HQ Team
February 17, 2025: A recent U.S. national poll indicates that 1 in 6 parents support their teens undergoing non-surgical cosmetic procedures with parental approval. The University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health surveyed 989 parents of children ages 13-17 in August 2024. Half of the parents surveyed only support these procedures if there is a valid reason, but what constitutes “valid” remains a point of contention.
According to the poll, appearance-based bullying isn’t enough of a justification to get a procedure done. Only 40% of parents believe that improved mental health is a sufficient reason. Procedures like laser hair removal, chemical skin peels, and dental work found more acceptance among nearly a third of the interviewed parents.
Mott Poll Co-Director and Mott pediatrician, Dr. Susan Woolford, notes that parents are conflicted about the circumstances in which non-surgical cosmetic procedures are appropriate for teens. She also stated that a teen wanting to look good for a special occasion was on par with wanting the procedures due to mental health or bullying.
Parental opinions varied regarding the appropriate age for teens to undergo such procedures. Over half believed 18 or older was appropriate, 27% said 16-17 was old enough, and 17% found 15 or younger acceptable. Nearly a third of parents did not consider any procedures appropriate for teens under any circumstances.
Digital dystopia
The researchers highlighted social media’s influence on teens’ desires to alter their appearance. Dr. Woolford explains that teens are susceptible to insecurity due to digitally altered images on social media, which is exacerbated by the pressure to post pictures for validation. “Teens are susceptible to feeling insecure about their appearance when compared to digitally altered pictures depicting an appearance that is probably unattainable naturally,” Woolford said.
She recommends parents explore all reasons and available resources before deciding on any major procedure. Parents should consider the emotional and mental health implications if a teen asks for a non-surgical cosmetic procedure. It is important to understand how teens perceive the impact of these procedures on their appearance and life, as some may see them as a quick fix for popularity or friendship, which is not guaranteed.
Due diligence on procedures
While 40% of parents, more mothers than fathers, know someone who has had a non-surgical cosmetic procedure, only 7% of parents of teen girls and 1% of parents of teen boys report their teen has inquired about such procedures. Some parents worry about the medical implications and the potential for future procedures. Thorough research into the risks and benefits, consulting with health professionals, and seeking experienced cosmetic providers are essential. Teens should be informed about potential side effects, including scarring, burning, discolouration, or infection.
According to the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons , in 2020, nearly 230,000 cosmetic surgeries and nearly 140,000 non-invasive cosmetic procedures were performed on teens ages 13-19. Some of the most common types of plastic surgery teens choose include nose jobs and correction of protruding ears and scarring caused by acne or injuries. A lot of procedures go unreported, though, including those performed in dermatology offices and spas.
