THE CONVERSATION: I love my skincare routine. Do I have a body image problem?

The pursuit of flawless skin is a common pursuit across age groups, from tweens to adults. This pursuit can lead to body-image anxiety, skin damage, and compulsive behaviors. When self-care becomes compulsive, it could be classified as cosmeticorexia, though this term is not yet recognized as a medical or psychiatric diagnosis.

A small study found "cosmeticorexic traits" in 8% of dermatology patients who had undergone multiple filler procedures, but this does not indicate how widespread cosmeticorexia might be in adults, teenagers, or the broader population. Research shows that exposure to complex skincare routines and anti-ageing messages online, particularly on social media platforms, can contribute to body image concerns and eating disorder symptoms in young people.

Excessive skincare routines involving multiple products and procedures can disrupt the skin barrier, cause inflammation, photosensitivity, or contact dermatitis. A 2025 study of 100 TikTok videos revealed that girl's skincare routines contained an average of six products, many of which were potentially irritating ingredients. The study also found that only 26% of daytime routines included sunscreen.

While skincare can be enjoyable, creative, and soothing, there are warning signs that self-care has become more concerning. These include spending increasing amounts of time or money on skincare, feeling compelled to follow a rigid routine, becoming anxious or irritable when products are unavailable, frequently checking or concealing perceived skin imperfections, and avoiding social activities due to skin concerns.

If skin worries are consuming substantial time, interfering with daily life, or seriously affecting mood, it is important to seek help from a GP or mental health professional.