A new survey shows that 60 percent of young women have considered cosmetic procedures such as Botox, fillers, or surgery. However, around 36 percent ultimately do not go through with such procedures, citing high costs or worries about the long-term impacts.
The findings come from the EenVandaag Youth Panel in collaboration with Spuiten & Slikken, based on responses from more than 1,700 people aged 18 to 34. Cosmetic and plastic procedures in the study included interventions done solely to change appearance, such as Botox, fillers, breast augmentation, and hair implants. Permanent hair removal and makeup were not included.
The share of young women who have considered such procedures has risen sharply, from 40 percent four years ago to 60 percent now. Among women who have seriously considered undergoing a cosmetic procedure, 24 percent are still planning to do so or have already done it. Among young men, 9 percent say the same.
The survey also found significant dissatisfaction with appearance. About 34 percent of young women and 23 percent of young men say they are currently unhappy with how they look. Weight is the most common concern across both groups. However, while women more often cite skin issues, men more often cite lack of muscle or hair loss.
Beliefs about appearance and life outcomes also differ. About 21 percent of young men believe that without being attractive, it is not possible to get into a relationship, compared with 10 percent of young women.
Despite high consideration rates, many do not take action. About 36 percent of women who considered cosmetic procedures ultimately decided against them, citing costs, concerns about long-term effects, or concluding it was not necessary.
Temporary treatments are also common. About 15 percent of young women reported having had procedures such as Botox or fillers.
Attitudes remain divided but lean negative overall. About 62 percent of young people say they view cosmetic procedures mostly negatively, often arguing that “you should not cut into a healthy body.” Others said procedures can reduce authenticity or lead to exaggerated results, with one participant saying, “Give me a distinctive face with a story rather than the perfect picture.”
At the same time, 25 percent view cosmetic procedures more positively, emphasizing personal choice and the need to feel confident about their looks. One respondent said, “It is not a problem to use a tool that can help you become more confident.” Another added, “Before, I was not in favor and thought you should accept yourself as you are. But it is not wrong to use a tool that can help you with that.”
The study also examined the online trend “looksmaxxing,” which has gained attention this year. It involves sharing advice on appearance improvement, ranging from exercise, dieting, and skincare to extreme and misleading claims about altering facial structure.
These include “mewing,” described as holding the tongue in a specific position to influence jaw shape, and “bonesmashing,” which involves deliberately fracturing cheekbones in hopes they heal in a more angular form. The trend is reported to be especially common among young men. However, only 3 percent of respondents said they actively engage in looksmaxxing, while 9 percent said they know someone who does.
Participants in the study also raised concerns about potential harm and the influence of online communities, including overlap with so-called “manosphere” spaces that some say expose insecure young men to misogynistic ideas.
One participant said, “I was involved with it around age sixteen. I was pulled into it through social media and because I was very insecure.” He added, “After two months in the community and on forums, I kind of came to my senses and thought: what the f*** am I doing?”