The trend towards beauty salons for young children is gaining ground and has been growing for some time. So much so that the SFD (Société Française de Dermatologie - French Society of Dermatology) and the SFDP (Société Française de Dermatologie Pédiatrique - French Society of Paediatric Dermatology) have warned of the risks associated with beauty and cosmetic practices on children.
In a press release issued on 3 February 2025, these two learned societies state that they were “concerned by the recent increase in the number of beauty salons for young children, and by the possible risks associated with the aesthetic practices employed and the cosmetic products used.”
They also reiterate“’certain principles governing the use of cosmetics and the associated risks.”
The dermatologists highlight seven warning points, summarised below.
No specific regulations
To date, there are no regulations defining cosmetics for children, only substances and ingredients prohibited in products specifically designed for them. However, in children, certain substances applied to the skin, nails or hair can also have harmful effects on other organs through diffusion through the skin or ingestion of these products.
Allergic risk
The most allergenic or photosensitising substances are banned under European regulations. But sensitisation to authorised substances can develop. The common sense principle is therefore to avoid applying products to the skin that are not necessary.
Endocrine disruptors
The risk posed by certain cosmetic ingredients suspected of being endocrine disruptors is taken into account when the SCCS assesses their safety. But the possible effects of the various substances have yet to be assessed.
Organic cosmetics
The …
