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Do you think anti-aging skincare should be banned for children?

Abby Robbins joins Nuala McGovern to discuss the impact of this trend.

Dermatologists say a rise in children using adult skincare is dangerous, as some ingredients are potentially harmful to young skin.

Last week, a chain of pharmacies in Sweden banned the sale of anti-aging products to customers under 15.

Abby Robbins, whose 11-year-old daughter became interested in skincare products after she heard about them in the playground, joined Nuala McGovern on ´óÏó´«Ã½ Radio 4's Woman's Hour to discuss the impact of this trend.

She said that a range of products, including those containing hyaluronic acid, were recommended to her daughter, despite her age.

Dr Tess McPherson, from the British Association of Dermatologists told us: ‘Most of the ingredients banned by the Swedish pharmacy have some evidence of anti-aging. However, they are not needed or helpful for younger skin and can cause irritation, particularly in eczema prone skin.

‘As well as AHA acid, BHA acid, vitamin A, vitamin C and enzyme peeling, parents should look out for retinoids, which may be advisable for acne if suggested by a healthcare professional, but are not necessary unless you have skincare condition.’

You can listen to the full interview on ´óÏó´«Ã½ Sounds– it’s the Woman’s Hour episode from 26 March.

Release date:

Duration:

2 minutes