New Orleans dermatologist offers advice to tweens interested in skincare

Skincare companies are attracting younger customers thanks in part to TikTok and other social media sites.The latest group to jump on the bandwagon appears to be tweens, which are children eight to 12 years old.In St. Charles Parish, WDSU met a family with three daughters all under the age of 12.Jamie McCloud said her oldest daughters, 11 and 9, have been interested in masks, moisturizers and serums for some time. “I think the skincare fad right now has really brought some good topics of conversation into our household,” said McCloud. “(My oldest) will even help me learn about these skincare products so now (it’s) benefiting me to have daughters that are into them.”Juliana McCloud uses several skincare products, telling us she first learned about them on social media and from friends.”It makes your skin look very hydrated,” said Juliana. “It’s very fun to do with my friends, and it helps me and my mom bond more and my sisters.” Dr. Leah Jacob, a professor of dermatology at Tulane University, said it is okay for kids to experiment with skincare but there are some important tips to keep in mind. She told WDSU the number one product children should use on a daily basis is sunscreen. Jacob added that if a child wants to try a serum, make sure it only has hyaluronic acid and not retinol. “Some of these serums and products have retinol in them or hydroxy acids, which can be very irritating to young skin,” said Jacob. She said parents should contact a dermatologist if they have specific questions, especially if a child suffers from acne or eczema. Jacob recommended noncomedogenic products in those instances, which do not clog pores.”That’s kind of a buzzword you want to look for,” said Jacob.Jamie McCloud told WDSU that she is okay with her daughter trying different skincare products because they boost her self confidence. A sentiment Juliana shared.”It makes me feel better about myself,” said Juliana.