The US used to be the home of aesthetic treatments, but it seems demand in the UK is set to outstrip the US, according to a survey by the doctor booking website, RealSelf.
A survey of more than 1,000 UK residents aged over 18 years of age showed that 76% of people in the UK wanted to change something about their face or body compared with 80% in the US, but here, more people are considering taking action.
The survey showed 40% of Brits are considering a surgical or non-surgical cosmetic treatment in the next 12 months, while 37% of Americans are thinking of booking in.
Driving demand are the millennials with 62% of 18-34 year olds thinking about having a non-surgical treatment within the next 12 months compared to 28% of the 35+ age group.
Most desired improvement
The most desired improvement, according to the poll conducted by Harris Poll for RealSelf, was not Botox and fillers but cosmetic dentistry.
Some 43% of UK respondents wanted to improve their teeth with whitening, veneers or Invisalign, in comparison with the recognised home of the pearly whites, the US, where just 36% were interested in procedures for teeth.
This may in part show the UK is catching up with the US.
What’s driving the trend?
In both countries 43% of respondents to the online poll said their motivation was to improve their self-esteem and confidence:
UK |
US | |
Improve self-esteem/confidence |
43% |
43% |
To look as good as I feel |
35% |
34% |
Combat ageing |
22% |
20% |
To look younger |
22% |
23% |
Important events such as a milestone birthday or wedding were also cited as prime reasons for wanting procedures, along with divorce, starting a new job or a new relationship.
To view the complete report please visit www.realself.com/press