The young and the beauty conscious

(Photo:www.marieaustralia.com/red-carpet-celebrity-dresses)

She is all of 11. Apple Martin, Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin's first born not only looks like her famous mother but has been following in her footsteps by going to the same facial specialist as her. She has been reportedly getting £140 (approx Rs13,351) facials with Hollywood expert Sonya Dakar. It's said to be specially tailor made for young skin, and other facial treatments for teens offered there include the diamond peel, facial fitness and blue light treatment. However, this news has made one wonder if Apple is too young to be getting regular facials.

Dr Sujata Mehta Ambalal MD Cosmetic Dermatologist and Dermatosurgeon, says there are two aspects of beauty treatments in children — the physical safety and the psychosocial effects. "Any product used on a child's skin should not contain chemicals that are known to be hazardous. Cosmetics may contain carcinogens, hormone mimicking agents, allergens or sensitising agents. Children have a large body surface area compared to weight, so products may be absorbed more in a child than in an adult. Often we do not know long term effects of new ingredients so it's better to stick to time tested, often traditional beauty remedies. Psychologically speaking, early life obsession with appearance may lead to body image issues and narcissism. Facials encompass a rigorous massage with a product on the face. They have immediate subjective effects like relaxation and rejuvenation. There is little data supporting any long term objective benefits to the skin. Do children really need this for relaxation and that too in a beauty parlour where they would be exposed to many more chemicals in the environment? A better alternative would be an occasional facial and body massage by a parent at home," she explains.

USE THE RIGHT PRODUCTS

Depending on the skin type and skin needs, it is not harmful to do treatments at that age feels Dr Apratim Goel, Dermatologist and Laser Surgeon, Cutis Skin Studio. "However, these should be done under supervision and with an expert. Another important thing to stress is the need to educate children about a regular skin care routine and how important it is for them to have good skin when they grow up. They should not depend on treatments alone. We have kids clean-ups at my clinic and we only recommend them once in three months. The products used for adults cannot be used for children. That's why these treatments must be done at a place which has special products for use on children. If done right, facials, massages, masks etc can be beneficial and rather help improve skin as well as confidence for the child. In some cases with certain skin issues, sooner the treatment and skin care is initiated, the better it is," she says, adding, "Pre-puberty, the skin needs daily cleansing, mild exfoliation, sun protection and moisturising. However, post puberty, due to hormonal changes, the oil glands are overactive and so oil control by using skin care pads have to be started as well. In case of acne breakouts, consult a dermatologist for medical help."

AVOID SUCH TREATMENTS

Dr K E Mukadam, Dermatologist and Laser Surgeon, Lasercure says during such a young age, a child's skin is in a developing and growing stage, it's better to avoid any type of interference in the form of different applications, "If a child's skin is normal then one shouldn't try such treatments?. Those who have sensitive and dry skin, could use a moisturising wash and creams containing aloe vera. Children with oily skin should use a special face wash."Read more at:www.marieaustralia.com/sexy-formal-dresses

PLEASE keep all discussions relevant to fashion, textiles, beauty products, or jewelry.

Follow the Fashion Industry Network Rules.

It is always a good time to review fabulous fashion.

 

Hot topics of possible interest:

  Thank you for using the Fashion Industry Network.  Have you helped another member today? Answer questions in the forum. It brings good luck.