Dermatological complications in adolescents: Therapeutic strategies for cosmeticorexia
Objectives: This study analyzes the impact of social media on the emergence of an emerging condition known as cosmeticorexia, particularly in adolescents, and its relationship with dermatological and emotional complications. Based on a scientific paper in the process of publication, a clinical case is presented that illustrates an interdisciplinary approach from dermatology, aesthetic medicine, and mental health, highlighting preventive and therapeutic strategies.
Introduction: Cosmeticorexia, defined as the obsession with achieving an ideal beauty through the excessive use of cosmetic products, primarily affects adolescents influenced by unrealistic beauty standards promoted on social media. This condition manifests in dermatological complications such as dermatitis, severe acne, and scars, as well as emotional issues related to anxiety, low self-esteem, and obsessive behaviors. Social media and the cosmetic industry amplify this issue, requiring an integral approach for its prevention and management.
Materials / method: We report the case of a 14-year-old patient with a history of severe acne exacerbated by the unsupervised use of cosmetic products, including homemade preparations inspired by content on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. The interdisciplinary management included:
Suspension of irritant products and dermatological treatment with specific active ingredients.
Psychotherapeutic intervention to address anxiety and obsessive behaviors related to self-image.
Education of the patient and her environment on proper skin care and the risks of exposure to unrealistic standards on social media.
Results: The interdisciplinary treatment resulted in:
Significant improvement in skin lesions and reduction of early scarring.
Reduction in anxiety and obsessive behaviors related to appearance.
Empowerment of the patient through education on personal care and the development of a healthier relationship with her self-image.
Conclusion: Cosmeticorexia represents an emerging challenge in the practice of aesthetic medicine. This clinical case demonstrates that integral management combining dermatology with mental health is key to treating this condition. Based on a scientific paper in the process of publication, the importance of early education and regulation of targeted marketing on social media is highlighted as preventive strategies to minimize the impact of this condition in adolescents.