WEB DESK: TikTok will soon block users under 18 from using beauty filters that alter their facial features, responding to concerns about their negative effects on teenagers’ mental health and self-esteem. The global ban is expected to roll out in the coming weeks.
Filters like “Bold Glamour,” which smooth skin, enhance lips, and change eye shapes, will no longer be accessible to teens. However, humorous filters, such as those adding animal ears or exaggerating facial features, will remain available.
A report by Internet Matters, an online safety group, found that these beauty filters promote unrealistic ideals. Many teens, particularly girls, felt pressured to match the enhanced images, with some describing their natural appearance as “ugly” after prolonged use.
TikTok’s Safety and Well-being Policy Lead for Europe Dr Nikki Soo said the new rules aim to reduce social pressure on young users and encourage healthier online habits.
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Stronger measures for age verification
TikTok plans to use machine learning tools to identify users misrepresenting their age and remove accounts violating its age policies. The platform already deletes 20 million accounts quarterly for such breaches.
The company also pledged to tighten restrictions for users under 13, including technology to detect accounts likely owned by younger children and sending them for moderation.
These changes follow a growing trend among platforms to protect young users. Roblox recently limited access to violent content for children, while Instagram introduced parental controls for teen accounts.
Advocacy groups have welcomed these steps but stress the need for stronger regulations. CEO of the Molly Rose Foundation Andy Burrows said, “Platforms are acting only to comply with upcoming laws. This highlights the need for even stricter legislation to protect children online.”
TikTok says it hopes to create a safer and more authentic space for all users.
