1 in 6 U.S. Parents Approve of Teen Laser Hair Removal and Other Cosmetic Procedures: Study

Synopsis

A recent study indicates that one in six parents in the U.S. supports teenagers undergoing non-surgical cosmetic procedures, including laser hair removal and chemical peels. However, opinions vary on age and valid reasons for such treatments.

Key Takeaways

16% of U.S. parents support teen cosmetic procedures.
Half of parents require a valid reason for treatments.
Social media influences teens' body image and insecurities.
Age opinions vary among parents regarding cosmetic procedures.
Parents should consider emotional health implications.

New Delhi, Feb 17 (NationPress) One in six parents in the United States supports their teenage children engaging in non-surgical cosmetic treatments like laser hair removal, chemical skin peels, teeth whitening, and dermal fillers, as revealed by a national study released on Monday.

The research conducted by the University of Michigan Health CS Mott Children’s Hospital indicates that over 16% of parents are in favor of allowing teenagers to undergo such aesthetic procedures for any reason, provided they have their guardians' consent.

However, half of the parents expressed support for these non-surgical procedures only if there is a legitimate reason behind the request. While 50% believe that the motivation should not be related to bullying regarding appearance, fewer than 40% consider enhancing mental health a valid justification.

“Parents appear torn about the conditions under which non-surgical cosmetic procedures may be appropriate for adolescents,” stated Mott Poll Co-Director and pediatrician Susan Woolford.

“Interestingly, comparable numbers of parents rated the desire of teenagers to look good for a special occasion equally valid as wanting procedures due to mental health issues or bullying,” Woolford noted.

The nationwide poll, based on feedback from 989 parents of children aged 13 to 17 surveyed in August 2024, suggests that the growing acceptance of these treatments may be linked to social media, which exposes teenagers to idealized images of bodies and faces, according to Woolford.

“Teenagers often feel insecure about their looks when comparing themselves to digitally altered images that depict an appearance likely unattainable naturally,” she explained. “This concern is heightened by the pressure to share their images online for validation.”

It is crucial for parents to assist teenagers in recognizing the distortions presented in the media while also discussing their motivations for wanting to alter their appearances, she added.

“If a teenager requests a non-surgical cosmetic procedure, parents need to consider the emotional and mental health ramifications,” she advised.

The survey also revealed differing parental opinions on the appropriate age for youths to access such services. More than half believe individuals should be 18 years or older, 27% think that ages 16-17 are acceptable, and 17% are fine with 15 years or younger.

However, nearly a third of parents feel that teenagers should not be allowed to undergo these procedures under any circumstances.