Biomedicine doctor debunks 'eternal youth' myths seen on social media

Social media often creates a misleading image of reality, according to Lithuanian nutrition specialist and biomedicine doctor Artūras Sujeta. He argues that the curated content online, featuring filters, photo editing, and cosmetic procedures, rarely reflects genuine appearance.

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If we look at today's social media – it's almost always a combination of several factors, and it's impossible to distinguish them from a photo. I'm talking about filters, corrections, and so on.

Dr. Sujeta points out that distinguishing between genetics, healthy living, and digital manipulation in photos is nearly impossible. "Filters, corrections, and other tools are often used," he stated, noting that many apps automatically alter facial features and skin. He also highlighted the common practice of omitting aesthetic treatments like Botox, fillers, and laser procedures.

While genetics influence aging and lifespan, Sujeta stresses they account for only about a quarter of these processes. External factors, particularly UV radiation, are major contributors to skin aging, potentially causing up to 70-80% of visible changes. Lifestyle habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, sleep, and physical activity also play significant roles.

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Ultimately, aesthetic procedures are often not mentioned – botulinum injections, fillers, lasers, etc. The truth is that for many people, it is easier to endure lip filler injections than criticism from social media users and algorithms.

Despite the prevalence of digital enhancements, Sujeta acknowledges that some individuals genuinely appear younger than their age due to objective factors like genetics. However, he reiterates that a healthy lifestyle, especially regular exercise, is a proven and reliable method for healthy aging, contrasting with the often artificial portrayals online.

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Speaking about the skin, it is precisely external factors, primarily UV radiation, that are estimated to cause up to about 70-80% of visible facial skin aging.