Published Dec 01, 2025 | 7:00 AM ⚊ Updated Dec 01, 2025 | 7:00 AM
Dr Jenny Mathew says there is a misconception that parlour treatments are all “natural” and dermatology treatments are “chemical” or “medicated”.
Synopsis: An obsession with fair skin, the availability of a plethora of skincare products, coupled with peer advice often lands teens in trouble—and in a dermatologist’s consulting room—as their do-it-at-home procedures backfire.
Dr Jenny Mathew has seen it all. Dermatologist and Director of the Lisa Skin Clinic in Kozhikode, Kerala, she has handled teenagers committing mistakes in their desperate skincare attempts — from harsh DIY scrubs to early use of makeup — in a bid to achieve glass skin.
In an exclusive interview with South First, Dr Mathew speaks about the common skincare mistakes teens make. She also explains why viral beauty trends often backfire and what young people should really do to build healthy, strong skin. Excerpts:
Q: Many people fear dermatology procedures. Why is it so?
A: When people walk into a dermatologist’s clinic for the first time, they usually carry a lot of fear — of pain, of side effects, fear because of what they’ve heard about procedures going wrong for celebrities. Older family members often warn them that doing anything on the skin will “damage it” or “make it age faster”.
There is the fear about what the doctor will suggest, whether it will hurt, and whether it is safe.
That’s why, in my first consultation, I focus on handholding. I start with basics — skincare, sleep, diet, general health — because procedures are not the first step.
Once they see small, safe improvements — like medicated facials or mild tightening treatments — their confidence increases and only then do we move ahead.
Q: People freely experiment with facials in beauty parlours. Are parlour facials safe?
A: Many assume parlour treatments are “natural” and dermatology treatments are “chemical” or “medicated”. But the truth is, most chemical peels we use are made from natural fruit extracts like apple or sugarcane. They’re simply active ingredients.
People believe parlours use harmless, fruit-based products, but that’s not always true.
Dermatology treatments are personalised to skin type, age and needs, and are far safer. Younger people understand this better, but those in their 30s and 40s, who have never done any treatment, are more apprehensive.
Q: Social media is flooded with skin-whitening hacks and viral trends. How dangerous are they?
A: One of the most dangerous trends we are seeing is the rise of unapproved, unlicensed whitening creams that are being promoted online. These creams promise fairness in one or two weeks and are sold easily without any regulation. Celebrities or influencers promote them without knowing their content.
People use shortcuts, but shortcuts come with a price. These creams damage the skin barrier, cause irritation, lead to rebound darkening, and create psychological distress because users get “hooked” to the initial fairness and panic when they darken again.
There have even been cases — especially in Kerala — where mercury in fairness creams caused kidney damage. It’s far more than a cosmetic issue.
Q: What are some common skin damages caused by following social media routines?
A: Many teens and young adults aggressively layer products — AHA, BHA, retinols — because they want “glass skin.” They start with normal skin and end up with sensitive skin.
Others buy the cheapest trending products without knowing that even lipsticks can contain heavy metals. Whatever is applied daily gets absorbed and even ingested.
The biggest issue is that they don’t know what their skin needs. They follow whatever influencers suggest.
Q: Teens these days use makeup every day? Is it safe?
A: Early, daily use of heavy makeup, especially long-stay liquid lipsticks, leads to absorption of chemicals, causing dry and dark lips.
Teens then panic and use even more makeup to cover the damage, creating a cycle where natural skin loses its glow.
At a young age, the skin should naturally look fresh and healthy, but stress, heat, pollution, and lifestyle changes make it patchy and dull. Makeup then becomes a crutch.
Q: What basic skincare routine should teenagers follow?
A: Teen skin needs prevention, not aggressive treatments. Here’s a simple routine:
Serums can come later and only under dermatologist supervision. Also, teens should avoid switching products too often. Stick to what works.
Q: What ingredients should teens avoid in skincare products?
A: They should look for products that are:
Avoid starting AHA, BHA, and retinols too early — these can increase sun damage and irritation if not used correctly. If you don’t know what’s inside the bottle, it’s better not to use it without guidance.
Q: Is it okay to use regular soap on the face?
A: No. Regular soaps have an alkaline pH, which strips the skin and damages the barrier.
Use a syndet bar (a pH-balanced cleansing bar) or a gentle cleanser instead.
Q: Which DIY home remedies can be harmful?
DIY isn’t harmless — it can worsen the problem.
Q: What message do you have for teens struggling with acne?
A: Do not panic. Acne is treatable. Second, don’t ignore it. The earlier you treat acne, the less likely you are to get scars. Many teens wait three to four years trying home remedies, internet suggestions, and social-media hacks, and finally come when there’s scarring.
Acne can have internal causes like hormones, stress, sleep, diet, and gut health.
Early consultation helps us evaluate if hormonal tests are needed, guide diet, prescribe safe products, and prevent long-term damage.
Scars require lasers and multiple procedures later — so early treatment is the best approach.
(Edited by Majnu Babu).
