Aesthetic Health Initiative
2023 Trends
Ongoing research from the Aesthetic Health Initiative; Mental Health Impacts Aesthetic Health Impacts Physical Health Impacts Aesthetic Health. There is a circle that exists between our mental health, and our physical health and it is reflected in our aesthetic health. Whether through dress or actual skin, hair or nail health, the importance of physical appearance in diagnosis carry’s validity that is being considered more strongly than ever in diagnosis. This will be explored fully and reported on throughout the year.
TREND 1: Metaphysical Beauty
Re-defining the connection between beauty, skin health and mental health with a renewed appreciation of ancient logic.
Socrates accentuated the power of beauty to further the more vital ends of life in contrast to the instant gratification which a beautiful object or appearance affords to perception and people will adapt a renewed appreciation of that ancient logic. Beauty is more than ‘skin deep’ and the interconnection and influence of wellness on beauty, our appearance and inner being is only beginning.
The expression and experience of wellbeing will continue to merge. More people are seeking a recentering via the powerful role creativity and the intersection of beauty and wellbeing can play in healing. Enjoying simple reflections like hair color, make-up and manicures allows an expression of joy through physical wellbeing. More and more people will embrace the reality that physical and psychological well-being are intimately linked and invest more in beauty treatments and personal grooming services as a meaningful way to express that link. Stress relieving beauty has always been recognized however, exciting innovations and a fusion of modern science and ancient cures will accelerate this. Neurocosmetics, Homeopathy and traditional Chinese Medicine in cosmetics and skin health + mental health will be no longer thought of in isolation and modern forward-thinking brands will find exciting new ways to include them in their formulations.
TREND 2: Indigenous tradition and the rise of spiritual wellness
For thousands of years, indigenous health and wellness traditions have nurtured the delicate balance between mind, body, and spirit, helping communities around the world not just survive, but thrive. Today, there is much to learn from these ancient practices, which are relevant to the needs and concerns of aesthetics and mental health—both important wellness topics this year. In addition, customers crave more than just transactional products or services; they desire engaging experiences. Indigenous traditions can offer inspiration to enhance these experiences, promoting a deeper connection with total human wellness.
Imagine a world where beauty and health are intertwined, and our mental and emotional well-being directly influences our outer appearance. Indigenous traditions teach us this interconnected perspective, emphasizing that the key to a radiant life lies in nourishing all aspects of our being. By embracing a holistic and culturally diverse approach, we can rediscover the ancestral wisdom that enriches our lives with lasting health, beauty, and happiness. Well-being and a sense of fulfillment may begin with addressing our appearance, but their impact is more than skin deep.
First – Indigenous wisdom emphasizes the importance of prevention and maintaining physical and mental balance. This is achieved by incorporating community connections in self-care practices, such as participating in ancient bathing rituals with friends in Korean saunas and Japanese bathhouses, or preparing tonics for loved ones in Indonesian Jamu with “jampi oesodo,” an ancient Javanese phrase meaning “well wishes for health.” By adopting this ancient mindset, we develop healthier habits and embrace a lifestyle that supports overall well-being, steering clear of imbalance and illness through intentionally nurturing supportive social relationships.
Second – Mindfulness and self-connection are common themes in indigenous traditions for seeking a deeper sense of happiness and fulfillment. These themes are often incorporated into beauty and wellness practices. For example, in the Indian Ayurveda tradition, the “Abhyanga” massage using dosha-specific oils promotes relaxation, nourishment, and rejuvenation of the skin while encouraging self-care and introspection. Other body treatments, like the Balinese Boreh, involve applying a warming and invigorating body mask to the skin, often accompanied by meditation. Similarly, the Maori Mirimiri massage focuses on releasing energy blockages to improve the flow of “mauri” or life force. Both treatments combine massage and healing energies to increase self-awareness. The mindful moments in these rituals contribute to reduced stress and increased inner peace, which are crucial for achieving true well-being.
Third of all, the cultural diversity found in indigenous health and wellness traditions offers a refreshing perspective on beauty and wellness, challenging conventional standards and fostering a more inclusive global wellness culture. As we learn from these diverse practices, we empower ourselves to create a more expansive and compassionate understanding of what it means to be healthy and beautiful.
The World Health Organization’s definition of health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” contrasts with the Western medicine approach, which primarily focuses on the absence of disease. Indigenous traditions align more closely with the WHO’s definition, and the knowledge passed down through generations offers valuable insights into the interconnected nature of mind, body, and spirit. In 2023, we will reconnect with our roots and rediscover the power of a truly holistic approach to beauty, health, and happiness.
TREND 3: Immuno-Aesthetics
Over the last 30 years, focus on oncologic aesthetics has been accepted into the medical mainstream. Today, with greater awareness of the microbiome and the intricate biological responses from our immune system, a new area is coming into light. From the better understanding of the bodies response mechanisms to auto-immune diseases, inflammatory response and the overall connection of body systems comes ‘Immuno- Aesthetics’. A broad set of conditions that is encapsulated into a concise target group. Recognizing the related aesthetic health changes can better aid in helping individuals live with their conditions, find relief, and possibly even lead to faster healing outcomes.
We will see further exploration of innovation in immune support as a result of the desire to up-regulate the immune system and healthy cellular activity for better prevention and treatment of critical diseases.
TREND 4: Biomimetic, Biogenic Skin Health
The simplest way to describe biomimetic design is that which imitates life. It seems that the intersection of technology and biology is one place we have found inspiration for today’s innovative design in sciences and technology across life.
The term “biomimetic” is preferred for references to chemical reactions, such as reactions that, in nature, involve biological macromolecules (e.g., enzymes or nucleic acids) whose chemistry can be replicated in vitro using much smaller molecules.
What is biomimicry in skin health care?
Biomimetic skin care is an advanced approach to formulation utilizing innovative plant-based and synthetic biomimetic ingredients that integrate nature and science. These ingredients mimic skin structures and biochemicals which enable optimal delivery and results; this is the next frontier in natural skin care. Nature will continue to influence innovation in a field that is just getting started and ripe for innovation, nature holds an enormous infinite source of solutions and this year and onwards we will see those stakeholders scaling their expertise, research, and knowledge to apply those learnings to move closer to an inclusive environment for man in harmony with nature and our ecosystem.
TREND 5: AI and digital health and wellbeing ecosystems
Advancements will continue to accelerate this year with more meaningful connections being explored for personalized wellbeing and healthcare and more effective prevention strategies and wellbeing management via continuing developments in AI testing. Virtual reality (VR) will deliver pioneering sensory experiences for healthcare and wellbeing consultations, a dynamic area which is tipped to follow through to employ more AI technology in a fragmented labor market. Wellbeing ecosystems will range from skincare, clinical hypnotherapy to general counselling and consultation.
The intersection of AI and traditional offerings will afford more on demand services for self-guided care and mental health and aesthetic health support. All areas of our lives have been transformed to some extent with technology, yet many areas have not progressed up until now. The future is trending towards personalization and better solutions in digital health and wellbeing resources.
Authors: Alison O’ Neil, Anita Murray and Metta Murdaya
