A new survey by the Skin Health Alliance, the world’s leading skin health accreditation body, has revealed the top skin concerns of the younger generations.
In a study that surveyed adults of all ages, 54% revealed they felt the most self-conscious about their skin before the age of 25. To better understand the experiences and priorities of young people, the Skin Health Alliance recently surveyed people aged 18-26 to explore their biggest concerns, influences, and skin health priorities.
The recent survey had some surprising findings, particularly regarding the use of sunbeds amongst younger people. Out of those surveyed, 60% of people said they use sunbeds, with 25% of those using them frequently.
Social media appears to be a significant factor in the rising sunbed trend, with hashtags like #Sunbed and #Sunbeds amassing over 100k posts and more than 900 millions views. Content ranges from sunbed ‘hacks’ and tanning tips to before and after videos. Sunbed use is also normalised and glamourised by those publicly sharing their sunbed use online, including influencers and celebrities. 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 influence of social media extends to skin care as well, with a huge 71% of respondents saying that they are likely to purchase a skincare product if their favourite influencer has recommended it.
Social media has been shown to impact mental health and self-image, with results from the Skin Health Alliance’s survey showing that 49% of all adults believing 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.
Despite these concerns, the survey also revealed positive attitudes, particularly with young people’s approach to skin protection and environmental impact, with 65% of respondents reporting that they often protect their skin with sunscreen, an important part of preventing premature ageing and skin cancer whilst promoting skin health. The younger generations are also mindful of sustainability and the impact of their skincare choices with 85% saying the environmental impact of skincare products is one of their top priorities and 33% of those people saying it is their number one priority.
When considering appearance, 59% of young people stated they are interested in using injectables like botox to stop the physical signs of ageing, despite the fact that there is no scientific evidence that preventive botox works to stop the development of fine lines and wrinkles.
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.
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 and more confident generation.
