Cosmeticorexia in a 13-year-old patient: first clinical report with skin complications
Objectives: To report the first documented clinical case of compulsive aesthetic behavior in an adolescent patient with a confirmed diagnosis of cosmeticorexia, highlighting the dermatological complications resulting from unsupervised use of products and viral beauty practices seen on social media.
Introduction: The growing exposure of adolescents to aesthetic content on digital platforms has triggered compulsive skincare behaviors, often without medical supervision. These practices—driven by idealized beauty standards and viral home remedies—can lead to significant skin damage. Cosmeticorexia is an emerging clinical entity with no standardized diagnostic criteria and no prior cases reported in the scientific literature.
Materials / method: We report the case of a previously healthy 13-year-old female who presented with inflammatory lesions in the perioral region. Clinical history revealed an extreme skincare routine including unprescribed combined use of salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids, daily occlusive makeup, and compulsive skin manipulation. Influenced by TikTok, the patient applied garlic peel directly to her face as a "natural acne remedy". An interdisciplinary medical and psychological evaluation was performed.
Results: We present the case of a healthy 13-year-old female with inflammatory facial lesions. History revealed an unsupervised skincare routine with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, daily occlusive makeup, and compulsive skin picking. Influenced by TikTok, she applied garlic peel to her face as an acne remedy. A comprehensive evaluation was performed, including dermatological examination, psychosocial assessment, and a structured family interview.
Conclusion: This case represents the first clinical report of cosmeticorexia with skin complications caused by social media-driven aesthetic behaviors. Early identification and interdisciplinary management are essential to prevent misdiagnosis, iatrogenesis, and lesion chronicity. Medical professionals must be aware of the influence of digital content on adolescent aesthetic behavior.