Beauty procedures from manicures to cosmetic surgery carry risk — and the reward of a better life — podcast

Beauty Procedures from Manicures to Cosmetic Surgery Carry Risk — and the Reward of a Better Life — Podcast

The pursuit of beauty is a universal human desire, but it often comes with a hidden cost. In this episode of The Conversation Weekly, we explore the risks associated with beauty treatments, from manicures to cosmetic surgery, and the rewards that come with a better life.

The Illusion of Choice

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In Brazil, the government has taken the unprecedented step of subsidizing cosmetic surgery, citing its benefits to mental and emotional well-being. However, this pursuit of beauty has a dark side, and many patients are willing to take risks to achieve their desired appearance.

Carmen Alvaro Jarrín, an associate professor of anthropology at the College of the Holy Cross, has researched cosmetic surgery in Brazil and found that many patients are willing to endure potential harm to achieve their desired look. Jarrín argues that the idea of beauty as a health right is a relatively new concept and is closely tied to the notion of upward mobility.

“It surprised me how many of them get plastic surgery, and spend a lot of money on beauty because they see it as a way to attain upward mobility,” Jarrín said.

The Risk of Exposure

It’s not just plastic surgery that carries risks. The growing popularity of gel manicures, with their use of UV lights, can also pose health risks. In 2016, Karolina Jasko, the 2018 Miss Illinois, was diagnosed with a rare form of melanoma on her thumb nail, triggered by exposure to UV lights in nail parlors.

Maria Zhivagui, a postdoctoral researcher in environmental toxicology and cancer genomics, has studied the impacts of using UV light to cure nail polish. Her team found that UV nail lamps can cause mutations in human and mice cells, and she stopped using the UV lights after seeing the effects.

“After seeing the effects on the mitochondria, on the DNA and cell death, I was like, no, this is very alarming,” Zhivagui said. “And I stopped immediately getting exposed to these UV radiations in nail salons.”

Conclusion

The pursuit of beauty is a complex issue, with both benefits and risks associated with beauty treatments. While it’s tempting to seek out treatments that promise a better life, it’s essential to weigh the potential risks against the potential rewards.

FAQs

Q: What is the concept of “pretty privilege”?
A: Pretty privilege refers to the idea that people who are perceived as physically attractive are given preferential treatment and access to opportunities and resources.

Q: Why does the Brazilian government subsidize cosmetic surgery?
A: The Brazilian government subsidizes cosmetic surgery as part of its healthcare system, citing its benefits to mental and emotional well-being.

Q: What are the risks associated with gel manicures?
A: The growing popularity of gel manicures, with their use of UV lights, can pose health risks, including the risk of skin cancer and mutations in human cells.

Q: Can you get skin cancer from gel manicures?
A: Yes, there is a risk of skin cancer associated with gel manicures, particularly if the UV lights are not used properly or if the person is exposed to them for extended periods.

Q: How can I reduce my risk of exposure to UV lights in nail salons?
A: To reduce your risk of exposure to UV lights in nail salons, you can ask your nail technician to use a UV-free alternative, wear gloves or a hat to protect your skin, or limit your exposure to the UV lights.