Pediatr. praxi. 2026;27(4):251-253 | DOI: 10.36290/ped.2026.041

Acute persistent facial erythema following anti-age cosmetic application in an 11-year-old girl: the growing psychosocial impact of skincare trends in childhood

MUDr. Barbara Ivanková, MBA^{1, 2}, MUDr. Hana Juhásová, MPH¹, MUDr. Tomáš Kampe, PhD., MPH¹, doc. MUDr. Janette Baloghová, PhD.^{1, 2}

¹ Klinika dermatovenerológie, Univerzitná nemocnica L. Pasteura, Košice

² Klinika dermatovenerológie, Lekárska fakulta Univerzity P. J. Šafárika, Košice

In recent years, we have observed a significant increase in the use of cosmetic and skincare products among children and preadolescents, influenced by a combination of social media, influencer marketing, beauty trends, the commercial availability of cosmetic products, and changing societal perceptions of appearance and skincare. Pediatric skin possesses distinct epidermal barrier properties and increased vulnerability to irritant and allergic reactions. We present the case of an 11-year-old girl who developed sudden-onset intense persistent erythema of both cheeks following the application of an anti-age serum and subsequent decorative cosmetic product. Previous topical therapy with antihistamines and a topical corticosteroid showed no significant clinical improvement, leading to dermatological evaluation. Following a short course of systemic corticosteroid therapy, antihistamines, and intensive barrier repair treatment, gradual regression of the skin lesions was observed over a period of three weeks. Following a short course of systemic corticosteroids, antihistamines, and intensive barrier repair therapy, gradual resolution occurred within 3 weeks. This case highlights not only the differential diagnosis of acute facial erythema in childhood but also the psychosocial pressure exerted by social media, changing perceptions of beauty, and the need for education of children and parents regarding safe skincare practices.

Keywords: pediatric dermatology, contact dermatitis, facial erythema, skincare, social media, epidermal barrier.

Accepted: September 3, 2026; Published: September 17, 2026  Show citation