Children in England see frequent online ads for harmful products

Research for the children's commissioner found many 13–17-year-olds report seeing ads for weight-loss drugs, steroids and skin‑whitening products online; the government has opened a consultation on measures including a possible ban on social media for under‑16s.

Research for the children's commissioner for England found that many teenagers regularly encounter online advertising for weight‑loss drugs, steroids and skin‑whitening products. The study surveyed 2,000 young people aged 13 to 17. Young people reported seeing these products in social media posts, influencer content, creator advertising and gaming. The subject has gained attention as the government consults on possible policy changes to protect children online. Key findings: - 41% of 13–17-year-olds reported seeing prescription-only weight‑loss drugs online; 27% said they had seen potentially toxic skin‑whitening creams and 24% reported seeing steroids or other muscle-building drugs. - More than three-quarters of the 2,000 teenagers surveyed said exposure to these products had a negative effect on their self‑esteem. - The children's commissioner, Dame Rachel de Souza, said such appearance‑changing products are being normalised to children and urged that any measures include clear enforcement and attention to platform design. - The government has launched a national consultation on measures including a possible ban on social media for under‑16s and referenced the Online Safety Act and a related parental support campaign. Summary: The research indicates widespread exposure of teenagers to advertising for age-restricted or potentially unsafe appearance‑altering products, with many reporting harm to self‑esteem. The government has opened a consultation on possible measures, including a social media age limit, and officials say questions about enforcement and how changes would be applied remain under discussion.