In today’s image-conscious world, teens are more exposed than ever to idealized beauty standards, thanks largely to social media. With influencers and celebrities flaunting flawless skin, sculpted features, and perfect teeth, it’s no surprise that adolescents might seek non-surgical cosmetic procedures to enhance their appearance.
Recent findings from a national poll conducted by the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital reveal that 1 in 6 parents support teens receiving aesthetic treatments like laser hair removal, chemical skin peels, teeth whitening, and dermal fillers with parental consent. However, opinions vary widely on what justifies these procedures and what age is appropriate for cosmetic enhancements.
Parental Perspectives on Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures
The nationally representative survey of 989 parents of children ages 13-17 found that:
- 16% of parents believe teens should be allowed to get non-surgical cosmetic procedures for any reason, provided they have parental consent.
- 50% of parents only support these treatments if they serve a ‘valid’ reason, though their definitions of ‘valid’ differ.
- Half of these parents do not believe bullying is justification for cosmetic procedures.
- Only 40% see mental health improvement as a legitimate reason for pursuing treatments.
- A third of parents are open to teens getting aesthetic procedures for special occasions.
Dr. Susan Woolford, a pediatrician and co-director of the Mott Poll, highlighted the parental dilemma, noting that many parents rated the validity of getting procedures for a special occasion on par with wanting them for mental health reasons or bullying. This suggests that while parents recognize the emotional impact of appearance, their views on intervention vary.
Why Are Teens Seeking Cosmetic Enhancements?
Teens today are growing up in an era where social validation is often tied to their online presence. Many feel pressured to look a certain way, influenced by airbrushed photos and edited videos that create unrealistic beauty standards.
Dr. Woolford warns, “Teens are susceptible to feeling insecure about their appearance when compared to digitally altered pictures depicting an appearance that is probably unattainable naturally.” The pressure to post “perfect” pictures on social media can fuel the desire to undergo aesthetic procedures, sometimes without fully understanding the risks.
This raises an important question for parents: Are teens seeking these procedures to feel more confident and comfortable in their skin, or are they hoping for external validation that may not materialize?
What Age Should Teens Be Allowed to Get Cosmetic Procedures?
The poll also revealed differing opinions about the appropriate age for youth to obtain cosmetic treatments:
- 54% of parents believe 18 or older is the right age.
- 27% think ages 16-17 is acceptable.
- 17% support procedures for teens 15 or younger.
- 30% of parents believe teens should never receive these procedures under any circumstances.
Clearly, there is no consensus on when, if ever, it is appropriate for a teen to undergo aesthetic treatments.
The Risks vs. Benefits of Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures
Although non-surgical cosmetic procedures may seem less invasive than plastic surgery, they still come with potential risks and complications. Parents expressed several concerns, including:
- Health and safety risks: Some procedures can cause scarring, burning, discoloration, infection, or allergic reactions.
- Regret and unrealistic expectations: Teens may later regret undergoing these treatments or develop a desire for more procedures over time.
- The lack of long-term research on the effects of some procedures in young people.
Despite their non-invasive nature, treatments like laser hair removal, chemical peels, and dermal fillers require skilled providers. Dr. Woolford emphasizes that parents should thoroughly research practitioners, ensuring they have proper credentials and follow stringent health and safety protocols.
Navigating the Decision: What Parents Should Consider
Before deciding whether to allow a teen to undergo a cosmetic procedure, parents should consider the following:
Understand Their Motivation
- Why does your teen want the procedure?
- Do they think it will improve their self-esteem or social standing?
- Are they being influenced by peers, social media, or bullying?
Weigh the Risks and Benefits
- What are the potential side effects or complications?
- Is the desired outcome realistic?
- Will the procedure need to be repeated regularly to maintain results?
Seek Professional Guidance
- Consult with a licensed dermatologist or medical professional about whether the procedure is safe and appropriate for your teen.
- Discuss the emotional and mental health aspects with a counselor if your teen’s self-esteem is a concern.
Set Realistic Expectations
- Talk to your teen about the fact that changing their appearance will not guarantee popularity or happiness.
- Ensure they understand that beauty ideals promoted on social media are often unrealistic and digitally altered.
Is Cosmetic Enhancement Right for Teens?
Deciding whether to allow a teen to undergo a non-surgical cosmetic procedure is a personal choice that requires careful consideration. While some parents believe these treatments can boost self-confidence, others worry about the psychological and physical risks involved.
At the end of the day, the key is open communication between parents and teens. Understanding why a teen wants a procedure, ensuring they have realistic expectations, and weighing the risks carefully can help families make informed decisions about aesthetic treatments.
As non-surgical cosmetic procedures become more popular among young people, it’s crucial for parents to navigate this trend with a balanced perspective—one that prioritizes both self-acceptance and informed decision-making over temporary beauty fixes.
