care that, for example, aims to reduce wrinkles and get a more even skin tone is not something a child needs. In cases where a child has a skin disease, for example atopic eczema, certain products can also contribute to worsening or reactivating symptoms’, said Annika Svedberg, chief pharmacist at Apotek Hjärtat.
She added, that the age restriction enables them to start a conversation with children and parents about healthy skincare routines, ‘based on needs, not ideals’.
Monika Magnusson, Apotek Hjärtat’s CEO and pharacist, said in a statement: ‘We want to be ahead of the curve, and take greater responsibility for not being involved in pushing unhealthy behaviours and ideals that have grown up among many young people.’
