California Bill Seeks to Protect Minors from Harmful Antiaging Products
In a bold move to address the concerning trend of young children purchasing potent antiaging skincare products, Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-San José) has introduced a bill that aims to ban the sale of such beauty items to customers under the age of 18. The surge in popularity among young individuals, dubbed as Sephora Kids, for anti-wrinkle serums, exfoliants, and peels containing potent chemicals has sparked alarm among parents and dermatologists.
The Rising Concern
The bill introduced by Assemblymember Lee on Tuesday specifically targets cosmetic products that contain vitamin A and its derivatives, such as retinoids and retinol. It also includes products with alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), and citric acid. Lee expressed his concern in an interview with The Times, stating, “Children who are 10 years old, 12 years old, shouldn’t have to worry about wrinkles.”
The recent wave of children, some as young as elementary school students, flocking to beauty stores nationwide and showcasing their skincare hauls and elaborate routines on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube has caught the attention of industry experts. This phenomenon among Gen Alpha, born between 2010 and 2024, has presented a challenge to brands and retailers in marketing to this new, impressionable customer base.
Expert Insights and Concerns
Dermatologists, like Dr. Jayden Galamgam from UCLA Health, emphasize the importance of age-appropriate skincare products for children, such as sunscreen, gentle cleansers, and moisturizers. However, they caution against the use of active ingredients in antiaging products, which can cause irritation and harm to young skin. The worry is that the influence of “skinfluencers” is driving children to invest in unnecessary and potentially harmful products, fostering an unhealthy preoccupation with physical appearance.
The bill, labeled as AB 728, represents a second attempt by Lee to regulate the sale of antiaging products to minors after an initial bill failed in May. The updated version expands the age restriction from under 13 to under 18, aiming to provide a stronger safeguard for young consumers. While acknowledging the likelihood of minors finding ways to circumvent the law, Lee stresses the importance of establishing clear market regulations similar to those in place for substances like alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana.
As the bill progresses through the legislative process, with a potential signing into law in October, the conversation surrounding the impact of antiaging products on minors continues to evolve. Industry giants like Sephora have yet to comment on the proposed legislation, but the spotlight on the ethical marketing of skincare to children remains a pressing concern.
In conclusion, the proposed bill to ban the sale of potent antiaging products to minors in California underscores the need for responsible industry practices and consumer protections. By addressing the risks associated with exposing young individuals to harsh chemicals and unnecessary beauty standards, lawmakers and experts aim to safeguard the well-being of the next generation. As the debate unfolds, the focus on educating children about healthy skincare practices and instilling confidence beyond external appearances remains a vital aspect of promoting overall wellness and self-acceptance.