Facial filters—whether referred to as augmented reality filters, face retouching, or simply “filters”—have evolved from playful additions like puppy ears and flower crowns to essential tools on platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram. How many of us can resist our favorite Instagram filter? Even I, in my late thirties, can’t post without applying a filter; it enhances my features and boosts my confidence. But what about the younger generation?
Teens are immersed in a selfie-centric culture. In a conversation with MIT Technology Review, 15-year-old Emma recalls how filters became prevalent during her fifth-grade years, enabling her and her friends to enhance their appearances. “It’s incredible to look older and prettier,” she says. However, the discrepancy between the digitally altered self and the real self can be troubling, creating a social experiment where the subjects are mostly teenagers and women.
Filters Are Everywhere
Carla Williams, a makeup artist, shares her observations of women who refuse to be seen without filters. “They genuinely believe that their filtered images are their true selves,” she explains. This mindset can lead to unhealthy self-perceptions, as even Carla admits to feeling compelled to alter her own appearance digitally. Now, Zoom offers a “touch up my appearance” feature, further normalizing the need for digital enhancement.
Celebrities like Mia Thompson, who frequently showcases her filtered selfies, reinforce this behavior. Even when she shares moments without makeup, she still relies on filters to modify her features. If a star like Mia won’t present herself unfiltered, what message does that send to the average teen?
With 63% of teens aged 13-17 using Instagram daily and 54% engaging on Snapchat, the prevalence of filters is alarming. Many of us, including myself, use filters routinely, raising questions about the impact on younger users who view this as the norm.
The Dangers of Facetune and Similar Apps
Apps like Facetune and Meitu allow individuals to manipulate their facial features extensively. Whether it’s altering the size of a nose or enhancing lips, these tools create an unrealistic standard. “I’ve deleted Facetune multiple times,” says 21-year-old Alex Carter, illustrating the pressure social media exerts on appearance. The so-called “Instagram Face” has become a common reference point, characterized by small noses, large eyes, and flawless skin.
Consequences for Mental Health
Heather Johnson, a licensed clinical social worker at a teen mental health facility, highlights the connection between media use and body image concerns. Teenagers often struggle with depression and self-esteem issues when comparing their real selves to their filtered counterparts. “These comparisons can significantly harm mental health,” she explains.
Dr. Lisa Reynolds, a psychology professor, confirms that social media platforms like Instagram are linked to anxiety, depression, and body dissatisfaction. With such a high percentage of teens using these platforms daily, the implications are concerning. This constant comparison can lead to serious issues, including body dysmorphic disorder—where individuals obsess over perceived flaws in their appearance.
The normalization of filtered images has even led some people to seek cosmetic procedures to achieve their digital ideal. A striking rise in requests for plastic surgery inspired by selfies has been noted; in 2017, 55% of plastic surgeons reported seeing patients who desired to resemble their filtered images, up from just 13% in 2013.
Ultimately, the clash between the digital and actual selves can lead to detrimental effects on self-esteem and mental health. While filters can be fun, they are fostering a generation of individuals who believe they must conform to an unrealistic beauty standard.
For more insights into navigating these challenges, check out our other blog posts on privacy policies and mental health resources.
Summary
Facial filters are prevalent in today’s social media landscape, significantly affecting the self-esteem and mental health of teenagers. As they grow accustomed to augmented realities that alter their appearance, the contrast with their true selves can lead to various mental health issues, including anxiety and body dysmorphia. The influence of celebrities and the normalization of digital enhancement further exacerbate the problem, creating an environment where young individuals feel pressured to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.