Usage Patterns and Self-Esteem of Female Consumers of Antiaging Cosmetic Products

Abstract

Aging is an irreversible process of the human body, resulting from a progressive decrease in the biological functions of the organs, including the skin. This study analyzed the relationship between usage patterns of different types of anti-aging cosmetic products, sociodemographic variables, appearance schemes, psychological morbidity, perfectionism, and aging perception of aging with self-esteem. This cross-sectional study included a sample of 260 women, aged between 25 and 64 years, who are users of anti-aging cosmetics and/or aesthetic treatments. Participants were assessed on psychological morbidity (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), appearance schemes (Appearance Schemas Inventory—Revised), perfectionism (Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale), aging perceptions (Brief Aging Perceptions Questionnaire), and self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale). The use of facial-firming cosmetics positively correlated with self-esteem. The results of regression analysis revealed that psychological morbidity and perfectionism contribute negatively to self-esteem, while marital status, professional status, and aging perceptions (positive consequences) contribute positively. According to the results, intervention programs to promote women’s self-esteem should focus on the reduction in psychological morbidity and the promotion of adaptive patterns of perfectionism and address aging perceptions. Longitudinal studies might help explain the complex relationship between the use of anti-aging cosmetic products and psychological variables, particularly self-esteem in women.

Knowledge of free radicals and antioxidants in dermatology in the general population

“…In fact, women generally use dermo‐cosmetic products more than men, probably for society's beauty standards. Use of antiaging products has been found to be correlated to a lack of self‐esteem, 28 which is generally higher in women than in men. A similar explanation can be found for age since dermo‐cosmetic products are used more often at an older age.…”

Skin Care Nanocosmetics

“…Among these, skin care nanocosmetics account for most commercial products, with emphasis on those with anti-aging, moisturizing, anti-wrinkle, antioxidant and sunscreen properties [6]. Mainly for women, anti-aging and anti-wrinkle claims products are highlighted [7]. This chapter will address the state of art and the most recent contributions of nanocosmetics for skin care, with emphasis on the most employed nanocarriers.…”