Acessibilidade / Reportar erro

BATHING, MAKE-UP, AND SUNSCREEN: WHICH PRODUCTS DO CHILDREN USE?

ABSTRACT

Objective:

To evaluate the hygiene practices and frequency of use of personal hygiene products, cosmetics, and sunscreen among children and adolescents.

Methods:

Cross-sectional study with interviews about skincare conducted with caregivers through closed-ended questions. We included patients up to 14 years of age waiting for consultation in pediatric outpatient clinics of a tertiary hospital. We performed a descriptive statistical analysis and applied the Kruskal-Wallis test and Fisher’s exact test to compare the practices according to maternal schooling.

Results:

We conducted 276 interviews. The median age of the participants was age four, and 150 (54.3%) were males. A total of 143 (51.8%) participants bathed once a day and 128 (46.3%) bathed two or more times a day, lasting up to ten minutes in 132 (47.8%) cases. Adult soap was used by 103 (37.3%) children and bar soap by 220 (79.7%). Fifty-three (19.2%) participants used sunscreen daily. Perfume was used by 182 (65.9%) children, hair gel by 98 (35.5%), nail polish by 62 (22.4%), and some type of make-up by 71 (25.7%) - eyeshadow by 30 (10.8%), lipstick by 52 (18.8%), face powder and mascara by 13 (4.7%). Make-up use started at a median age of 4 years. Henna tattoo was done in eight children.

Conclusions:

The children studied used unsuitable products for their skin, such as those intended for adults, used sunscreen inadequately, and started wearing make-up early, evidencing the need for medical orientation.

Keywords:
Cosmetics; Personal hygiene products; Children; Adolescent

RESUMO

Objetivo:

Avaliar os hábitos de higiene e a frequência do uso de produtos de higiene pessoal, cosméticos e protetor solar nas crianças e adolescentes.

Métodos:

Estudo transversal com entrevistas para cuidadores sobre cuidados com a pele, por meio de perguntas fechadas. Incluídos pacientes de até 14 anos que consultavam nos ambulatórios pediátricos de um hospital terciário. Realizada estatística descritiva e aplicados os testes de Kruskal-Wallis e exato de Fisher para comparar os hábitos conforme a escolaridade materna.

Resultados:

Foram realizadas 276 entrevistas. A mediana de idade foi de 4 anos, sendo 150 (54,3%) crianças do sexo masculino. O número de banhos por dia foi de um em 143 (51,8%) casos e dois ou mais por parte de 128 (46,3%) indivíduos, com duração de até dez minutos em 132 (47,8%) dos participantes. O sabonete destinado a adultos era utilizado por 103 (37,3%) crianças e o sabonete em barra por 220 (79,7%) delas. Protetor solar era utilizado diariamente por 53 (19,2%) participantes. Perfume foi utilizado por 182 (65,9%) integrantes da amostra, gel de cabelo por 98 (35,5%), esmalte por 62 (22,4%) e algum tipo de maquiagem por 71 (25,7%) - sombra em 30 (10,8%), batom em 52 (18,8%), pó facial e rímel em 13 (4,7%). A mediana de idade de início do uso de maquiagem foi de 4 anos. Tatuagem de hena foi realizada em oito crianças.

Conclusões:

As crianças estudadas utilizavam produtos inadequados para a sua pele, como os destinados à pele do adulto, e faziam uso incorreto do protetor solar e uso precoce de maquiagem, mostrando a importância da orientação médica.

Palavras-chave:
Cosméticos; Produtos para higiene pessoal; Crianças; Adolescente

INTRODUCTION

Skin is the barrier between the body and the external environment. The epidermis is the outermost layer of skin, and the stratum corneum (SC) plays the role of barrier. This barrier is both physical, preventing the invasion of pathogens, and chemical, due to its acidic pH, in addition to acting in the maintenance of skin hydration.11. Telofski LS, Morello AP, Mack MC, Stamatas GN. The infant skin barrier: can we preserve, protect, and enhance the barrier? Dermatol Res Pract. 2012;2012:198789. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/198789
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1155/...
Preserving the characteristics of the skin barrier is essential,22. Chiou YB, Blume-Peytavi U. Stratum corneum maturation. A review of neonatal skin function. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2004;17:57-66. https://doi.org/10.1159/000076015
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1159/...
and, therefore, hygiene products, cosmetics, and photoprotectors intended for children should be formulated accordingly.11. Telofski LS, Morello AP, Mack MC, Stamatas GN. The infant skin barrier: can we preserve, protect, and enhance the barrier? Dermatol Res Pract. 2012;2012:198789. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/198789
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1155/...

Skin pH is necessary to maintain the homeostasis of the skin barrier, for the integrity and cohesion of the SC, and also in antimicrobial defense. The normal skin pH is acidic, ranging from 4 to 6, known as the acid mantle, and protects the body against the proliferation of microorganisms. The enzymes involved in the synthesis and maintenance of the skin barrier are influenced by pH changes caused, for example, by bar soaps, which are alkaline.33. Ali SM, Yosipovitch G. Skin pH: from basic science to basic skin care. Acta Derm Venereol. 2013;93:261-7. https://doi.org/10.2340/00015555-1531
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.2340/...
The permeability and the pH of the SC are interdependent, and their changes can facilitate the development of skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis.11. Telofski LS, Morello AP, Mack MC, Stamatas GN. The infant skin barrier: can we preserve, protect, and enhance the barrier? Dermatol Res Pract. 2012;2012:198789. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/198789
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1155/...
,44. Lund C, Kuller J, Lane A, Lott JW, Raines DA. Neonatal skin care: the scientific basis for practice. Neonatal Netw. 1999;18:15-27. https://doi.org/10.1891/0730-0832.18.4.15
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1891/...

Proper skin hygiene in children is fundamental to eliminate potentially irritating substances,11. Telofski LS, Morello AP, Mack MC, Stamatas GN. The infant skin barrier: can we preserve, protect, and enhance the barrier? Dermatol Res Pract. 2012;2012:198789. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/198789
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1155/...
but the products used in this population should be mild, without fragrance, and with slightly acidic pH.55. Kuller JM. Infant skin care products: what are the issues? Adv Neonatal Care. 2016;16 (Suppl 5S):S3-12. https://doi.org/10.1097/ANC.0000000000000341
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1097/...
,66. Fernandes JD, Machado MC, Oliveira ZN. Children and newborn skin care and prevention. An Bras Dermatol. 2011;86:102-10. https://doi.org/10.1590/s0365-05962011000100014
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/...
Due to the lower concentration of sebum in the skin of children until the start of adolescence, their hygiene products do not need to have powerful detergent action.77. Stamatas GN, Nikolovski J, Mack MC, Kollias N. Infant skin physiology and development during the first years of life: a review of recent findings based on in vivo studies. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011;33:17-24. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00611.x
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...

The frequency of bathings varies in each country, influenced by individual, cultural, and social factors,88. Blume-Peytavi U, Cork MJ, Faergemann J, Szczapa J, Vanaclocha F, Gelmetti C. Bathing and cleansing in newborns from day 1 to first year of life: recommendations from a European round table meeting. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2009;23:751-9. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-3083.2009.03140.x
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
but the different processes adopted can determine the maintenance of or modification in the skin barrier. Bathings should be short and use warm water to minimize transepidermal water loss.77. Stamatas GN, Nikolovski J, Mack MC, Kollias N. Infant skin physiology and development during the first years of life: a review of recent findings based on in vivo studies. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011;33:17-24. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00611.x
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
,99. Pinheiro LA, Pinheiro AE. A pele da criança. A cosmética infantil será um mito? Acta Pediatr Port. 2007;38:200-8. Hygiene items must be water-based, of low-fixation, and not present oral toxicity to be classified as children’s products.1010. Brasil - Ministério da Saúde. Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (Anvisa). Resolução da diretoria colegiada - RDC nº 15, de 24 de abril de 2015, que dispõe sobre os requisitos técnicos para a concessão de registro de produtos de higiene pessoal, cosméticos e perfumes infantis e dá outras providências. Brasília: Diário Oficial; 2015. Using hygiene products and cosmetics for children is crucial since their skin will start resembling that of an adult as an effective barrier after the age of three to four years, and in producing sebum after the age of ten to 12 years.11. Telofski LS, Morello AP, Mack MC, Stamatas GN. The infant skin barrier: can we preserve, protect, and enhance the barrier? Dermatol Res Pract. 2012;2012:198789. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/198789
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1155/...
,44. Lund C, Kuller J, Lane A, Lott JW, Raines DA. Neonatal skin care: the scientific basis for practice. Neonatal Netw. 1999;18:15-27. https://doi.org/10.1891/0730-0832.18.4.15
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1891/...

Moreover, estimates indicate that up to 80% of the cumulative sun exposure of a person occurs during childhood; therefore, photoprotection is important in this life stage.1111. Schalka S, Steiner D, Ravelli FN, Steiner T, Terema AC, Marçon CR, et al. Brazilian consensus on photoprotection. An Bras Dermatol. 2014;89 (6 Suppl. 1):1-74. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20143971
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/...
Sunscreen prevents skin cancer,1111. Schalka S, Steiner D, Ravelli FN, Steiner T, Terema AC, Marçon CR, et al. Brazilian consensus on photoprotection. An Bras Dermatol. 2014;89 (6 Suppl. 1):1-74. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20143971
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/...
,1212. Grandjean P, Bellinger D, Bergman A, Cordier S, Davey-Smith G, Eskenazi B, et al. The faroes statement: human health effects of developmental exposure to chemicals in our environment. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2008;102:73-5. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1742-7843.2007.00114.x
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
however, the proportion of the pediatric population that uses this product daily is far from adequate.1313. Dupont L, Pereira DN. Sun exposure and sun protection habits in high school students from a city south of the country. An Bras Dermatol. 2012;87:90-5. https://doi.org/10.1590/s0365-05962012000100011
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/...
,1414. Hall HI, McDavid K, Jorgensen CM, Kraft JM. Factors associated with sunburn in white children aged 6 months to 11 years. Am J Prev Med. 2001;20:9-14. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0749-3797(00)00265-8
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/...
,1515. Bonfá R, Martins-Costa GM, Lovato B, Rezende R, Belletini C, Weber MB. Evaluation of the knowledge and photoprotection habits of children and their caregivers in the city of Porto Alegre, Brazil. Surg Cosmet Dermatol. 2014;6:148-53.,1616. Batista T, Fissmer MC, Porton KR, Schuelter-Trevisol F. Assessment of sun protection and skin cancer prevention among preschool children. Rev Paul Pediatr. 2013;31:17-23. http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0103-05822013000100004
https://doi.org/http://dx.doi.org/10.159...

In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the hygiene practices and frequency of use of personal hygiene products, cosmetics, and sunscreen among the pediatric population.

METHOD

We conducted a cross-sectional study, which included patients up to 14 years of age who were waiting for consultation in pediatric outpatient clinics (allergology, cardiology, dermatology, genetics, gastroenterology, general pediatrics, and pediatric surgery) of a tertiary hospital, from March 4, 2015 to March 30, 2016, after approval by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the institution.

The participants’ caregivers were interviewed based on a structured questionnaire on daily hygiene care and the use of sunscreen and cosmetics, such as make-up. We analyzed the variables: maternal age and schooling, patient’s age and gender, the number of weekly bathings, type of bathing (shower, bath, or both), bathing duration, use of soap and soap type, use of shampoo and shampoo type, use of moisturizer, sunscreen, hair gel, and other cosmetics. Regarding make-up, the questions concerned the use of lipstick, nail polish, eyeshadow, eye pencil, liquid eyeliner, mascara, foundation/face powder, and blush. We also inquired about the starting age of and what motivated make-up use, as well as the use of henna tattoo and hair dye.

Researchers administered the questionnaires in the waiting room of outpatient clinics of the hospital, in the following weekdays: Mondays and Fridays in the afternoon; and Wednesdays during the morning shift. We included all children waiting for consultation during this period, regardless of their diagnosis or specialization of the outpatient clinic treating them, who agreed to participate in the study and whose parent/guardian signed the informed consent form. The study had no exclusion criteria.

The statistical analysis was performed in the software R, version 3.3.1.; data were expressed as frequencies, mean, and median; and we applied the Kruskal-Wallis test and Fisher’s exact test to compare the use of sunscreen and the starting age of make-up use with maternal schooling, considering a 5% significance level.

RESULTS

A total of 276 caregivers of children waiting for consultation were interviewed. In 179 (64.8%) cases, the caregiver was the child’s mother. Regarding maternal schooling, 100 (36.2%) mothers had elementary school education; 134 (48.5%), high school education; and 35 (12.6%), higher education. In seven (2.5%) cases, the caregiver did not know the maternal schooling.

Among the children participating, the median age was 4 years (10 days to 14 years), and 150 (54.3%) were males. The distribution by age group was two newborns (0.7%), 73 (26.6%) infants, 113 (40.9%) preschoolers, 60 (21.7%) schoolchildren, and 28 (10.1%) adolescents.

As to the children’s hygiene, 143 (51.8%) participants bathed once a day, 194 (70.2%) bathed in the shower, and in 144 (52.1%) cases, the bathings lasted more than 10 minutes. The water temperature was considered warm by 222 (80.4%) participants. Table 1 presents the remaining data.

Table 1
Distribution of hygiene practices and use of cosmetics among the participants.

Adult soap was used by 103 (37.3%) children. In regard to the form of soap, 220 (79.7%) participants used bar soap. Children’s shampoo was used by 182 (65.9%) individuals (Table 2) and sponge by 126 (45.6%).

Table 2
Distribution of the use of cosmetics among the participants.

Out of all participants, 112 (40.5%) did not use emollient after bathing, and, among those who did, 107 (38.7%) used it daily and 57 (20.6%), sporadically.

Regarding sunscreen, 106 (38.6%) participants never use the product. Fifty-three (19.2%) children applied it daily; 105 (38.4%), only in case of sun exposure; and 12 (4.35%), occasionally. Maternal schooling was not associated with the use of sunscreen (Figure 1, p=0.14).

Figure 1
Distribution of sunscreen use according to maternal schooling.

The number of children who used hair gel was 98 (35.5%); perfume, 182 (65.9%); deodorant, 37 (13.4%); and nail polish, 62 (22.4%).

Seventy-one (25.7%) participants wore some type of make-up, such as eyeshadow, lipstick, foundation, face powder or blush, and mascara. Among them, two (2.8%) were infants; 32 (45.0%), preschoolers; 28 (39.4%), schoolchildren; and nine (12.7%), adolescents. Table 2 shows the frequency of each product. Make-up use started at the median age of 4 years (1 to 11 years). The starting age of make-up use showed no statistically significant relationship with maternal schooling. In mothers with elementary school, high school, and higher education, the starting age was, respectively, 4.8, 4.0, and 4.2 years (p=0.66). The reason for the use of cosmetics was the child’s request in 53 (74.6%) cases, the desire of the parents in eight (11.2%), and the influence of others in 10 (14.2%).

Henna tattoo was done in eight (2.8%) participants, with ages ranging from 4 to 12 years, and six (2.1%) children, aged 5 to 12 years, used hair dye.

DISCUSSION

The data presented revealed that the skin hygiene in children is not adequate, with bathing frequency and duration higher than the recommended, use of adult products, and application of sunscreen only in case of sun exposure.

Children’s skin is 30% thinner than that of adults until the age of 3 years, in addition to losing more liquid and having greater absorption capacity.11. Telofski LS, Morello AP, Mack MC, Stamatas GN. The infant skin barrier: can we preserve, protect, and enhance the barrier? Dermatol Res Pract. 2012;2012:198789. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/198789
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1155/...
Therefore, children should only use products intended for them.55. Kuller JM. Infant skin care products: what are the issues? Adv Neonatal Care. 2016;16 (Suppl 5S):S3-12. https://doi.org/10.1097/ANC.0000000000000341
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1097/...
,99. Pinheiro LA, Pinheiro AE. A pele da criança. A cosmética infantil será um mito? Acta Pediatr Port. 2007;38:200-8.,1717. Manová E, von Goetz NV, Keller C, Siegrist M, Hungerbühler K. Use patterns of leave-on personal care products among Swiss-German children, adolescents, and adults. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2013;10:2778-98. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph10072778
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.3390/...
Bathings with liquid soaps that do not alter the pH of the skin surface or cause irritation have proven to be more efficient than those with only water.1818. Blume-Peytavi U, Hauser M, Stamatas GN, Pathirana D, Garcia BN. Skin care practices for newborns and infants: review of the clinical evidence for best practices. Pediatr Dermatol. 2012;29:1-14. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1525-1470.2011.01594.x
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
Syndets (soaps with synthetic surfactants) are based on neutral or acid synthetic detergents, eliminating fewer lipids and minimizing transepidermal water loss when compared with other soaps.77. Stamatas GN, Nikolovski J, Mack MC, Kollias N. Infant skin physiology and development during the first years of life: a review of recent findings based on in vivo studies. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011;33:17-24. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00611.x
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
Hygiene agents based on soaps are alkaline and more likely to cause skin irritation.33. Ali SM, Yosipovitch G. Skin pH: from basic science to basic skin care. Acta Derm Venereol. 2013;93:261-7. https://doi.org/10.2340/00015555-1531
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.2340/...
The present study indicated that 37.3% of the children used adult soap, which can lead to changes in the homeostasis of the skin barrier. The use of suitable soaps that do not alter the acidic skin pH must be part of the instructions for child hygiene.

The ideal bathing duration, especially among children with dry skin, should not exceed 10 minutes,1919. Rippke F, Schreiner V, Schwanitz HJ. The acidic milieu of the horny layer: new findings on the physiology and pathophysiology of skin pH. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2002;3:261-72. https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200203040-00004
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.2165/...
which was identified in 47.8% of the children in this study. Long bathings increase transepidermal water loss.77. Stamatas GN, Nikolovski J, Mack MC, Kollias N. Infant skin physiology and development during the first years of life: a review of recent findings based on in vivo studies. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011;33:17-24. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00611.x
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
Thus, 52.1% of the children studied might have the characteristics of the skin barrier damaged due to longer bathings. Bathings with adequate temperature (37.0-37.5°C), found in 80.4% of the population studied, preserve the thermal stability and do not increase transepidermal water loss77. Stamatas GN, Nikolovski J, Mack MC, Kollias N. Infant skin physiology and development during the first years of life: a review of recent findings based on in vivo studies. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011;33:17-24. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00611.x
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
.

The use of emollients in patients with xerotic skin improves the efficiency of the skin barrier.2020. Gelmetti C, Boralevi F, Seité S, Grimalt R, Humbert P, Luger T, et al. Quality of life of parents living with a child suffering from atopic dermatitis before and after a 3-month treatment with an emollient. Pediatr Dermatol. 2012;29:714-8. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1525-1470.2012.01817.x
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
The benefit of using emollients routinely in children without xeroderma still requires further studies.11. Telofski LS, Morello AP, Mack MC, Stamatas GN. The infant skin barrier: can we preserve, protect, and enhance the barrier? Dermatol Res Pract. 2012;2012:198789. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/198789
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1155/...
In the population assessed, 59.4% used emollients. Among these individuals, 38.7% used it daily, which is more effective in protecting and maintaining the skin barrier than the sporadic use55. Kuller JM. Infant skin care products: what are the issues? Adv Neonatal Care. 2016;16 (Suppl 5S):S3-12. https://doi.org/10.1097/ANC.0000000000000341
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1097/...
declared by the other participants.

Proper photoprotection for all age groups is an essential public health measure to prevent skin neoplasms1111. Schalka S, Steiner D, Ravelli FN, Steiner T, Terema AC, Marçon CR, et al. Brazilian consensus on photoprotection. An Bras Dermatol. 2014;89 (6 Suppl. 1):1-74. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20143971
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/...
,1212. Grandjean P, Bellinger D, Bergman A, Cordier S, Davey-Smith G, Eskenazi B, et al. The faroes statement: human health effects of developmental exposure to chemicals in our environment. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2008;102:73-5. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1742-7843.2007.00114.x
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
as well as photoaging.1111. Schalka S, Steiner D, Ravelli FN, Steiner T, Terema AC, Marçon CR, et al. Brazilian consensus on photoprotection. An Bras Dermatol. 2014;89 (6 Suppl. 1):1-74. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20143971
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/...
In the sample investigated, 61.9% of the children used sunscreen, but only 19.2% on a daily basis. In 2012, Dupont and Pereira conducted a study in the city of Carlos Barbosa, in Southern Brazil, and revealed that 8.1% of the pediatric population studied used sunscreen daily.1313. Dupont L, Pereira DN. Sun exposure and sun protection habits in high school students from a city south of the country. An Bras Dermatol. 2012;87:90-5. https://doi.org/10.1590/s0365-05962012000100011
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/...
An investigation carried out with preschoolers from public and private schools of a city in Santa Catarina, Brazil, found that 4.4% of the sample applied sunscreen daily.1616. Batista T, Fissmer MC, Porton KR, Schuelter-Trevisol F. Assessment of sun protection and skin cancer prevention among preschool children. Rev Paul Pediatr. 2013;31:17-23. http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0103-05822013000100004
https://doi.org/http://dx.doi.org/10.159...
In Porto Alegre, Brazil, caregivers were questioned regarding the application of sunscreen in children, and 18.6% of them declared using it daily. These data indicate the need for educational campaigns for photoprotection targeted at children and adolescents2121. Álvarez-Garrido H, Nicasio CS, Velázquez-Tarjuelo D, Hernanz JM. Las quemaduras solares en la infancia: importancia de la educación en fotoprotección. Acta Pediatr Esp. 2011;69:217-22. and their parents/guardians,2222. van Osch L, Reubsaet A, Lechner L, de Vries H. The formation of specific action plans can enhance sun protection behavior in motivated parents. Prev Med. 2008;47:127-32. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2008.02.025
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/...
given that sun exposure at early life stages influences the onset of skin neoplasms, and sun protection practices acquired in childhood and adolescence can change future behaviors.1111. Schalka S, Steiner D, Ravelli FN, Steiner T, Terema AC, Marçon CR, et al. Brazilian consensus on photoprotection. An Bras Dermatol. 2014;89 (6 Suppl. 1):1-74. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20143971
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/...

We found increasingly early use of make-up, such as lipstick, lip gloss, and eyeshadow, in the pediatric population.99. Pinheiro LA, Pinheiro AE. A pele da criança. A cosmética infantil será um mito? Acta Pediatr Port. 2007;38:200-8. The children participating in this study started wearing make-up early, regardless of maternal schooling, as reported by Biesterbos in 2013.2323. Biesterbos JW, Dudzina T, Delmaar CJ, Bakker MI, Russel FG, Goetz N, et al. Usage patterns of personal care products: important factors for exposure assessment. Food Chem Toxicol. 2013;55:8-17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2012.11.014
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/...
A quarter of the sample investigated (25.7%) used some type of make-up, starting at a median age of 4 years. Few studies in the literature have evaluated the frequency of use of cosmetics among the pediatric population. In 2015, research conducted in France underlined that the use of make-up in girls aged 4 to 14 years ranged between 11 and 19%.2424. Ficheux AS, Wesolek N, Chevillotte G, Roudot AC. Consumption of cosmetic products by the French population. First part: frequency data. Food Chem Toxicol. 2015;78:159-69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2015.01.016
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/...
In California, 60% of children aged 2 to 5 years wore lipstick.2525. Wu XM, Bennett DH, Ritz B, Cassady DL, Lee K, Hertz-Picciotto I. Usage pattern of personal care products in California households. Food Chem Toxicol. 2010;48:3109-19. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2010.08.004
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/...
Children might be more susceptible to the effects of exposure to chemical agents because they have an immature immune system and a greater proportional body surface area.1717. Manová E, von Goetz NV, Keller C, Siegrist M, Hungerbühler K. Use patterns of leave-on personal care products among Swiss-German children, adolescents, and adults. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2013;10:2778-98. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph10072778
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.3390/...
The impact of the frequent use of make-up may not be immediately visible, emerging only after years of exposure.1212. Grandjean P, Bellinger D, Bergman A, Cordier S, Davey-Smith G, Eskenazi B, et al. The faroes statement: human health effects of developmental exposure to chemicals in our environment. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2008;102:73-5. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1742-7843.2007.00114.x
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
The prevalence of contact dermatitis in the pediatric age group has increased progressively, due to both the improvement in diagnostic accuracy and the higher incidence of this condition, caused by greater exposure to potentially allergenic products.2626. Lee PW, Elsaie ML, Jacob SE. Allergic contact dermatitis in children: common allergens and treatment: a review. Curr Opin Pediatr. 2009;21:491-8. https://doi.org/10.1097/MOP.0b013e32832d2008
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1097/...
,2727. de Waard-van der FB, Andersen KE, Darsow U, Mortz CG, Orton D, Worm M, et al. Allergic contact dermatitis in children: which factors are relevant? (review of the literature). Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2013;24:321-9. https://doi.org/10.1111/pai.12043
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
When the cause for contact dermatitis cannot be determined, morbidity might be significant because of the chronicity and recurrence of the lesions.2626. Lee PW, Elsaie ML, Jacob SE. Allergic contact dermatitis in children: common allergens and treatment: a review. Curr Opin Pediatr. 2009;21:491-8. https://doi.org/10.1097/MOP.0b013e32832d2008
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1097/...
Thus, patients and their caregivers should be aware of the possible risks involving the use of make-up in childhood, such as contact dermatitis99. Pinheiro LA, Pinheiro AE. A pele da criança. A cosmética infantil será um mito? Acta Pediatr Port. 2007;38:200-8.,2828. Pham AK, Dinulos JG. Cosmeceuticals for children: should you care? Curr Opin Pediatr. 2014;26:446-51. https://doi.org/10.1097/MOP.0000000000000105
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1097/...
and exacerbation of atopic dermatitis.2828. Pham AK, Dinulos JG. Cosmeceuticals for children: should you care? Curr Opin Pediatr. 2014;26:446-51. https://doi.org/10.1097/MOP.0000000000000105
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1097/...
,2929. Belloni Fortina A, Fontana E, Peserico A. Contact sensitization in children: a retrospective study of 2,614 children from a Single Center. Pediatr Dermatol. 2016;33:399-404. https://doi.org/10.1111/pde.12873
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/...
We emphasize that skin products should be used with caution in children to avoid potentially allergenic substances.3030. Lazzarini R, Rangel MG, Hafner MF. Evaluation of the presence of allergens in children’s products available for sale in a big city. An Bras Dermatol. 2018;93:457-9. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20187111
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/...

A limitation of this study is the sample consisting of children treated in a tertiary hospital. Therefore, they might have received instructions regarding hygiene and photoprotection practices, which could overestimate the use of sunscreen and the number of children with appropriate hygiene practices. The results and discussion, however, showed that the pediatric population studied still presented inadequate hygiene practices and use of sunscreen, used products intended for adult skin, and wore make-up early.

Health professionals should be informed about this reality in order to instruct parents and guardians, and awareness campaigns on the theme should be developed and implemented.

REFERENCES

  • 1
    Telofski LS, Morello AP, Mack MC, Stamatas GN. The infant skin barrier: can we preserve, protect, and enhance the barrier? Dermatol Res Pract. 2012;2012:198789. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/198789
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/198789
  • 2
    Chiou YB, Blume-Peytavi U. Stratum corneum maturation. A review of neonatal skin function. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2004;17:57-66. https://doi.org/10.1159/000076015
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1159/000076015
  • 3
    Ali SM, Yosipovitch G. Skin pH: from basic science to basic skin care. Acta Derm Venereol. 2013;93:261-7. https://doi.org/10.2340/00015555-1531
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.2340/00015555-1531
  • 4
    Lund C, Kuller J, Lane A, Lott JW, Raines DA. Neonatal skin care: the scientific basis for practice. Neonatal Netw. 1999;18:15-27. https://doi.org/10.1891/0730-0832.18.4.15
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1891/0730-0832.18.4.15
  • 5
    Kuller JM. Infant skin care products: what are the issues? Adv Neonatal Care. 2016;16 (Suppl 5S):S3-12. https://doi.org/10.1097/ANC.0000000000000341
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1097/ANC.0000000000000341
  • 6
    Fernandes JD, Machado MC, Oliveira ZN. Children and newborn skin care and prevention. An Bras Dermatol. 2011;86:102-10. https://doi.org/10.1590/s0365-05962011000100014
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/s0365-05962011000100014
  • 7
    Stamatas GN, Nikolovski J, Mack MC, Kollias N. Infant skin physiology and development during the first years of life: a review of recent findings based on in vivo studies. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011;33:17-24. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00611.x
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00611.x
  • 8
    Blume-Peytavi U, Cork MJ, Faergemann J, Szczapa J, Vanaclocha F, Gelmetti C. Bathing and cleansing in newborns from day 1 to first year of life: recommendations from a European round table meeting. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2009;23:751-9. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-3083.2009.03140.x
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-3083.2009.03140.x
  • 9
    Pinheiro LA, Pinheiro AE. A pele da criança. A cosmética infantil será um mito? Acta Pediatr Port. 2007;38:200-8.
  • 10
    Brasil - Ministério da Saúde. Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (Anvisa). Resolução da diretoria colegiada - RDC nº 15, de 24 de abril de 2015, que dispõe sobre os requisitos técnicos para a concessão de registro de produtos de higiene pessoal, cosméticos e perfumes infantis e dá outras providências. Brasília: Diário Oficial; 2015.
  • 11
    Schalka S, Steiner D, Ravelli FN, Steiner T, Terema AC, Marçon CR, et al. Brazilian consensus on photoprotection. An Bras Dermatol. 2014;89 (6 Suppl. 1):1-74. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20143971
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20143971
  • 12
    Grandjean P, Bellinger D, Bergman A, Cordier S, Davey-Smith G, Eskenazi B, et al. The faroes statement: human health effects of developmental exposure to chemicals in our environment. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2008;102:73-5. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1742-7843.2007.00114.x
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1742-7843.2007.00114.x
  • 13
    Dupont L, Pereira DN. Sun exposure and sun protection habits in high school students from a city south of the country. An Bras Dermatol. 2012;87:90-5. https://doi.org/10.1590/s0365-05962012000100011
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/s0365-05962012000100011
  • 14
    Hall HI, McDavid K, Jorgensen CM, Kraft JM. Factors associated with sunburn in white children aged 6 months to 11 years. Am J Prev Med. 2001;20:9-14. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0749-3797(00)00265-8
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/s0749-3797(00)00265-8
  • 15
    Bonfá R, Martins-Costa GM, Lovato B, Rezende R, Belletini C, Weber MB. Evaluation of the knowledge and photoprotection habits of children and their caregivers in the city of Porto Alegre, Brazil. Surg Cosmet Dermatol. 2014;6:148-53.
  • 16
    Batista T, Fissmer MC, Porton KR, Schuelter-Trevisol F. Assessment of sun protection and skin cancer prevention among preschool children. Rev Paul Pediatr. 2013;31:17-23. http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0103-05822013000100004
    » https://doi.org/http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0103-05822013000100004
  • 17
    Manová E, von Goetz NV, Keller C, Siegrist M, Hungerbühler K. Use patterns of leave-on personal care products among Swiss-German children, adolescents, and adults. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2013;10:2778-98. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph10072778
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph10072778
  • 18
    Blume-Peytavi U, Hauser M, Stamatas GN, Pathirana D, Garcia BN. Skin care practices for newborns and infants: review of the clinical evidence for best practices. Pediatr Dermatol. 2012;29:1-14. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1525-1470.2011.01594.x
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1525-1470.2011.01594.x
  • 19
    Rippke F, Schreiner V, Schwanitz HJ. The acidic milieu of the horny layer: new findings on the physiology and pathophysiology of skin pH. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2002;3:261-72. https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200203040-00004
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200203040-00004
  • 20
    Gelmetti C, Boralevi F, Seité S, Grimalt R, Humbert P, Luger T, et al. Quality of life of parents living with a child suffering from atopic dermatitis before and after a 3-month treatment with an emollient. Pediatr Dermatol. 2012;29:714-8. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1525-1470.2012.01817.x
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1525-1470.2012.01817.x
  • 21
    Álvarez-Garrido H, Nicasio CS, Velázquez-Tarjuelo D, Hernanz JM. Las quemaduras solares en la infancia: importancia de la educación en fotoprotección. Acta Pediatr Esp. 2011;69:217-22.
  • 22
    van Osch L, Reubsaet A, Lechner L, de Vries H. The formation of specific action plans can enhance sun protection behavior in motivated parents. Prev Med. 2008;47:127-32. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2008.02.025
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2008.02.025
  • 23
    Biesterbos JW, Dudzina T, Delmaar CJ, Bakker MI, Russel FG, Goetz N, et al. Usage patterns of personal care products: important factors for exposure assessment. Food Chem Toxicol. 2013;55:8-17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2012.11.014
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2012.11.014
  • 24
    Ficheux AS, Wesolek N, Chevillotte G, Roudot AC. Consumption of cosmetic products by the French population. First part: frequency data. Food Chem Toxicol. 2015;78:159-69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2015.01.016
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2015.01.016
  • 25
    Wu XM, Bennett DH, Ritz B, Cassady DL, Lee K, Hertz-Picciotto I. Usage pattern of personal care products in California households. Food Chem Toxicol. 2010;48:3109-19. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2010.08.004
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2010.08.004
  • 26
    Lee PW, Elsaie ML, Jacob SE. Allergic contact dermatitis in children: common allergens and treatment: a review. Curr Opin Pediatr. 2009;21:491-8. https://doi.org/10.1097/MOP.0b013e32832d2008
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1097/MOP.0b013e32832d2008
  • 27
    de Waard-van der FB, Andersen KE, Darsow U, Mortz CG, Orton D, Worm M, et al. Allergic contact dermatitis in children: which factors are relevant? (review of the literature). Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2013;24:321-9. https://doi.org/10.1111/pai.12043
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/pai.12043
  • 28
    Pham AK, Dinulos JG. Cosmeceuticals for children: should you care? Curr Opin Pediatr. 2014;26:446-51. https://doi.org/10.1097/MOP.0000000000000105
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1097/MOP.0000000000000105
  • 29
    Belloni Fortina A, Fontana E, Peserico A. Contact sensitization in children: a retrospective study of 2,614 children from a Single Center. Pediatr Dermatol. 2016;33:399-404. https://doi.org/10.1111/pde.12873
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/pde.12873
  • 30
    Lazzarini R, Rangel MG, Hafner MF. Evaluation of the presence of allergens in children’s products available for sale in a big city. An Bras Dermatol. 2018;93:457-9. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20187111
    » https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20187111

Funding

  • Scientific initiation scholarship - Institutional Program for Scientific Initiation Scholarships (Programa Institucional de Bolsas de Iniciação Científica - PIBIC) - from the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico - CNPq) for Thayane Guimarães de Melo.

Publication Dates

  • Publication in this collection
    08 May 2020
  • Date of issue
    2020

History

  • Received
    16 Oct 2018
  • Accepted
    18 Jan 2019
  • Published
    24 Apr 2020
Sociedade de Pediatria de São Paulo R. Maria Figueiredo, 595 - 10o andar, 04002-003 São Paulo - SP - Brasil, Tel./Fax: (11 55) 3284-0308; 3289-9809; 3284-0051 - São Paulo - SP - Brazil
E-mail: rpp@spsp.org.br