HARTFORD, CT (WFSB/Gray News) – Officials are urging parents to be wary of anti-aging skin care products marketed to children.

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong joined medical experts from Connecticut Children’s Medical Center for a news conference Monday morning to discuss the products.

Tong says the products are targeted at children on social media and presented as holiday products.

He said many anti-aging products contain active ingredients, including retinol and other acids, that are often unsuitable or even potentially harmful for children’s skin.

Despite this, he said that social media is full of impressive content targeting young users and suggested that such products will help achieve young, glowing skin.

The product, called Drunk Elephant, comes with bright and fun packaging, attracting the younger crowd to a product they don’t need to use.

Connecticut Children’s Hospital Chief Physician Dr. “Pediatricians often encounter children with irritated skin,” said Juan C. Salazar, MD.

“Signs of aging are not what a child should worry about,” Tong added.

The Drunk Elephants Itty, Bitty, Midi Committee Acid Kit, sold by beauty retailers, is what kids have become obsessed with.

“The packaging is clearly aimed at children, teens and tweens,” Tong said.

“These products can cause irritation, redness, breakouts, and long-term danger,” Salazar said.

Officials say social media platforms are building these into young children’s algorithms.

While 19-year-old Vivian Fuller stopped using Drunk Elephant products, she said she felt influenced by TikTok to use them a few years ago.

Tong sent a letter to beauty retailer Sephora questioning the company’s marketing strategy, especially how they target children, teens and teens.

Salazar says there are no warnings against use on the products. Parents should read ingredients and be aware of what is in their child’s products.

“As a parent, you need to be careful about what your children buy. Look at the labels. They don’t need a lot of that,” Salazar said.

Salazar says skin care for young children should be simple.

It is always best to consult a doctor before introducing products with active ingredients for teenagers.

It’s also important to remember that just because a product seems aimed at a younger demographic doesn’t mean they should use it.

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