Psychologists’ concerns about cosmetic treatments

On 16 February 2022, journalist Tijn Elferink published an article on Nu.nl exploring the psychology behind cosmetic injectable treatments. Do frequent video calls, such as Zoom and Skype, combined with filtered images on social media, influence the growing demand for injectables? Below is a selection of insights from the article.

Are psychologists concerned about cosmetic treatments?

The number of injectable treatments has increased significantly over the past two decades, rising from approximately 20,000 treatments annually to over 600,000 in 2022. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for treatments such as anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers has grown rapidly. In some areas, aesthetic clinics have become more visible on high streets.

How do psychologists interpret this trend? According to Tijn Elferink: “Psychologists have been concerned for some time about the webcam acting as a mirror.” However, there are also more nuanced perspectives. Behavioural psychologist Mattheis van Leeuwen explains: “Research suggests that some individuals with low mood may feel an improvement when frown lines are reduced.”

Growing dissatisfaction

Van Leeuwen, a behavioural psychologist at Radboud University, adds: “Overall, dissatisfaction appears to have increased since the pandemic, including dissatisfaction with appearance.” When individuals feel unhappy about their appearance, they may explore options such as cosmetic treatments. He also notes: “Using filters can imply that natural appearance is not sufficient. People often receive more positive feedback on enhanced images, such as smoother-looking skin. This highlights the importance of careful consideration. Research indicates that social feedback can influence decisions to change one’s appearance.”

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Wanting to resemble filtered images

Cosmetic dermatologist Elian Brenninkmeijer explains: “Social media can create the impression that others look better than they do in reality. Some patients bring in images from platforms such as Instagram and request similar results. However, outcomes vary and should always respect individual features and the natural ageing process.”

Both Brenninkmeijer and Van Leeuwen note that attitudes towards cosmetic treatments have become more open in recent years. Treatments such as anti-wrinkle injections are now more widely accepted, although it remains important to approach them with realistic expectations and professional guidance.

Read the full article on Nu.nl: https://www.nu.nl/gezondheid/6184446/psychologen-maken-zich-zorgen-over-de-webcam-als-spiegel.html