In an article published in NPR, experts detailed that complicated skin-care routines have been rising in popularity among U.S. youths. The experts explained that individuals between the ages of 13 years and their early 20s more frequently celebrate their birthdays with gifts from Sephora, more regularly trade samples and videos of skin-care routines, and are more aware of the chemical ingredients in cosmetics than previous generations. The experts attributed the new trends and increased interest in beauty-related spending to social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube—where young influencers post their self-care practices and product reviews, exposing followers and viewers to skin-care content at younger ages. As a result, teenage consumers spent about 33% and 19% more on cosmetics and skin care, respectively, in 2023 compared with 2022. In response, cosmetics brands have altered their packaging to include neon colors, aesthetic fonts, and appealing scents in an effort to attract the attention of younger customers. However, parents have expressed concern over helping their children balance their interest in these routines and their use of products that are expensive, not suitable for children, or potentially damaging—for instance, one mother revealed her struggle to dissuade her 11-year-old daughter from using antiwrinkle cream. Although the experts advised parents to watch for feelings of self-consciousness or self-doubt, many youths have reported that taking an interest in skin-care routines has helped motivate them to engage in healthy hygiene habits, feel more organized, and relieve anxiety and depression.