TikTok is preparing to roll out a global ban on beauty filters for users under 18, addressing mounting concerns about their impact on teenagers’ mental health and self-esteem.
The restrictions, set to take effect in the coming weeks, will specifically target filters like “Bold Glamour,” which alter skin tone, lip size, and eye shapes with lifelike effects. However, filters designed for comedic purposes, such as those adding animal ears or distorting facial features, will remain accessible to younger users.
The decision follows findings from Internet Matters, an online safety organization, which revealed that beauty filters contribute to a “distorted worldview,” pushing idealized images that leave many teenagers, particularly girls, feeling inadequate about their natural appearance. Some teens reported feeling “ugly” when seeing their unfiltered selves after prolonged use of such filters.
Dr. Nikki Soo, TikTok’s Safety and Well-being Policy Lead for Europe, confirmed the changes, stating that the platform aims to "alleviate the social pressure on young users."
TikTok plans to use machine learning tools for effective age verification and to identify underage accounts. The platform already removes approximately 20 million accounts quarterly for age policy violations.
This move aligns with industry trends, as platforms like Roblox and Instagram implement their own measures to protect young users. Roblox recently restricted access to violent content for younger audiences, while Instagram introduced “teen accounts” with parental oversight features.
Advocacy groups emphasize the role of regulation in driving these changes. Andy Burrows, CEO of the Molly Rose Foundation, stressed the importance of stronger legislation, stating, "It is evident that platforms are only making these adjustments to adhere to forthcoming EU and UK regulations. This highlights the necessity for even more ambitious legislation to safeguard children online."
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