Patient perception of beauty on social media: Professional and bioethical obligations in esthetics

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020 May;19(5):1129-1130. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13118. Epub 2019 Aug 24.

Abstract

Recently, social media use has skyrocketed, especially with millennials. The use of filtered images and photo editing has led to a new trend of social media-induced dissatisfaction with appearance, termed "snapchat dysmorphia" and "selfie dysmorphia". It is important for practitioners to recognize and understand this trend in addition to knowing how to manage these patients. As clinicians, we have bioethical and professional obligations to educate ourselves on new and relevant trends, ensure adequate patient safety, and advocate for continued consumer education.

Keywords: consultations; dermatology; internet; skin aging; social media.

MeSH terms

  • Beauty*
  • Bioethical Issues
  • Body Dysmorphic Disorders / etiology
  • Body Dysmorphic Disorders / prevention & control*
  • Body Dysmorphic Disorders / psychology
  • Body Image / psychology
  • Ethics, Medical*
  • Humans
  • Patient Education as Topic / ethics
  • Patient Education as Topic / methods
  • Patient Safety
  • Social Media / ethics*
  • Surgery, Plastic / ethics*