SAEDNEWS: These days, skincare products packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, retinol, and vitamin C have gained massive popularity—even among teens. But are these active ingredients really safe for young skin?
According to SAEDNEWS, Teenagers don’t need the same products designed for mature skin. Skincare items labeled with terms like “anti-aging,” “wrinkle-reducing,” or “firming” often contain strong active ingredients such as:
Retinol
Vitamin C
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)
Peptides
These ingredients can irritate young, sensitive skin—especially if used incorrectly or without guidance.
Even products labeled with seemingly harmless ingredients like hyaluronic acid may contain other additives such as fragrances, preservatives, or foaming agents. These extras can cause skin or eye irritation, particularly in teens. One reported case in March involved a teenager experiencing blurred vision and eye pain after using a cleansing balm with hyaluronic acid, prompting a major retailer (Kmart) to pull the product from shelves.
In countries like Australia, general cosmetics don’t need official safety approval before hitting the market. Products are usually only investigated after someone reports harm. That’s a risky setup—especially for young people with delicate skin who may be influenced by social media trends or adult skincare routines.
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar molecule found in our skin, joints, eyes, and connective tissue. Its main job is to hold in moisture, keep joints moving smoothly, and help repair tissue.
In medicine, it’s used for arthritis treatments, wound healing, and even eye drops. In skincare, it usually comes in the form of sodium hyaluronate, which helps hydrate the skin.
While it’s generally safe, the problem lies in the formulations marketed to teens—not the ingredient itself.
Most studies on active skincare ingredients are conducted on adults, not teens. That means we still don’t fully understand how teen skin reacts to these formulas. Teen skin is different—it’s still developing, more sensitive, and can respond unpredictably to strong ingredients.
For example:
Retinol may cause intense dryness and peeling.
AHAs and BHAs can sometimes worsen acne instead of improving it.
When it comes to teen skincare, less is more. Teens only need three basic products:
A gentle cleanser (fragrance-free and non-drying)
A lightweight, unscented moisturizer
A sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
That’s it! No need for fancy serums or trendy treatments. Keep it simple and stick to products labeled for sensitive skin. For the best results, teens should consult a dermatologist or pharmacist when choosing products suited to their skin type.
While hyaluronic acid on its own isn’t dangerous, the overall formulation of skincare products can be. Given how sensitive teen skin is—and the lack of strict safety regulations in cosmetics—it’s best to steer clear of complex products designed for adults.
Overdoing skincare at a young age can backfire. Instead, build a simple, safe, and consistent routine that supports healthy skin through the teen years and beyond.
Final Tip: Just because something is trending doesn’t mean it’s right for your skin. Listen to your body, do your research, and when in doubt—ask a professional.
