As actress Shay Mitchell faces backlash for creating a skincare line aimed at children as young as three, Hannah Britt reveals what young skin actually needs
Pretty Little Liars star Shay Mitchell was slammed by pretty much the entire beauty industry this week when the 38-year-old unveiled her new skincare line…for children.
Yes, aimed at kids as young as three, and with a selection of hydrogel sheet masks on offer, the actress was accused of projecting beauty standards onto kids.
And I couldn’t agree more. No child needs skincare. Their skin is perfect as it is, and unless you’re applying suncream or an antidote for eczema, the best thing you can possibly do for it is to leave it well alone.
What’s more, offering beauty products – which by nature have an aim of ‘bettering’ the skin – presents the idea that a child might need some sort of improvement, which is entirely preposterous.
Squishmallows, yes. Skincare, absolutely no.
Teenagers, however, can with caution use some gentle skincare, or begin playing with some age-appropriate make-up. And with Christmas looming ever closer, you may just find that hard-to-buy-for teen or tween in your life has begun asking to find a beauty gift under the tree…
But which brands are “young person approved” and will win you brownie points? I’m here to help.
Sol de Janeiro
Its appealing and trendy scents, particularly the popular “dessert-like” body creams and body mists, are fun and affordable. The brand’s strong presence on social-media platforms like TikTok has also made it a viral sensation, contributing to its desirability as a status symbol for young people.
Top product: Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, £21
Bubble
Bright, appealing packaging, an affordable price point, and effective formulas that address common teen concerns like acne and oily skin ensure its appeal.
Also key is the brand’s strong social-media presence, focus on inclusivity, and simple, jargon-free marketing that makes it easy for new skincare users.
Top product: Bubble Slam Dunk Hydrating Moisturiser, £16
Charlotte Tilbury
With high-quality and desirable products, and the brand’s marketing focus on “glowy” looks, the brand goes viral frequently on social media. Products are seen as luxurious and of a high status.
Top product: Charlotte Tilbury Magic Energy, from £20 for 10ml
Byoma
Bright, playful packaging, its focus on building a healthy skin barrier, and its effective, gentle and affordable formulas, appeal to young people. The brand’s emphasis on science-backed ingredients like ceramides makes it feel trustworthy too, while its visually appealing products make it fun to use and display.
Top product: Byoma Hydrating Milky Toner, £12
Spots & Stripes
Products are formulated specifically for teen and tween skin and hair needs and presented with fun, age-appropriate packaging.
There’s an emphasis on being earth-friendly and natural and the brand’s appeal is enhanced by its ability to normalise healthy skincare routines for both boys and girls, creating products that are both effective and enjoyable.
Top product: Spots & Stripes Gentle Cleansing Lotion, £14
Sundae
Sundae places its emphasis on fun, with packaging in bright Instagrammable colours. Prices are affordable and there are plenty of delicious pudding-like scents to play with. Its whipped shower foam looks just like whipped cream.
Top product: Sundae Always Late Body Mist, £15
Rare
Teens love Rare Beauty because of its connection to its founder, singer Selena Gomez as well as the brand’s emphasis on mental health and authenticity, high-quality products, and viral moments on social-media platforms.
The brand’s inclusive marketing, extensive shade ranges, and “good for you” formulas with skincare benefits also contribute to its popularity.
Top product: Rare Beauty Mini Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, £15
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