When does skincare become a compulsive problem?
Cosmeticorexia is a newly proposed term. It describes compulsive skincare obsession. But experts caution it is not yet a recognised diagnosis.
Cosmeticorexia is a newly proposed term for compulsive skincare obsession. Cosmeticorexia is not yet recognised as a medical or psychiatric diagnosis.
People with cosmeticorexic traits become anxious if they cannot complete elaborate routines or buy new products. People with cosmeticorexic traits often use strong ingredients like retinoids.
One small study in dermatology found traits in about 8% of patients. These patients had undergone multiple filler procedures.
Experts caution this sample is too small to show how common the pattern is. A 2025 study looked at TikTok skincare videos.
Routines from children aged 7 to 18 averaged six products. These cost about US$168 (A$230).
Many contained strong active ingredients. Comparing appearance on social media links to body image concerns.
But experts note there are multiple causes. They include perfectionism, marketing, beauty standards, and family attitudes.
Using too much retinoid can damage the skin barrier.
- 8% of dermatology patients
- Traits found in study
- 6 products for ages 7-18
- Average products in TikTok videos
- US$168 (A$230)
- Average cost of routines
Why it mattersUnderstanding cosmeticorexia matters for parents and teens. It helps them tell healthy skincare from trend-chasing that can be expensive and damage skin.
AustraliaAustralian teens are exposed to the same TikTok skincare trends. Australian dermatologists report similar concerns about overuse of potent ingredients.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 5 d ago
