Nearly three-quarters of people aged 18-26 are influenced to buy skincare products by social media, according to a new study.
A recent study by skin health accreditation body Skin Health Alliance surveyed adults aged 18-26 to uncover their lifestyle habits and influences on their skincare decisions.
The results shed light on the growing impact of social media, the rise in sunbed use and a focus on sustainability among Gen Z.
Social media’s role in skincare and self-image
The survey revealed the influence of social media on skincare purchases, with 71% of respondents saying they would buy a product recommended by their favourite influencer.
Social media is also shown to impact mental health and self-image. In the results from the Skin Health Alliance’s survey of all adults, 49% 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% of respondents feeling that social media affects their self-confidence and mental wellbeing with 66% of those stating it impacts them significantly.
Social media drives sunbed use among Gen Z
60% of young people reported using sunbeds, with 25% stating they use them frequently.
Social media appears to play a significant role, with hashtags like #Sunbed and #Sunbeds amassing over 100k posts and 900 million views, often showcasing tanning hacks and dramatic transformations.
Celebrity endorsements, such as Kim Kardashian’s public use of sunbeds, may further normalise this trend.
Many Gen Z individuals may also lack awareness of the risks associated UV exposure, as they missed earlier public health campaigns addressing the dangers.
Positive trends: sunscreen use and sustainability
Despite the challenges, young people are prioritising skin health and environmental impact.
The study found that:
- 65% frequently use sunscreen, protecting their skin from premature ageing and skin cancer
- 85% consider the environmental impact of skincare products, with 33% ranking it as their top concern
These findings reflect a shift towards more informed and sustainable skincare choices.
Preventative Botox and aesthetics trends
Interest in preventative Botox and other injectables is growing among young people, with 59% expressing interest in these treatments.
According to a 2022 survey by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, nearly 75% 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% of all Botox clients but women between 20 and 39 also saw an 8% increase.
Lifestyle habits impacting skin health
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, such as dullness, premature ageing and dryness, 66% 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.
