Lawmaker Calls for Enhanced Education on Cosmetics for Youth

Lin Yueh-chin, a legislator from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has urged for improved educational initiatives regarding cosmetics use among teenagers in Taiwan. This call comes in light of rising concerns over the safety of makeup products, particularly after the detection of the carcinogenic substance known as Sudan red dye in certain cosmetics. The Ministry of Health and Welfare swiftly intervened, removing these products from stores in late September 2023.

During a joint news conference held by DPP lawmakers and the Taiwan Tao Zhan Civil Empowering Association, a survey was presented highlighting the prevalence of makeup among adolescents. Approximately 68 percent of respondents stated they use cosmetics, with a striking 80 percent of these users being high school or vocational students. Alarmingly, about half of elementary school students reported having experimented with makeup, indicating that the trend starts at a young age, typically between 8 and 13 years. Notably, 11.5 percent of those surveyed indicated they were exposed to makeup before the age of seven.

With this shift towards earlier makeup use, Lin emphasized the necessity for comprehensive education on cosmetics. She noted that while children are beginning to use makeup at younger ages, the information available regarding product safety is often unclear. Lin highlighted the role of schools and the cosmetics industry in failing to provide adequate guidance on this topic.

Lai Hui-yuan, another DPP legislator, pointed out that using makeup for special occasions is common in many cultures, particularly among teenagers. The influence of K-pop culture has further contributed to the rising usage of cosmetics among Taiwanese youth. Lai stressed the importance of equipping children with knowledge to protect their health as they navigate this growing trend.

At the conference, Tsou Hsin-yu, an elementary school teacher and honorary president of the association, shared insights from the survey, revealing that more than half of the respondents supported the introduction of courses on cosmetics usage. Tsou proposed that the government should publish a cosmetics guide in accessible language and collaborate with experts and retailers to enhance understanding among young consumers.

The issue of body image and cosmetics was further illustrated by eighth-grade student representative Hsiao Yu-ju, who noted that some of her peers wear masks in class due to anxiety about their appearance. She expressed concerns over the safety of commercial cosmetics, especially for children. For instance, while salicylic acid is a common anti-acne ingredient in many beauty products, its suitability for children remains questionable despite compliance with safety standards for adults.

Hsiao advocated for the creation of a supportive environment where teenagers can learn to express themselves and use cosmetics responsibly. She highlighted the need for educational resources that empower youth to make informed choices about their appearance and overall health.

As discussions continue on the importance of cosmetics education, the health and well-being of Taiwan’s youth remain at the forefront of legislative efforts. The DPP’s initiative aims to foster a generation that not only understands the beauty industry but also prioritizes safety and self-acceptance.