In recent years, the market for aesthetics procedures has shifted dramatically. Previously, aesthetic treatments were the realm of an older generation, looking to regain a more youthful appearance. However, this is no longer strictly the case, with more and more young people opting to alter their appearance in the quest for beauty. The rise of social media and celebrity culture has normalised a very specific, idealised appearance: plump-lipped, round-cheeked, and strong jawed.
Aesthetics and Self-Confidence
Whilst there is certainly nothing wrong with seeking to correct aesthetic insecurities that may be affecting your self-confidence, for many, the rise in young people, particularly women, looking to adjust their appearance is shocking. Whilst undergoing aesthetic procedures may help some feel more confident in their looks, unfortunately, it has a detrimental effect on others, who may feel pressured into similarly seeking treatment. Such is the popularity of treatments such as Botox® and dermal fillers in younger patients, the organisers of the Miss England beauty pageant have spoken out on the influx of young entrants who have undergone such procedures in order to progress through the competition.
Championing Natural Beauty
In response to these aesthetic trends, the Miss England organisers have expressed their shock at the situation, and added a new round to the proceeding. In the new round, contestants are required to bare their face and go completely makeup-free, promoting body positivity and natural beauty. Responding to criticism that, like social media pressures, the Miss England pageant sets an unhealthy standard of beauty and criticising the bodies of young women, entrants to 2019s contest were required to submit a photograph of themselves, sans makeup, filters, or editing. In an attempt to curb the number of young women who turn to cosmetic enhancement, the winner of the bare-faced round will be awarded a place in the top 20 contestants, fast-tracking through the competition process.
Speaking about these changes, Miss England director Angie Beasley said: “Recently we have been shocked to see Miss England contestants as young as 19 undergoing lip filler treatments and even Botox, and so many entering with full faces of thick makeup covering their natural beauty. We tell the girls they don’t need fillers, fake eyelashes and tattooed brows to enter our contest, but it just shows what a damaging effect edited social media images can have on young women’s self-esteem and mental health.
At Kendrick PR, we believe that whilst the aesthetic industry can do wonders, all practitioners have a duty of care to their patients. The importance of body dysmorphia training, proper consultations and medical redress is vital to raising standards and securing safe and effective procedures for all patients.
For more information about how we work with the top aesthetic brands and practitioners, or if youre looking to discuss PR representation, please dont hesitate to get in touch.