Almost Half of UK Women Say They Have Low Self Esteem

A recent independent survey by Teoxane, in collaboration with DRG Global, has shed light on the beauty and confidence landscape among UK women. The Teoxane Age of Wellness Report, which surveyed 2,500 respondents, reveals that 43% of UK women report low self-esteem, with 45% expressing a desire for greater confidence in their appearance. The study indicates a growing trend toward aesthetic treatments as a pathway to boosted self-image and self-esteem.

The report highlights the transformative impact of dermal fillers, with 74% of women who were previously hesitant to be in photographs now reporting increased confidence in front of the camera post-treatment. Further, 65% of women who once felt self-conscious experienced a notable boost in confidence after undergoing filler treatments. As Dr. Ashwin Soni from The Soni Clinic observes, many patients feel anxious about their appearance at significant life events, such as family weddings, and look to treatments to enhance their self-perception.

Dr. Christine Hall of Taktouk Clinic has noticed a shift in beauty priorities, with patients seeking natural-looking results that enhance skin quality, texture, and tone rather than opting for heavier makeup. “Patients are coming to me saying ‘I look tired’ or ‘I just feel like I look like I haven’t slept,’” Dr. Hall shares, noting a preference for treatments that subtly refresh the face without compromising natural facial expressions.

Teoxane’s report also identifies a trend among younger generations, particularly Gen Z, with over one-third of 18-25-year-olds expressing interest in future aesthetic treatments. This shift points to a future where non-invasive procedures are more widely accepted among younger people, driven by desires for minor, confidence-boosting enhancements.

Reflecting on the profound effects these treatments can have, Dr. Tahera Bhojani-Lynch shares her experience of witnessing life-changing transformations. “Instead of being unconfident, unable to make eye contact… they come in, they make eye contact, they smile at you, they say thank you… These are life-changing treatments,” she notes.