The world is image-obsessed and we are all looking for that magical elixir that will fix our flaws and turn back the clock. We spend huge amounts on lotions and potions that all promise the earth but ultimately leave us disappointed. An ever-increasing number of people are turning to cosmetic aesthetic treatments and enhancements to improve, enhance and tweak their appearance for many reasons. It really isn’t the domain of the vain anymore as it becomes increasingly common in daily life. In the last decade alone, the cosmetic aesthetic industry has undergone a makeover itself. What was once seen as radical has now become commonplace. The notion of “getting work done” has gained social acceptance and is openly talked about.
One recent study found that 40 percent of U.K. adults are considering a surgical or nonsurgical cosmetic treatment in the next 12 months1. Interestingly, Millennials seem to be driving the high interest in these procedures. Nearly two-thirds of adults 18-34 are considering nonsurgical treatments in the next 12 months (vs. 28 percent aged 35+). This is particularly surprising as many of these treatments have been traditionally used as anti-ageing/rejuvenation procedures whereas it appears there is more of an emphasis on preventative treatments and ‘tweaking’ the features to achieve a particular look.
The number one motivator for people remains gaining confidence. The urge to improve your self-esteem/confidence with various treatments remains the prime driving factor no matter your age group. Looking younger or combating ageing doesn’t come anywhere near as high in the polls as to the reasons we get work done.
Life events also influence people to pursue cosmetic work with three in five (60 percent) of those surveyed who have had a cosmetic treatment or are considering one in the next 12 months reporting a life event influenced their decision. This varies from a milestone birthday to relationship change or even the kids finally leaving home and giving you more time to yourself! Even the workplace has an influence as many seek treatments to appear more youthful or energised in the office.
What is clear is that nowadays aesthetic treatments aren’t just about turning back the clock, they’re not just for women, and they are certainly not just for the over 50’s.
1. RealSelf UK Aesthetics Survey. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xh0x0ar-PW_fSGcJDr3vUBBi58FGnVSm/view