CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It wasn’t too long ago products from Ulta and Sephora were topping Lauren and London's wish lists: and the 13-year-olds aren’t alone.
“This is the first generation that’s really grown up in this digital age where TikTok and Youtube have replaced linear TV," certified dermatologist Dr. Marnie Nussbaum said on NBC's Today Show.
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Nussbaum said that generational difference allows marketing strategies to target young ones.
Meanwhile, data from investment banking company, Piper Sandler shows teens spent 23% more on cosmetics, skin care, and fragrance in 2023 compared to 2022.
They spent an average of $324 a year on these products numbers many Charlotte moms are used to seeing.
"So our last trip to Ulta, I would say each of them had about $70 in their baskets," said Lauren and London’s mom, Tamara Jones. She keeps a close eye on their shopping carts, on top of keeping up with their doctors.
"We walk through what the product is, the research, what’s exactly in the product. Because again, they’re using medicine from their dermatologist," she explained.
For parents out there, there’s yet another source of help.
Daleesa McDonald is a local esthetician. Like dermatologists, they’re certified in skin care. Unlike dermatologists, they aren't able to make diagnoses.
That’s because estheticians focus only on the skin’s surface.
McDonald said kids can see breakouts and other irritations by using products that are meant for adults. She has advice for when it’s time to get a professional involved.
"When breakouts are lasting longer than (certain )periods because usually teens have a grace period of about five days," McDonald explained. "So, if their breakouts are lasting longer than that, get her to a dermatologist."
As for Lauren and London, they’re still working on sticking to their mom’s budget.
But because they have the right tools—a watchful parent and a dermatologist of their own—their wallets are their only worries.
Contact Kia Murray at kmurray@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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