Chapter 1: Why do millennials perceive Gen Z as looking older?
Why are young people looking so old? Thanks for asking. If you're aged between 30 and 40, you're part of Generation Y, also known as the Millennials. You may have already said to yourself that the next generation, Gen Z, looks much older than their age. But how is this possible?
Millennials grew up amid the rise of the wellness industry and numerous public health campaigns that promoted healthy living. Think about the messaging around eating five fruits and vegetables a day, staying physically active and avoiding smoking. Not to mention, there was also a strong push for some protection awareness.
Consequently, millennials have largely embraced skincare routines and self-care habits that keep them looking youthful. You'd think Gen Z would follow in their footsteps and look even younger. But according to some experts, that's part of the problem.
Dermatologist Sabine Kazidem explains that this surge in skincare is leading to some young people using anti-wrinkle products too quickly, doing them more harm than good. If you start using active ingredients like retinol too early, she explains, you destroy the skin barrier, which leads to premature ageing of the skin.
The rise of cosmetic treatments among younger generations could also play a role. Dr. Ross Perry, quoted in the Daily Mail, notes that Botox, fillers and semi-permanent makeup procedures are becoming normalized among people as young as 20, creating an appearance that may look older. Social media's influence on beauty standards and a prevailing fear of aging may also be fueling this trend.
Are many Gen Zers really getting these procedures? Despite the headlines suggesting otherwise, most Gen Z members aren't undergoing cosmetic procedures. Aesthetician Alison Leiterle told Days that the trend appears widespread but is mainly seen amongst influencers and celebrities who can afford it. While skincare is popular, most Gen Z don't pursue aesthetic treatments.
Cultural theorist Professor Meredith Jones suggests that the perception of age is shifting. Older celebrities with cosmetic enhancements now look younger, creating a distorted standard. So instead of thinking that 40-year-old looks 20, we may perceive younger people with similar features as looking older.
Ultimately, there's no clear evidence that Gen Z looks older than past generations at the same age. Changing beauty norms and evolving age perceptions may be driving this belief, especially as Gen Z move closer to their 30s.
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Chapter 2: What role does the wellness industry play in youth appearance?
There you have it.
Now you know why young people are looking so old. In under three minutes, we answer your questions and help you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. Listen along and you really will know for sure.