What are the studies on improvements in perceived physical attractiveness?

From the Guidelines

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment for improving perceived physical attractiveness in individuals with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), as it addresses the underlying psychological issues contributing to distorted body image. According to a recent study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry and Allied Disciplines 1, CBT for BDD involves several key components, including psychoeducation, constructing a hierarchy of avoided situations, exposure and response prevention (ERP), and evaluating thoughts. These techniques help individuals with BDD to develop a more balanced perspective on their appearance, reduce self-focused attention, and improve their overall body image.

Some of the key techniques used in CBT for BDD include:

• Psychoeducation about BDD and anxiety
• Constructing a hierarchy of avoided situations
• Exposure and response prevention (ERP)
• Evaluating thoughts and testing negative beliefs
• Mirror retraining to encourage a more neutral and non-judgemental view of oneself

These interventions can lead to significant improvements in perceived physical attractiveness, as they address the underlying psychological factors contributing to body image distortions. As noted in the study 1, CBT can help individuals with BDD to develop a more realistic and positive view of their appearance, leading to improved self-esteem and overall quality of life.

In terms of specific outcomes, the study 1 suggests that CBT can lead to significant reductions in BDD symptoms, including improved body image and reduced anxiety. While the study does not provide a specific percentage increase in attractiveness ratings, it highlights the importance of addressing the underlying psychological issues contributing to distorted body image. By using CBT to improve body image and reduce self-focused attention, individuals with BDD can experience significant improvements in their perceived physical attractiveness.

From the FDA Drug Label

The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Studies on Improvements in Perceived Physical Attractiveness

• The study 2 found that treatment of dynamic facial lines with botulinum toxin significantly improves self-esteem and general life satisfaction, as well as self-perceived attractiveness and attractiveness rated by others.
• A systematic review 3 of observer-reported outcomes from cosmetic procedures performed on the head and neck found that improved perception after cosmetic intervention is most reproducibly demonstrated for the domains of age, attractiveness, sociability, relationship success, and occupational and financial competency.
• A study 4 based on online before and after photos found that blepharoplasty, face-lifting, and Botox deliver a significant improvement in facial attractiveness, with blepharoplasty producing the most remarkable improvement.
• Research 5 on the psychological aspects of aesthetic plastic surgery found that cosmetic surgery can improve aesthetic appearance and subsequently self-esteem and self-confidence, with the majority of participants reporting improved body image and self-confidence after surgery.

Measurement of Facial Attractiveness

• A study 6 comparing the psychometric properties of different response scales for measuring facial attractiveness found little evidence of an advantage for one scale over any other, but suggested that certain scales (1-5,1-7, and 1-8) may be favored by researchers.
• The same study 6 highlighted the importance of considering the psychometric properties of response scales when measuring facial attractiveness, as different scales may have different effects on the results.

Cosmetic Procedures and Attractiveness

• Studies 2, 3, and 4 provide evidence that various cosmetic procedures, including botulinum toxin treatment, face-lifting, and blepharoplasty, can improve perceived physical attractiveness.
• The review 3 also found that cosmetic procedures can have a positive impact on social capacities, skills, and competencies, in addition to improving aesthetics and wellness.