How Perceptions of Beauty Change Over Time

What makes us feel beautiful? Is it the shape of our body, the tone of our skin, or the glow on our face? More importantly—how do our ideas of beauty change as we age?

These are the kinds of questions that inspired the Beauty for Life survey, a comprehensive research project jointly sponsored by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). The survey was designed to help plastic surgeons better understand their patients’ concerns, motivations, and beauty ideals across different stages of life.

According to ASAPS President Dr. Renato Saltz, the goal was to uncover “what patients are most concerned about at different stages of their lives.” The survey results provide unique insight into how generational priorities shift—and how beauty truly is a lifelong journey.

Beauty in Your 20s, 30s, and 40s: What Matters Most?

The survey categorized participants by age group to observe the evolution of beauty perception over time. It also compared what people found attractive in others versus what they were concerned about in themselves.

One of the most surprising findings? While younger adults found a “fit, well-proportioned body” the most attractive in others, their primary concern about themselves was their facial appearance.

Let’s take a closer look at what each age group prioritized:

In Your 20s

Most focused on facial appearance, such as acne, skin texture, and symmetry
Interested in early prevention through skincare routines and non-surgical treatments
Motivated by the desire to boost self-confidence and attract partners

In Your 30s

Facial concerns remain, but abdomen and hips grow in priority—especially after childbirth
More likely to consider body contouring or mommy makeover procedures
Career and family responsibilities heighten the desire to look refreshed and energized

In Your 40s

Start noticing signs of aging, especially in the face and neck
Begin exploring non-invasive facial rejuvenation like BOTOX®, fillers, or even facelifts
Many cite the desire to maintain a youthful look for both social and professional reasons

The full Beauty for Life survey also covered other generations and trends, but it’s clear that as we age, our self-image adapts—along with our strategies to maintain it.

You can view the full survey PDF here:
Beauty for Life Survey (PDF)

Why Do People Strive to Look Good?

The motivations behind aesthetic enhancement are more than just skin-deep. When asked why they wanted to maintain or improve their appearance, participants across all age groups consistently mentioned:

Self-confidence
Forming friendships
Attracting romantic partners
Improving career prospects

Interestingly, it wasn’t just about vanity. The desire to look good was tied to deeper emotional and social connections. When you feel attractive, you tend to engage more confidently in your personal and professional life.

And while diet, exercise, and skincare remained essential lifestyle components, cosmetic procedures were also viewed as viable tools to help achieve appearance goals at any stage in life.

Cosmetic Procedures: A Lifelong Tool for Self-Improvement

As the survey data shows, people of all ages consider cosmetic surgery and non-surgical treatments a natural part of their beauty routine.

Here are a few procedures that align with different stages of life:

20s to Early 30s

Preventive BOTOX®
Dermal fillers for early volume loss
Laser treatments for acne scars or pigmentation
Breast augmentation or liposuction for body sculpting

Mid-30s to 40s

Mommy Makeover procedures (breast lift, tummy tuck, liposuction)
Skin tightening with treatments like Thermage® or radiofrequency devices
Fraxel laser to address sun damage or fine lines

50s and Beyond

Facelifts or neck lifts to reduce sagging
Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) for a more awake, refreshed appearance
Fat transfer to restore facial volume
Skin resurfacing and medical-grade skincare to rejuvenate aging skin

No matter your age, the right procedure can help you feel your best—as long as you work with a board-certified plastic surgeon who understands your goals and provides tailored advice.

Embracing Beauty at Every Age

One of the best takeaways from the Beauty for Life survey is this: beauty is ageless. Our priorities shift, our methods evolve, but the desire to feel confident, attractive, and radiant stays constant.

At Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Eugene, Oregon, we understand the unique concerns that come with each phase of life. Whether you’re interested in correcting a specific concern or exploring options for long-term rejuvenation, we offer a range of personalized treatments designed to help you look—and feel—your best.

Our team, led by Dr. Lee B. Daniel, provides:

Honest, pressure-free consultations
Individualized care plans that prioritize your lifestyle and goals
Surgical and non-surgical options for all skin types and ages

Ready to Start Your Beauty Journey?

No matter your age or stage in life, there’s no “wrong time” to invest in your appearance. If you’ve been thinking about cosmetic enhancement, we’d love to help you explore your options.

Contact Aesthetic Plastic Surgery today at (541) 687-8900 or visit aestheticplasticsurg.org to schedule your consultation.

Your beauty is lifelong—let’s make every stage your best.