Children should not wear makeup: officials

The Korea Food and Drug Administration asks that children refrain from wearing makeup because some substances can trigger skin troubles at a very early age.

“Children tend to have more vulnerable skin than grownups. Their skin also absorbs makeup materials more than that of grownups. Therefore, itchiness, rash and some other dermatological troubles may occur,” said Kim Young-ok, a KFDA official.

The agency also said children should refrain from having manicures. Instead, they should wear sunscreen when outdoors and refrain from makeup around the eyes, it said.

“If they need to wear makeup, always make sure they are thoroughly cleansed at the end of the day,” Kim said.

The KFDA has designated special makeup items for those younger than 3. They range from shampoo, conditioner, lotion and cream to cleansers and bathing goods.