A study conducted by researchers at the Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine has revealed a significant correlation between social media usage and the desire for cosmetic procedures. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, involved 175 participants (both English and Spanish speakers) over the age of 18 years and assessed the impact of social media and the Covid-19 pandemic on the acceptance of cosmetic procedures.
Using information gathered between Oct. 2019 and June 2022, the researchers found that increased time spent on image-centric social media platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat is associated with a higher desire to undergo cosmetic procedures. This was particularly true for people who use filters and third-party photo editing applications.
The study reported that participants who followed and engaged with celebrities, influencers, and accounts showcasing cosmetic procedure results were more likely to express a desire for cosmetic enhancements.
The authors also noted the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, which significantly influenced the acceptance of cosmetic procedures. Post-pandemic, there was a notable increase in participants who thought about having a cosmetic procedure (86.4% post-pandemic vs. 63.8% pre-pandemic); discussed cosmetic procedures with professionals (67.9% post-pandemic vs. 43.6% pre-pandemic); and believed that cosmetic procedures would improve their self-esteem (77.8% post-pandemic vs. 47.9% pre-pandemic).
“One of the most significant findings was that many more people post-Covid had thought about having a cosmetic procedure done or had even discussed it with a dermatologist or a physician, and believed that doing so would help their self-esteem,” said Dr. Neelam Vashi told The Brink, a Boston University (BU) publication.
“Much of my research revolves around understanding the intricacies of beauty perception and what defines beauty standards,” said Dr. Vashi, an associate professor of dermatology at BU and one of the authors of the study. “In the logic of social media, the use of filters has completely changed our perception of beauty and what can be achieved.”
The study also reports Zoom dysmorphia, a phenomenon that emerged during the pandemic, is associated with increased video call usage leading to higher acceptance of cosmetic surgery. This is attributed to prolonged exposure to distorted self-images on front-facing cameras, she said.
Remote work and recovery during the pandemic were also factors, Dr. Vashi said, which permitted those who had undergone procedures to recover quietly at home without taking time off from their job.
Overall, the findings suggest that social media usage and photo editing applications contribute significantly to the desire for cosmetic procedures. As social media continues to play a pivotal role in shaping body perception, it is crucial for medical professionals to discussing social media usage with patients to understand their motivations and manage their expectations, the researchers said.
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