New study identifies top considerations for cosmetic procedures

A new study administered by Zalea has revealed the top considerations for people contemplating cosmetic procedures are price, waiting times and the provider’s credentials.

Of the total respondents, 65% were between the ages of 18 and 24 years and most earned less than $50,000 annually. The large-scale survey questioned both males and females.

The study revealed that almost 40% of respondents had either undergone a cosmetic procedure in the past or are planning for a procedure in the next year.

According to the study findings, those considering a procedure used search engines to find out information about treatments, as well as sought recommendations from physicians, family and friends, and social media influencers.

Zalea editor-in-chief Dr Christopher Zachary said: “Millennials represent the future consumers of aesthetic medicine.

“Their understanding of new media and their facility for seeking current information will drive them toward new providers of their choice.”

The study found that 90% of respondents considered a provider’s credentials to be an important factor when deciding on a cosmetic procedure, while 79% noted physician reviews to be important, 78% highlighted the cost of treatment and 73% chose the range of payment options.

Accessibility was also a major concern, with 55% of respondents indicating that a waiting time of less than two weeks for an appointment was acceptable.

In addition, respondents highlighted dermatologists, plastic surgeons, obstetricians (OB) gynaecologists (GYN), family practice physicians and registered nurses as preferred providers for cosmetic procedures.

Zalea co-founder Louis Scafuri said: “By and large, this younger millennial generation appears to express a stronger acceptance and willingness to consider cosmetic procedures than the older generations.

“This survey indicates that these kinds of procedures are becoming considerably more socially acceptable. Millennials are savvy and have distinct expectations particularly around non-invasive procedures which means that providers of technology and procedures should all take notice.”