The internet is buzzing with questions like “Why Does Gen Z Look Older Than Millennials?” and “Why is Gen Z aging faster?” Google Trends data reveals these were top trending searches related to these generations in the past year. Gen Z typically ranges from 11 to 26 years old, while Millennials are between 27 and 42.
This discussion exploded in January with a viral TikTok video by 26-year-old Jordan Howlett, amassing over 24 million views. Howlett attributed the perceived age difference to stress, stating, “We live in a time…where Millennials look way younger for their age while Gen Z looks way older.”
Kylie Jenner at Jean Paul Gaultier spring 2024 couture.
Stress and the Aging Process
Howlett’s claim about stress impacting aging has scientific backing. Research, including DNA analysis and subjective observations, distinguishes between chronological age (years lived) and biological age (health and lifestyle’s impact on the body). Factors like smoking, genetics, diet, mental health, and chronic stress can contribute to looking older.
Emily Trampetti, aesthetician and founder of Skin Property, emphasizes stress’s often overlooked role in aging, especially chronic stress. She notes that Americans tend to accept stress as a badge of honor, but it can significantly accelerate the aging process.
A 2022 McKinsey Health Institute survey found 32% of Gen Z reported poor mental, social, and spiritual health compared to 23% of Millennials. Furthermore, 27% of Gen Z blamed social media, highlighting its potential negative impact on mental well-being. While Millennials spend more time on social media, Gen Z engages in more passive scrolling, potentially leading to decreased emotional well-being, according to a 2015 Journal of Experimental Psychology study.
Retinoid Use and Premature Aging Concerns
Beyond stress, some Gen Z individuals attribute their perceived accelerated aging to retinoid use, claiming it increases fine lines.
However, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick clarifies that retinoids, a vitamin A derivative, are primarily beneficial for treating acne, not anti-aging in younger individuals. While effective for breakouts and scarring, retinoids can be drying and irritating, potentially disrupting the skin barrier. Dr. Garshick advises against unnecessary use at a young age, as the potential benefits for anti-aging are minimal compared to the risks of irritation.
The Millennial Youthfulness Factor: Injectables
While Gen Z worries about aging prematurely, Millennials are often perceived as looking younger. Dr. Dan Belkin, a board-certified dermatologist, attributes this to Millennials’ adoption of injectable treatments.
The American Society of Plastic Surgery’s 2023 study showed a significant rise in injectable use for anti-aging, with Millennials leading the growth. They saw a 9% increase in hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers like Juvederm, Voluma, and Restylane, which add volume to areas like lips, cheeks, and under-eyes. Non-HA fillers (Radiesse, Sculptra, Bellafill) also saw an 8% increase among Millennials.
Neuromodulators like Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin remain the most popular injectables overall, effectively reducing wrinkles and fine lines. These are particularly popular with Millennials as they address aging concerns that become more pronounced in their mid-to-late 30s.
Gen Z and Injectables: A Different Approach
Although Gen Z favors fillers over neuromodulators, their use can sometimes backfire, leading to an overfilled look that appears older. Dr. Belkin emphasizes that fillers should be used strategically for enhancement rather than replacing volume loss in this age group, focusing on subtle improvements rather than drastic changes.
The case of Kylie Jenner’s appearance at the Jean Paul Gaultier spring 2024 couture show illustrates this point. Social media erupted with commentary on Jenner’s perceived overfilled look, attributing it to migrating filler that made her appear older. This incident sparked widespread discussion about the potential downsides of excessive filler use in younger individuals. As Dr. Devine explained on TikTok, overfilled areas can mimic age-related changes that typically occur much later in life.
The “Baby Botox” Trend and Potential Pitfalls
While Gen Z’s use of neuromodulators is lower than Millennials’, “Baby Botox,” a preventative approach to wrinkles, is gaining traction. However, Dr. Belkin cautions against overuse, as it can also contribute to an aged appearance.
Xeomin, known for its more conservative results, is often favored for maintaining natural movement while reducing lines. Its “Beauty on Your Terms” campaign, featuring ambassadors like Demi Lovato and Joe Jonas, targets a younger demographic.
Dr. Belkin explains that overusing neuromodulators can lead to an unnatural, frozen look, a heavy brow, or an overly arched “Spocked” brow. These effects can inadvertently make younger individuals appear older than they are. A conservative approach, particularly with a neuromodulator like Xeomin, is recommended for this age group.
In conclusion, the perception of Gen Z looking older than Millennials is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including stress, social media, retinoid use, and the varying approaches to injectables. While Millennials embrace injectables to address age-related concerns, Gen Z’s focus on enhancements requires a more cautious and conservative approach to avoid unintended consequences that can ironically contribute to a prematurely aged appearance.
