Videoconferencing Dysmorphia: The Impact on Self-perception and Desire for Cosmetic Procedures

The authors sought to examine the association between the increased use of videoconferencing and image-enhancing software filters during the COVID-19 pandemic and the corresponding rise in interest in cosmetic procedures. We aimed to discern if heightened exposure to one's digital self-image correlates with a greater inclination toward cosmetic interventions.

In this cross-sectional questionnaire survey study, adult participants living in the United States were recruited on Amazon's Mechanical Turk platform. Self-reported demographic data, videoconferencing usage, related behaviors, and attitudes concerning cosmetic procedures were assessed. Questionnaire prompts allowed participants to express in a Likert scale format their levels of agreement with certain statements. Frequencies and proportions of responses to each questionnaire item were collected, categorized, and recoded for comparison and analysis. Chi-squared tests were performed to examine associations between questionnaire responses and demographic characteristics, while significant predictors of videoconferencing and image-enhancing filter options were explored via multivariable logistic regression models.

The majority of study participants (n=505, 505/545 = 92.7% completion rate) were 18 to 39 years old (80.1%), female (68.1%), and non-White (58.2%). Income levels varied, and 89.2 percent had completed college or graduate school. Videoconferencing was frequent, with 88.6 percent using it more than three days a week, and 68.1 percent using ";touch-up my appearance"; filters more than half the time. Videoconferencing influenced the desire for cosmetic procedures in 55.9 percent of participants, and 57.8 percent were influenced by filter use. Frequent self-viewing was reported by 67 percent, strongly associated with interest in cosmetic procedures. Significant predictors of filter use included higher income (OR 2.436, p<0.001) and frequent self-viewing behavior (OR 5.034, p<0.001). Notably, mask-wearing was associated with increased self-esteem (68.8%) and reduced desire for cosmetic procedures (67.4%) in frequent self-viewers.

Recall bias and the demographic composition of the study participant population may limit the generalizability of these self-reported responses.

The data reflect the emergence of what may be termed 'videoconferencing dysmorphia,' indicating a significant association between videoconferencing, the application of filters, and the heightened interest in cosmetic procedures among users. This study suggests that digital self-viewing behavior instigates a distinct self-awareness that may drive individuals toward considering cosmetic interventions. These insights are vital for dermatologists in understanding patient motivations, managing expectations, and fostering realistic treatment outcomes.