Yesterday, I had an older lady sitting on my treatment couch. As I was doing her anti wrinkle injections she looked at me and asked if I had had any treatments done myself. As always- I am very open with the treatments I have had - antiwrinkle injections, filler in my tear troughs - which have always been an area of insecurity for me, and cheeks - skinboosters and radiofrequency microneedling as well as the standard medical grade skincare at home. She looked at me and said - "You shouldn't have any treatments- you're too young."
Now for me, this was quite surprising, given I was literally actively injecting her face with the very same substances she was telling me not to have! So why is this? Why does this bias persist? In an era where self-expression and individuality are celebrated, why are aesthetic treatments shrouded in taboo?
The lack of registration and regulation in the UK for non-surgical procedures means we will never know the true figures of just how many non-surgical procedures are performed on an annual basis however there are an estimated 10 million procedures performed worldwide and this is projected to increase with the growing popularity of procedures like Botox, dermal fillers, and other non-surgical enhancements.
Lets look at some of the reasons these stigmas persist:
1. Unrealistic Beauty Standards:
One major factor contributing to the stigma surrounding facial aesthetic treatments is the perpetuation of unrealistic beauty standards. Social media, fashion magazines, and celebrity culture often showcase flawless faces, setting an unattainable benchmark for beauty. As a result, individuals may feel pressured to conform to these standards, fearing judgment or criticism if they choose to undergo aesthetic treatments.
2. Poor/ unnatural results
Distortion and a lack of respect for the natural anatomy resulting in "trout pout," "chipmunk cheeks" and "pillow face" has resulted in a distortion in the perception of fillers and often manifests as a bias against these treatments. When done well, these treatments should respect the natural anatomy to replenish volume lost with age or enhance facial features, not distort. These natural enhancements are often unnoticeable and thus it is the unnatural look commonly associated with non surgical treatments and the look most often commented on in the media where celebrities have had botched botox or filler treatments. .
3. Fear of Judgment:
Society's judgmental lens can be a powerful deterrent for those considering facial aesthetic treatments. The fear of being labeled as vain or superficial can discourage individuals from openly discussing or pursuing these procedures. There is a societal tendency to associate cosmetic enhancements with a lack of authenticity, making individuals hesitant to embrace their desire for self-improvement.
4. Misinformation and Stereotypes:
The prevalence of misinformation about facial aesthetic treatments contributes significantly to the perpetuation of taboos. Often, these procedures are misunderstood, leading to misconceptions about their safety, purpose, and outcomes. Stereotypes of frozen expressions or unnatural appearances further fuel the reluctance to openly discuss and consider these treatments as valid forms of self-care.
5. Ageism and Gender Bias:
Ageism and gender bias also play a role in the stigma surrounding facial aesthetic treatments. Society often associates these procedures with aging or a desire to conform to youthful standards, creating a bias against those seeking cosmetic enhancements. Additionally, women may face more scrutiny and judgment than men, as societal expectations regarding beauty standards tend to be more stringent for women.
6. Lack of Open Conversation:
The lack of open and honest conversations about facial aesthetic treatments contributes significantly to the persistence of the taboo. Creating a culture where individuals feel comfortable discussing their experiences and choices can help break down the barriers surrounding these procedures. Education and awareness can empower people to make informed decisions about their appearance without fear of judgment.
Conclusion:
As societal norms continue to evolve, it's essential to challenge and dismantle the lingering taboos surrounding facial aesthetic treatments. By fostering open conversations, dispelling myths, and promoting self-expression, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society. Embracing the idea that aesthetic treatments are a personal choice for self-improvement rather than succumbing to societal pressures is a step towards breaking free from the stigma and fostering a culture of acceptance and self-love.
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