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Most teens go through a phase of being hyper-focused on looking good; whether it's clothes, bodybuilding, skin-care or makeup. What can seem like an obsession could be a normal part of the process, so when should we start to worry and how should we step up?

When Clare wrote in worried about her daughter's skin-care regime she was hoping to get a teen perspective. Here's what she said.

I would like you to advise on though and maybe your daughters can help? My 13 year old has been heavily influenced in the last year or two by social media posts on skin care. She has now changed from being content with a simple cleanse and moisturise before bed to having a morning and evening skincare ritual lasting more than an hour. She is getting up at 5.30 every morning to start the ritual! The most concerning thing is the use of products and preparations that I would normally associate with more mature ladies ( things I would use!) and these often include hyaluronic acid, retinol, collagen etc. she spends all her pocket money, birthday and Xmas money on these products and is constantly asking for extra jobs to earn more money to support to this expensive obsession. I am hoping it’s just a short lived phase and thinking that I should treat it a bit like ‘bad fashion’ and keep cool and non judgemental about it, rather than expressing my concerns, which would probably make things worse! Do you have any advice?

In this episode I talk at length with my girls about the trend, how her daughter might be feeling, and what Clare can do to support her without shutting down communication and connection.

PRODUCT MENTIONED (NO AFFILIATE OR SPONSORSHIP INVOLVED)

Garnier Vitamin C Daily UV Brightening Fluid Sheer Glow, SPF50+, For all skin types, Cruelty-Free, Vegan, 50ml

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I don't have medical training so please seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping.

My email is teenagersuntangled@gmail.com
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You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

Worries about skin care obsessions? The social media 'Sephora' kid craze from a teen perspective.129

Parenting Teens Untangled - Realistic, science-backed teen & tween parenting advice