The Discrepancy Between Interest and Experience in Beauty Treatments

A recent study by Teiketsukai Medical Corporation, which operates the IC Clinic in Tokyo, revealed a significant gap between interest and actual participation in aesthetic medical procedures. Despite increased visibility through social media and other platforms, about 80% of adults interested in beauty treatments have never tried them. In this article, we explore the underlying reasons for this phenomenon and what potential clients desire.

The Growth of Aesthetic Medicine

In today’s world, aesthetic medicine has become more accessible than ever due to its growing presence in media and social networks. Popular treatments such as laser therapies, hyaluronic acid injections, and Botox have entered the common vocabulary, leading to increased curiosity among the general public. However, many individuals hesitate to take the next step towards treatment. Teiketsukai conducted a nationwide survey targeting adults aged 20 to 50 who expressed interest but had yet to undergo any procedures.

Survey Overview

- Target Group: 300 working adults across the nation aged between 20 and 50 who are interested in aesthetic medicine.
- Survey Duration: October 1 to October 15, 2025.
- Method: Online research conducted by Teiketsukai Medical Corporation.

Lack of Experience Among Interested Adults

The survey found that a staggering 79.3% of respondents had never undergone any aesthetic procedure, highlighting a striking disconnect between interest levels and actual experience.

- Experienced Treatment: 20.7%
- Not Experienced: 79.3%

Major Concerns Hindering Participation

When inquiring about the reservations against undergoing treatments (multiple responses allowed), the foremost issue cited was price transparency. A notable 63.2% reported that the high cost and lack of clarity made them apprehensive. This was closely followed by concerns about potential side effects and failures (58.4%) and uncertainty about the longevity of results (47.8%). These findings emphasize that financial worries and safety concerns are significant barriers to entry into aesthetic procedures.

Key Reasons for Hesitation (Multiple Responses Allowed)

- High cost and lack of transparency: 63.2%
- Fear of complications or side effects: 58.4%
- Uncertainty about effectiveness: 47.8%
- Anxiety about downtime: 41.6%
- Difficulty choosing a clinic: 38.9%
- Fear of public exposure: 32.7%
- Difficulty accessing consultations: 28.3%
- Uncertainty about necessity: 24.5%

Top Desired Treatments

When asked which aesthetic treatments they'd find most appealing in the future, 62.4% of respondents highlighted their interest in treatments for pigmentation and freckles, followed by those seeking pores treatment and skin improvement (48.7%) and wrinkle treatment (43.2%). These preferences suggest a strong desire to address age-related skin concerns and improve skin texture.

Likely Procedures (Multiple Responses Allowed)

- Pigmentation and freckles treatment: 62.4%
- Pore treatment and skin quality improvement: 48.7%
- Wrinkle treatment: 43.2%
- Acne and acne scar treatment: 35.8%
- Whitening and toning treatment: 31.6%
- Mole and wart removal: 28.4%
- Medical hair removal: 24.9%
- Facial contouring: 19.3%

Information Needs Before Treatment

Participants expressed a strong desire for real case photos before undergoing treatment. Approximately 71.3% stated that visual proof of previous cases (before-and-after images) would bolster their confidence. 68.7% wanted detailed pricing breakdowns, and 56.2% looked for information on expected recovery times. This highlights the importance of transparency and authentic communication in fostering trust.

Desired Pre-Treatment Information (Multiple Responses Allowed)

- Actual case photos: 71.3%
- Breakdown of costs: 68.7%
- Expected recovery time: 56.2%
- Details about the practitioner’s qualifications: 49.8%
- Specifics regarding treatment risks: 47.6%
- Patient reviews: 42.3%
- Maintenance frequency and overall costs: 38.9%
- Consultation process: 31.4%

Conditions Favoring Treatment Decisions

The survey also asked participants which conditions might encourage them to pursue aesthetic medicine. 62.8% indicated that special introductory prices would entice them, along with 59.4% preferring clear pricing and 54.7% wanting free consultations. This suggests that reducing financial barriers and establishing accessible, welcoming environments are critical for attracting new patients.

Conditions That Encourage Treatment (Multiple Responses Allowed)

- Special introductory pricing: 62.8%
- Clear pricing: 59.4%
- Free consultations: 54.7%
- Treatments administered by qualified surgeons: 48.3%
- Minimal downtime treatments: 44.6%
- Payment plans: 39.2%
- Referral from friends/family: 32.8%
- Positive social media reviews: 28.4%

Summary of Findings

This survey highlighted that around 80% of individuals interested in aesthetic medicine are yet to have any experience. The lack of price transparency and fears of mistakes emerge as significant factors preventing individuals from pursuing treatments. However, there is a marked interest in procedures like pigmentation correction and pore treatment, with an evident demand for authentic case studies and clarity regarding pricing.

Medical Commentary

Dr. Kōta Takakua from IC Clinic remarked, “This study reveals that many individuals interested in aesthetic medicine are hesitant due to price ambiguity and fears of errors. Communication gaps in information dissemination from medical institutions contribute to these apprehensions. Aesthetic medicine is not just for a select few; it addresses everyday skin concerns through appropriate medical approaches.
I urge anyone intrigued by aesthetic treatments to explore our services, as our skilled professionals offer tailored solutions in a safe environment, ensuring that treatment decisions are made confidently and knowledgeably.”

Free Initial Consultations to Alleviate Concerns

If you find yourself interested but overwhelmed by uncertainties, a good starting point is to schedule a free consultation. The IC Clinic specializes in customized treatment plans addressing each individual’s skin concerns in a comfortable atmosphere.

IC Clinic Features

- Procedures by specialized plastic surgeons.
- Clearly stated pricing with detailed estimates provided during consultations.
- Extensive history of successful cases.
- Free consultations available.
- Convenient locations across Tokyo with six clinics.
- Equipped with state-of-the-art medical devices ensuring safe and effective treatments.

Aesthetic medicine is not about exclusivity; it’s about empowering individuals to lead confident and authentic lives. If you have any skin concerns, feel free to consult with us.