Do similar attitudes towards skincare and beauty chime with all ages, or is there a generational divide? A recent study by the Skin Health Alliance reveals that Gen Z may be feeling the pressure more than other generations.

The study, which surveyed adults of all ages, reported that 54 per cent feel the most self-conscious about their skin before the age of 25. The period of adolescence and young adulthood can be a difficult time and can be amplified by self-consciousness and skin issues. So, to better understand the experiences and priorities of young people, the Alliance surveyed people aged 18-26 to explore their biggest concerns, influences, and skin health priorities.

Sunbed use on the up

A surprising finding from the most recent survey was the popularity of sunbeds amongst young people. 60 per cent of respondents said they use sunbeds, with 25 per cent of those using them frequently. Although the reason behind this upwards trend isn’t entirely clear, social media appears to be a significant factor. Hashtags including #Sunbed and #Sunbeds have amassed over 100k posts and boast more than 900 million views, with content ranging from sunbed ‘hacks’ and tanning tips to dramatic before and after videos.

Even celebrities and influencers such as Kim Kardashian publicly share their sunbed use, potentially normalising or even glamourising their use to an impressionable audience. Additionally, Gen Z may have missed out on the majority of prominent public health campaigns warning of sunbed risks, as most were produced many years ago.

The power of social media

Social media's influence extends to skincare purchases, too. A huge 71 per cent of respondents said they are likely to purchase a skincare product if their favourite influencer recommended it, illustrating the power influencers hold over their followers’ choice.

Young people may look to social media and influencers for their skincare advice, and if someone popular is advocating for a certain product or behaviour, many young consumers may feel compelled to try it themselves. Social media is also shown to impact mental health and self-image.

Results from the Skin Health Alliance’s survey of all adults, revealed that 49 per cent of respondents stated they believe social media makes them feel worse about their skin and appearance. Among the 18-26 age group, the number escalated to 96 per cent, with respondents feeling that social media affects their self-confidence and mental wellbeing, with 66 per cent of those stating it impacts them significantly. Social media platforms can amplify skin and appearance insecurities as users are exposed to edited images, beauty filters and content that creates unrealistic expectations.

Sun and sustainability

Despite these concerns, the survey also revealed positive attitudes, particularly with young people’s approach to skin protection and environmental impact. 65 per cent of respondents reported that they often protect their skin with sunscreen, an important part of preventing premature ageing and skin cancer, while promoting skin health.

Young people are also mindful of sustainability and the impact of their skincare choices, with 85 per cent saying the environmental impact of skincare products is one of their top priorities, and 33 per cent of those people saying it is their number one priority.

Interest in injectables

When considering appearance, 59 per cent of young people stated they are interested in using injectables like botulinum toxin ('Botox') to stop the physical signs of ageing. According to a 2022 survey by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, nearly 75 per cent of facial plastic surgeons reported an increase in patients under 30 requesting cosmetic surgery or injectables. This reflects a growing trend of interest in ageing prevention.

Findings from a report by Business Insider found that people aged 40 to 54 made up 56 per cent of all botulinum toxin clients, but women between 20 and 39 also saw an 8 per cent increase. This is despite the fact that there is no scientific evidence that preventive botulinum toxin works to stop the development of fine lines and wrinkles.

Long-term lifestyle habits

The survey also highlighted lifestyle choices that can impact skin health such as smoking, vaping and drinking alcohol. Despite the visible impacts on the skin of these habits, including dullness, premature ageing and dryness, 66 per cent of those surveyed currently smoke, vape or drink. This highlights the importance of continued education around the long-term effects of these habits on both their skin and overall health.

The study highlighted that skin health goes beyond appearance. It is intrinsically linked to how young people feel about themselves and their sense of self. Through understanding and addressing skin-related concerns, we can work towards a healthier, more confident generation.