The Gender-Specific Dynamics of Charismaphobia in Relation to Body-Esteem and Self-Esteem: Implications for Cosmetic and Psycho-Dermatology

Background: Humans have engaged in various beliefs, attitudes, actions, and medical procedures to enhance their physical attractiveness. This pursuit has led to several psychodermatological disorders, including charismaphobia, which is the fear of becoming unattractive. Objectives: Offering fresh perspectives to mental health practitioners and cosmetic dermatologists, the current study addresses a significant gap in knowledge by exploring the gender-specific dynamics of charismaphobia in relation to body esteem and self-esteem. Methods: The survey involved 879 conveniently selected participants, including both men (n = 261) and women (n = 618). The Charismaphobia Scale, Body-Esteem Scale, and Self-Esteem Scale were used, along with a demographic information questionnaire. Results: Women exhibited significantly higher levels of charismaphobia compared to men (Men = 52.53%; Women = 68.04%; P = 0.000; Cohen’s d = 0.710). Conversely, men demonstrated significantly greater body-esteem (Men = 80.03%; Women = 70.37%; P = 0.000; Cohen’s d = 1.040) and self-esteem (Men = 68.85%; Women = 53.69%; P = 0.000; Cohen’s d = 0.985) compared to women. A significant inverse correlation was identified between charismaphobia and both body-esteem (r = -.329; P < 0.01) and self-esteem (r = -.608; P < 0.01). In both men and women, self-esteem had a stronger impact on charismaphobia than vice versa (P < 0.01). The findings affirmed the greater relevance of self-esteem in influencing charismaphobia compared to body-esteem (P < 0.01). Conclusions: The current study highlights the unfair pressure placed on women to meet societal standards of beauty, explaining why charismaphobia is gender-specific. The study recommends embracing one's multifaceted identity, beyond physical appearance, to cultivate robust self-esteem and avoid the detrimental effects of charismaphobia. It emphasizes the fundamental roles of self-esteem and body-esteem in this process.