I got a talking-to yesterday because a shopper left a review claiming I was “judgmental and unhelpful” when she tried to buy Murad retinol products for her 9-year-old. Throughout the interaction, I was friendly and polite, simply asking questions and warning her about potential side effects. The girl’s skin was flawless! It’s frustrating because being honest is part of my role. Clearly, she didn’t appreciate the advice. I’m just really irritated and over TikTok trends. 
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That is crazy. I’m totally on your side. My 12-year-old is obsessed with everything she sees on TikTok, but I’m not having it. I keep telling her that at her age, she only needs a basic wash, moisturizer, and SPF. But hey, I’ve only been doing skincare for three decades, so what’s my opinion worth? Haha.
Is “Bubble” not enough for them these days? (Speaking as another mom of a nine-year-old).
Oh goodness, no. My 12-year-old barely washes her face, and I practically have to tackle her just to get sunscreen on her at the pool lol.
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Plus, Murad costs around $100… that’s just insane lol 
If I witness another 12-year-old purchasing Drunk Elephant without any clue what’s in it or how it affects their skin—especially given the price—I’m going to lose it.
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Exactly! I feel for you regarding that complaint. Usually, when I tell parents their kids don’t need these products, they’re on board. No arguments. Some parents understand, but we’ll never figure out why others don’t.
Having worked at Ulta and seen an 8-year-old literally cry because her mother wouldn’t buy her Drunk Elephant… I totally get where you’re coming from.
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That’s unbelievable. Maybe they assume it treats breakouts. If there’s a real skin issue, kids and teens should really see a doctor. My son had cystic acne as a teenager, and his physician prescribed Retin-A, which worked wonders for him.
I really miss Bonnie Bell. I’m showing my age, but they had such good stuff for the tween demographic.
Wow! That’s ridiculous! What was her justification? Girls that young have great skin and shouldn’t be using harsh chemicals 
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Man, I recall trying my mom’s ROC retinol cream when I was little and it absolutely scorched my face. I’m so relieved I grew up in an era where we played Webkinz and Girls Go Games instead of having influencers push unnecessary products on us.
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Good grief. I remember being convinced by Jennifer Love Hewitt to use Neutrogena for everything. Things have really shifted. Please know that many of us value your professional advice. These parents are the ones letting their underage kids on social media. It isn’t your fault, and she was probably already feeling pressured by her child before she even talked to you. Stay honest; you’ll get better at spotting these customers and won’t let them drain your energy.
Back when I was a teen, we were basically sanding our faces off with St. Ives apricot scrub. I wish there had been someone to offer age-appropriate skincare tips back then. My 13-year-old just uses Clinique face wash and the moisturizer we share, and that’s plenty.