Confidence and Aging: Insights from the IMCAS 2025 Conference

The IMCAS World Congress 2025 (International Master Course on Aging Science 2025, hereinafter IMCAS 2025), recognized as the most significant academic conference in the field of medical aesthetics, successfully opened on January 30 in Paris, France.

In particular, Merz Aesthetics(hereinafter Merz), the official sponsor, hosted a special media event as a pre-opening program. At this event, Merz unveiled the findings of its global study for the first time, conducted as part of its flagship campaign, "Confidence to Be." The study highlighted the positive impact of medical aesthetics on life, drawing significant attention.

Dr. Shannon Humphrey, a Canadian dermatologist who participated in this study, personally presented the research findings on-site, sharing insights into consumers' core values with medical aesthetics. Dr. Humphrey is the Medical Director of Humphrey & Beleznay Dermatology and is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia. Specializing in injectable treatments such as fillers, neuromodulators, and bio-stimulators, she has established herself at the forefront of aesthetic medicine for several years. Additionally, she has led over 50 major aesthetic clinical studies, significantly shaping industry standards. We had the opportunity to meet her in person at the event.

- You participated in Merz's global study and personally presented the results. How do you feel about it?

It is very meaningful to have established scientific evidence that supports the facts I have experienced in clinical practice and the content I have taught. I have conducted various lectures and projects in the field of medical aesthetics, and when I heard that Merz was conducting this study, I was so passionate about it that I voluntarily expressed my desire to participate. I am delighted and grateful to have the opportunity to share the findings of this study in a gathering of many experts, and personally, this is a very significant moment for me.

- What was the most impressive part of the study?

72% of respondents reported feeling confident in their appearance. This finding indicates that the majority of individuals who have undergone or are considering medical aesthetic procedures already possess a high level of self-confidence. Additionally, these respondents stated that medical aesthetic treatments influence how they perceive themselves. In other words, they choose these procedures not because of social media or societal standards but to enhance their confidence. This aspect was the most striking to me, as it reinforced the idea that consumers approach aesthetic treatments as a means of self-care and overall well-being.

This study was a large-scale research project involving 15,000 participants across 15 countries worldwide. Furthermore, what stood out to me was that Merz conducted this project not as a pharmaceutical company researching its products but as an initiative to better understand consumers. This approach demonstrates Merz's dedication to the field of medical aesthetics and its commitment to addressing consumer needs beyond product development.

- Were there any differences in perspectives on medical aesthetics across different countries?

Most responses were consistent across countries, but people in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region showed a particularly strong concern about aging. In other words, while they embrace aging as a natural process, they are also highly sensitive to changes in their appearance. Various socio-cultural factors have influenced this difference. Additionally, in South America, respondents exhibited a significantly higher tendency to feel confident in their appearance when looking in the mirror compared to other regions.

- What do you hope to achieve through this study?

I hope this study serves as a catalyst for new discussions on medical aesthetics. Medical aesthetics' role is to bridge the gap between how individuals see themselves in the mirror and how they are perceived by others. In particular, the findings of this study will help highlight confidence as a key psychological benefit of medical aesthetic treatments, bringing more clarity to its impact on self-perception and well-being.

- As younger generations emerge as the primary consumer group for medical aesthetics in Korea, concerns have also been raised.

I would like to offer a slightly different perspective on this matter. There are significant benefits to starting aesthetic treatments early as a preventive measure. When individuals undergo procedures at an earlier stage for anti-aging purposes, they can achieve gradual improvements with relatively mild and non-invasive treatments. In contrast, if medical aesthetic procedures are initiated after significant aging, more substantial and intensive treatments may be required to achieve satisfactory results. This, in turn, can increase the overall burden on the individual, which is an important factor to consider.

- What key aspects should Korean consumers not overlook when undergoing aesthetic treatments?

I strongly encourage consumers to take the time to select the right medical professional. In medical aesthetics, the relationship between a doctor and a patient is often long-term, making building a lasting partnership with a practitioner who understands their needs essential. Instead of focusing solely on a doctor's credentials and experience, consumers should seek a provider to help them develop a personalized aging management plan and maintain an ongoing relationship. Rather than opting for a one-time treatment, choosing a practitioner who can be a long-term partner in discussing and guiding their aging journey is essential.