An anthropological study of the perception of the aesthetical, dermatological and psychological consequences of skin aging and the change of appearance

Abstract

Background

Each person "experiences" the change in appearance due to skin aging in a different way, more or less positively, negatively, passively or actively. Since the perception of skin aging has individual and cultural variables, this study aims to explore (1) the perception of changes in appearance linked to skin aging and the correspondence between real and perceived age and its link with personality; and (2) the relationship with invasive and non-invasive aesthetic procedures and the level of information regarding these dermatological and medical practices.

Methodology

A semi-structured online survey of 15 questions was conducted. 1,303 total responses were collected from respondents representing 54 countries and reflecting the 5 sociological age groups (Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Baby boomers, the Silent generation) with a sex repartition of 60% women, 40% men and 3 non-binary persons.

Results

The results indicate that the majority (55%) of participants in all age groups believe that their skin begins to age between 21 and 30 years of age and that wrinkles are the first sign of age (675/1303). A significant number of respondents in Asia (31%), South America (22%), and South-East Asia (21%) selected ages under 21 years of age as appropriate for beginning aesthetic procedures; while this proportion was lower in North America (19%) and Western Europe (13%), and significantly low in the Middle East (7%) and Eastern Europe (6%). We found a 58% correspondence between real age and perceived age of the skin for both men and women; with 33% estimating that their skin looks younger, and 85% considering that their skin reflects their personality. 48% of the respondents do not use aesthetic procedures.

Conclusion

The skin is a very specific organ; due to its social role, each person must deal with their “social skin” throughout their life. The social pressure of appearance is present at all ages, even in adolescence with the additional pressure of social media. This coupled with our increasing life span, accentuates the challenge to preserve beauty capital as much as possible, using every available cosmetic and aesthetic solution, as long as it is carried out ethically by qualified professionals with respect for our personalities.