Between social media filters, miracle creams, and endless anti-ageing treatments, the pressure to stay young forever keeps growing (not that it needed any help).
While taking care of yourself is a good thing, there’s a fine line between healthy self-care and an obsession with staying “forever young.” These days, the lengths people go to avoid ageing are sometimes a bit extreme — or just plain exhausting. When will we start seeing ageing as the privilege it really is?
1. Morning routines have turned into a mini spa session.
Source: Unsplash The days of splashing water on your face and applying some moisturiser seem like ancient history. These days, it’s common to see routines that have 10, 15, or even 20 steps, each one carefully timed and layered. People now wake up extra early just to fit in facial massages, ice rollers, and the latest serums with scientific-sounding ingredients. Skincare has become so elaborate that it’s started feeling more like a full-time job than a self-care moment.
2. “Preventative” treatments are starting young — really young.
Not so long ago, cosmetic treatments like Botox were reserved for older age groups. Now, even people in their twenties are signing up for “baby Botox” before they have a single wrinkle. It’s no longer surprising to hear young professionals discuss their next round of injectables as if it’s the same as a quick manicure. Dermatologists report seeing patients as young as 19 requesting treatments to “prevent” ageing before it even begins.
3. Social media filters have created an “ageing is failure” mindset.
With apps like Instagram and TikTok, where filters can smooth, lift, and brighten everything instantly, ageing has almost become something to “fix.” Every scroll brings perfectly airbrushed, wrinkle-free faces that set impossible beauty standards. Even teenagers find themselves editing their photos to look older but somehow “perfect.” It’s no wonder that when we look in the mirror, our natural selves don’t quite measure up to our digital avatars.
4. Supplements are piling up on the kitchen worktops.
Source: Unsplash Take a look around, and you’ll see that supplements for “youth and longevity” have taken over — from collagen powders to complex vitamin routines that cost a small fortune. Many people are now starting their day with a line-up of pills that could rival a health food store aisle. A quick glance at the cost of these monthly habits reveals they’re often spending more on supplements than food, even if they’re not always sure what half of them do.
5. Exercise routines are going way beyond healthy.
Source: Unsplash Exercise is amazing for health, but for some, it’s become another way to chase youth. High-intensity routines, double workouts, and intense regimens designed to boost growth hormones or preserve muscle are taking their toll. Pushing past the point of health to “fight ageing” often results in physical burnout and injuries, proving that more isn’t always better — especially if the body is feeling the strain.
6. Trying to stay young is breaking the bank.
Let’s face it, anti-ageing isn’t cheap. Some people are remortgaging homes or dipping into savings meant for retirement to fund pricey procedures or experimental treatments. The irony? This kind of financial stress probably does more to age a person than a few wrinkles ever could. As anti-ageing treatments skyrocket in price, credit card companies are noting a spike in debt tied directly to cosmetic procedures.
7. Desperation is fuelling a booming “miracle treatment” industry.
With new treatments hitting the market every week, from cryotherapy chambers to plasma facials, there’s no shortage of “breakthroughs” promising to roll back the clock. People are shelling out thousands for these experimental solutions, often booking procedures months or years in advance. This desperate pursuit of youth has also led to an increase in unregulated treatments and risky medical tourism.
8. Trying to stay young forever takes a psychological toll.
The relentless pursuit of staying young comes with an emotional cost. People start skipping social events because they’re self-conscious about laugh lines or grey hairs, and magnifying mirrors become the enemy. What should be simple joy turns into hyper-awareness and stress about looking “old.” Many mental health professionals are seeing more cases of anxiety and depression linked directly to fears about ageing.
9. Healthy ageing is all about balance.
Taking care of your appearance and overall health is important, but when routines become excessive, expensive, or interfere with actually enjoying life, it’s a problem. There’s a growing trend toward simpler skincare, balanced nutrition, and sustainable habits that allow people to age naturally while feeling good. It’s about finding that balance where you’re caring for yourself without obsessing over every wrinkle or grey hair.
10. The real “fountain of youth” might surprise you.
At the end of the day, true youthfulness isn’t something you buy in a bottle. People who feel truly vibrant and happy tend to be those who embrace life fully, have strong connections, and pursue passions that bring them joy. Studies consistently show that fulfilling relationships, positive outlooks, and staying active in what we love do far more for longevity than any anti-ageing product.
