Millennials appear to be driving the UK’s interest in aesthetic procedures, according to a new survey of 1,030 UK adults over the age of 18.

The survey was conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of RealSelf, an online marketplace for individuals to learn and share experiences about cosmetic procedures and connect with providers. Of the 1,030 respondents, 862 (84%) admitted to having undergone cosmetic treatments or are considering them in the next 12 months.

The results suggested that 62% of adults aged 18-34 are considering non-surgical treatments in the next 12 months, compared to 28% aged over 35, while 44% of those under 34 are considering surgical treatments in the next year, compared with 14% aged 35 and over.

The 18-34 age group is also more likely to have had a non-surgical or surgical cosmetic treatment in the past (40%), compared to their older counterparts (14% aged 35+). According to the survey results, interest among men and women in the UK remains generally balanced, with only slightly more women (41%) than men (38%) considering a cosmetic treatment in the next year.

Miss Lara Devgan, RealSelf chief medical officer and US board-certified plastic surgeon, said of the data, “Younger generations are a key force behind the UK’s growing interest in cosmetic procedures, due to, in a large a part, the new technologies and treatment options that have made aesthetic treatments accessible to a wider audience.” She added, “Many millennials look at cosmetic enhancements as part of their larger self-care routine, not unlike going to the gym or taking care of their skin. They are more open to the idea that beauty is a feeling of confidence rather than a particular physical feature, and it can be unique and customised for every individual.”

Other notable survey results suggest that the top five non-surgical treatments under consideration are cosmetic dentistry (43%), laser hair removal (29%), facial skin treatments such as dermaplaning and microneedling (28%), dermal fillers (24%) and botulinum toxin (18%). The top five surgical treatments under consideration were abdominoplasty (31%), facelift (28%), liposuction (28%), chin or neck lift (23%) and breast augmentation (21%).

When asked about the reasoning why they have had or are thinking of having cosmetic work, 60% reported that life events influence their decisions, which is greater among men (70%) than women (51%). Work-related events were cited most often, with 23% influenced by the desire to appear youthful at work and/or looking for or starting a new job, followed by a milestone birthday (18%), upcoming vacation (18%), and starting dating or a new relationship (13%).

In regards to concerns for aesthetic treatments, 92% of respondents said they had at least one concern relating to cosmetic procedures, some of which included fear of complications/bad results (53%), paying for the procedure (48%), long term effects (33%) and finding the right provider (30%).

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