Girls as young as 12 are so obsessed with their appearance that they won't leave home without full make-up.
According to new research, more than half of 12 to 14-year-olds wear make-up most days and 17 per cent refuse to leave the house without make-up on.
The study also revealed that over 63 per cent of 12-14 year olds even go to bed with their make-up on at least once a week with 38 per cent of them simply 'forgetting to take it off' and 36 per cent leaving it on because they are 'too tired'.
And 70 per cent of mothers say they regularly hear their daughters complain about the condition of their skin.
Skincare experts warn that applying too much make-up at a young age not only worsens existing and immediate skin problems but can also have a detrimental effect on long-term skin health and condition.
A spokeswoman for Simple, which commissioned the research, said: "Applying too much make-up from as young as 12 years old without first using skincare products can cause sensitive skin to become dry and irritated.
"Skincare products such as face wash and cleanser help ensure that skin is clean and prevent build-up of spot-causing bacteria, while moisturisers are key for ensuring skin is hydrated and often contain SPF to protect against damaging UV rays."
She added: "The results of this research suggest that while good skin is clearly very important to young girls, they are caking on make-up to cover their imperfections which unfortunately, enters them into a vicious circle as this excessive use is actually creating more problems for themselves.
"Applying layers of make-up will only serve to block pores, create and harbour more bacteria and inevitably, lead to greater skincare problems as well as confidence and self-esteem issues.
"While most teenage girls recognise that they have sensitive skin, there seems to be a genuine lack of awareness and education among young girls on how to look after their skin's health today and protect it for years to come."
Does this research appal you?
More on Parentdish: