Hair Health January 3, 2026 By: MedExpo Team

The Dark Side of Social Media Beauty Trends: A Threat to Young Girls' Health

A recent study has revealed that social media beauty trends on TikTok are having a negative impact on young girls' skin health. The trend is leading to an increase in skin-related problems, including burns and scarring.

The Dark Side of Social Media Beauty Trends: A Threat to Young Girls' Health

Research conducted by Northwestern University has shed light on the unintended consequences of popular TikTok skin trends among young girls. These trends often promote the use of extreme heat treatments, such as facial steaming with boiling water or hot compresses, to achieve a supposed "glow" or "purified" complexion. However, these methods can lead to severe burns, scarring, and even permanent damage to the skin.

The study highlights that social media platforms like TikTok have created an environment where young girls feel pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. The constant exposure to manipulated images and videos of flawless skin can lead to a distorted perception of what is considered "beautiful" or "healthy." As a result, many young girls are turning to these extreme heat treatments in an attempt to achieve the same appearance.

The findings of this study emphasize the need for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to be aware of these social media trends and their potential consequences. By promoting accurate information about skin health and encouraging critical thinking around beauty standards, we can work towards creating a safer and more informed online community for young girls.