Chasing youth: why South Africans are swapping wrinkles for Botox
With award season upon us, social media is buzzing with speculation about celebrities who have had "work" done.
Is their age defying appearance a result of good genes, meticulous skincare, skilled surgical enhancements or simply ageing gracefully like fine wine?
The pursuit of eternal youth is no longer just a Hollywood obsession-it's a growing global trend, and South Africa is no exception.
From subtle Botox injections to full-blown facelifts, more and more people in their 60s and 70s are choosing to fight back against Father Time.
But why? What fuels this resistance to natural ageing?
Why do people fear ageing?
Ageing has historically been seen as a natural part of life, a milestone of wisdom and experience.
The fact that youth is glorified in today's world, and social media filters create an illusion of perfection, makes growing old feel less like an accomplishment and more like something that needs to be "fixed".
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To delve deeper into this phenomenon, Lifestyle reached out to Melissa Smith, a registered counsellor with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.
She identifies several psychological, social, and emotional factors that contribute to the fear of ageing, including:
- Loss of independence.
- Fear of death and the unknown.
- Loss of identity and purpose.
- Societal views equating youth with productivity and relevance.
- Social isolation and loneliness.
- Regret and unfulfilled goals.
- Cultural attitudes towards ageing.
Ageing is frequently linked to declining physical abilities and cognitive functions, leading to existential anxiety and a perceived loss of purpose.
Moreover, many older adults grapple with feelings of invisibility, as society often correlates youth with vitality and productivity.
This combination of factors creates a pressure cooker environment in which the allure of cosmetic enhancements can prove irresistible.
Career longevity and ageism
In an increasingly competitive job market, where youthful energy is often equated with capability, many professionals over 50 feel the pressure to maintain a youthful appearance to stay relevant.
According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), non-surgical cosmetic procedures have surged in popularity globally, with Botox, fillers, and skin-tightening treatments leading the charge.
The science of staying young
Dr Anthony Youn, known as America’s holistic plastic surgeon, has become a social media sensation for his expert breakdowns of celebrity transformations.
He highlights how a mix of lifestyle choices, cosmetic treatments, and advanced skincare can create the illusion of eternal youth.
Among the latest innovations are:
Morpheus8 radiofrequency microneedling treatment that tightens skin and improves texture.
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Therapy: Removes age spots and sun damage.
Ozempic and anti-inflammatory diets: Originally developed for diabetes, Ozempic has gained traction as a weight-loss drug, contributing to a leaner, more youthful look.
Fillers and Botox: These remain the cornerstone of non-invasive anti-ageing, smoothing wrinkles and restoring lost volume.
Dr David Shokrian, a renowned plastic surgeon from Millennial Plastic Surgery in NYC, notes that the best work is subtle and natural-looking.
Good aesthetic plastic surgery is meant to look healthy, not exaggerated, he explains.
In the past, plastic surgery was almost synonymous with extreme facelifts, frozen expressions, and overly plumped lips.
Today’s advancements, however, focus on minimally invasive, refined techniques that enhance rather than alter.
Take Jennifer Lopez, for example. She credits her age-defying looks to discipline and skincare, but subtle interventions like Botox, fillers, and body contouring could be at play.
Similarly, speculations around Ariana Grande suggest brow lifts, buccal fat removal, and jaw sculpting all procedures that subtly enhance features without drastically changing appearances.
Even weight loss can influence cosmetic choices. Post Malone's transformation has led experts to speculate whether Ozempic or surgical interventions played a role in tightening excess skin.
While the stigma around plastic surgery has eased, many still prefer subtle tweaks over drastic transformations. The goal? To look "well-rested" rather than "worked on".
Despite the advancements in cosmetic procedures, there are downsides to chasing eternal youth. Excessive use can lead to the infamous pillow face or frozen expressions.
The pursuit of perfection can become psychologically addictive, leading to body dysmorphia.
While non-invasive, repeated procedures can affect skin elasticity and nerve function over time.
The decision to age naturally or seek cosmetic interventions is deeply personal. For some, it’s about confidence and self-care, for others, it’s a response to societal expectations.
Shokrian reminds us that good cosmetic surgery should enhance, not erase and that there’s no shame in wanting to look your best. However, the key is balance knowing when to stop and embracing the beauty of natural ageing.
Would you consider a cosmetic tweak or do you prefer to let nature take its course?