Who decides? Intergenerational perception of adolescents' personal care products purchase and consumption

This study explores intergenerational differences in the perception of adolescents' (ages 12–17) use of personal care products and related purchasing decisions. An online survey of 1088 parent–child dyads (n = 2176) was conducted, and paired samples t-tests were used. Results show minors report higher usage—especially of gym and fitness items—than parents acknowledge. Adolescents also perceive more parental supervision than parents report. Parents set stricter age limits for purchasing items like makeup and supplements and express greater concern over risks. These findings reveal perception gaps that may inform educational and regulatory approaches to adolescent consumption.