Dear Moms: Please Don’t Buy Me That TikTok Serum

When Skincare Gets Too Grown-Up

It usually starts like this:
Your daughter comes into the kitchen, phone in hand, screen glowing with a viral video. "Mom, I need this serum—everyone's using it."

It’s shiny. It’s popular. It’s labeled anti-aging.

And it’s probably made for someone 20 years older than her.

The Pressure Is Real—and It's Happening Early

Tween and teen girls today are growing up fast. With constant exposure to influencer routines, skincare hauls, and 10-step regimens, it’s easy for young girls to think they need to "correct" something about their skin before it’s even had the chance to grow.

What starts as curiosity quickly becomes pressure:
To glow. To fix. To treat problems they don’t even have yet.

But just because it’s trending doesn’t mean it’s healthy.

What TikTok Doesn’t Tell Her About Retinol

Retinol, exfoliating acids, and active serums were made for adult skin. They can be great—when used appropriately. But for tween and teen skin, they can disrupt the skin barrier, cause dryness, or trigger breakouts.

That viral “miracle” serum? It may come with:

• Peeling
  
  

• Irritation
  
  

• Redness
  
  

• Sensitivity to sunlight
  
  

• Long-term barrier damage
  
  

For young, still-developing skin, these side effects are more than inconvenient—they’re harmful.

What Young Skin Actually Needs

Here’s what her skin craves—and what you can confidently say yes to:

1. A Gentle Cleanser:
Washes away dirt and excess oil without stripping or stinging.

2. A Hydrating Moisturizer:
With ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and ceramides to support the skin’s natural barrier.

3. Sunscreen:
The one product dermatologists recommend for every age, every day.

That’s it. No harsh actives. No unnecessary treatments. Just care, protection, and balance.

How to Talk to Her About It

You don’t have to shut her down or shame her excitement. Instead, turn it into a teachable moment. Try saying:

“I love that you’re taking care of your skin. Let’s look for something that keeps it healthy without stressing it out.”

Then introduce her to something made for her—like the Dew Work Cleanser and Dew Wonders Moisturizer. They’re safe, gentle, and still give that glow she’s after.

The Takeaway: She Doesn’t Need the Trends—She Needs the Truth

At The Dew Generation, we believe skincare should build confidence, not damage it. We make products that protect, support, and simplify—so girls can feel proud of their routines without risking their skin.

Explore The Dew Generation's safe, glow-boosting products for tweens
Shop the Dew-O Kit for a simple, safe starter routine—no retinol, no pressure, just results made for her.