Photo Filter Lived Experiences of Early Adult Females with Facial Enhancement

The study explored the reasons behind the use of facial enhancement procedures by young adult women, their experiences with them, and the effects they had on their self-esteem and self-image. A qualitative methodology was applied, enabling a comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon. The thematic analysis of data was used in transcribing participant responses, coding, coming up with themes, going over themes, and writing up the findings. The study revealed that participants expressed themselves or represented their feelings or moods at the time through the use of photo filters. These edited images were shared on social media, where participants would get likes, comments, and other responses that created overwhelming feelings of contentment and joy. Participants’ use of photo filters was influenced by social media, motivated by their careers and finances, by their desire to be more visible, and by their sense of self-worth. The results of the study showed that participants’ self-esteem and self-image were improved by photo filters. Their self-perception and sense of self-worth were altered by the way photo filters improved their appearance. Photo filters also reinforced their positive self-perception. Remarkably, three of the four participants said they knew what looked good on them and that they intended to get facial enhancements in the future. Overall, the study indicates that young adult women’s self-esteem and self-image may benefit from the use of photo filters. The results emphasize how crucial it is to take into account how social media and cultural influences shape ideals of beauty and body image.