California lawmakers are currently reviewing a bill that would prohibit the sale of anti-aging skincare products to young children.
Assembly Bill 2491, advocated by Assembly member Alex Lee of San Jose, seeks to ban the sale of such products to children under 13. The bill successfully passed the Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials Committee last month and is scheduled for an appropriations hearing.
If approved, the legislation would become effective on Jan. 1, 2025. It specifically targets over-the-counter skincare and cosmetic items marketed for skin aging that contain ingredients like vitamin A and alpha hydroxy acids.
The main objective, supporters argue, is to prevent young children from being exposed to these potent substances, typically meant for older individuals with mature skin concerns.
The Personal Care Products Council, an industry group representing major companies like Sephora and Ulta, opposes the bill
The Personal Care Products Council, an industry group representing major companies like Sephora and Ulta, opposes the bill, deeming it impractical and suggesting it would be “largely impossible” to enforce.
They express concerns that the legislation could impact essential products such as sunscreens, moisturizers, and cleansers. The council asserts that its member companies already educate young consumers about using age-appropriate products and fear that excessive regulations could restrict access to safe skincare, potentially leading to unintended consequences.
Alongside prohibiting sales to children, the bill mandates stringent requirements for businesses in California, obligating them to verify the age of purchasers to ensure compliance, which could involve implementing identification or age-verification systems at the point of sale.
In an April press release, Lee emphasized the bill’s purpose, stating, “Kids don’t need anti-aging products, and AB 2491 will protect children and preteens from the potential harms of using products that may lead to short- or long-term skin challenges they wouldn’t otherwise have.”
If enacted, this legislation would mark a significant development, making California the first state to regulate the sale of anti-aging products to children, potentially setting a precedent for similar actions in other states.
