Social media influence linked to increased cosmetic use in adolescents

Research and educational initiatives are highlighting the impact of social media on adolescent cosmetic use and psychological well-being. A study by Rutgers University, published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, found that high school students who follow beauty influencers or watch tutorials use significantly more personal care products. Specifically, students following beauty influencers reported using 30% more products in a 24-hour period than their peers, while those watching hair and skin tutorials used 40% more. Researchers expressed concern regarding the potential exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in these products.

In response to rising body dissatisfaction and the influence of social media filters, the Italian Society of Aesthetic Medicine (SIME) has launched the ‘Laboratorio di Bellezza’ (Beauty Laboratory) project. Led by surgeon Rosanna Catizzone, this educational initiative aims to reach schools to counter unrealistic beauty standards and promote psychological well-being. The project follows long-standing observations of a link between low self-esteem, social media pressure, and eating disorders among teenagers aged 14 to 18.