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First of all, healthy self-esteem should not be equated with narcissism.

The latter has negative consequences while the former has long-term psychological benefits that are distinct from such negative effects.

Lately, self-esteem hasn’t been getting much love in science circles or the media when it comes to impacting life outcomes. But, a big new study from psychologists at the University of California, Davis, and the University of Bern is shaking things up, showing that having high self-esteem can actually boost various aspects of your life.

“This research shows what most people already believe — that self-esteem matters,” said psychology professor Richard W. Robins at the University of Bern.

Their findings show that people with high self-esteem generally have more success at school and work, better social relationships, improved mental and physical health, and less anti-social behaviour. And, these benefits persist from adolescence to adulthood and into old age. 

“Even small effects can accumulate over long periods of time,” Robins said. “Just looking at a year of a person’s life, there might be a small benefit to feeling good about yourself. But if you look across the next 30 years and consider how that benefit accumulates as people go from one life stage to the next, those cumulative benefits may be quite strong.” 

Robins, who’s been diving into self-esteem research for years, sees this review as a pushback against the idea that high self-esteem is dangerous. According to Robins and Orth’s research, self-esteem and narcissism are two different beasts.

Self-esteem is about self-acceptance and self-respect, while narcissism is all about feeling superior, entitled, and self-centred. Their review shows that high self-esteem and narcissism lead to very different life outcomes. High self-esteem is linked to better social relationships, whereas narcissism often causes relationship troubles. Still, many psychologists and everyday folks have dismissed the benefits of self-esteem as a myth, even suggesting it has a “dark side,” Robins said.

Despite doubts cast on the importance of self-esteem, Robins said their review of the large body of self-esteem research demonstrates that it matters, and consequently interventions aimed at boosting self-esteem might benefit individuals and society as a whole.

That’s where Skin Renewal plays a part, suggesting botulinum/ injectables and glowing skin to improve your self-esteem.

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can improve self-esteem in several ways:

1. Enhancing appearance: Botox smooths out wrinkles and fine lines, helping individuals look more youthful and refreshed. This improved appearance often leads to increased confidence and satisfaction with one’s self-image.

2. Boosting confidence: As people feel better about their looks, they tend to experience a boost in overall confidence. This can positively impact various aspects of life, including personal relationships and professional interactions.

3. Reducing anxiety: For some, visible signs of ageing can cause anxiety and self-consciousness. Botox can alleviate these concerns by minimising the appearance of wrinkles, thereby reducing appearance-related anxiety.

4. Improving facial symmetry: Botox can help correct facial asymmetries, leading to a more balanced and harmonious appearance. This enhanced symmetry can contribute to increased self-esteem.

5. Providing psychological benefits: Studies have shown that Botox users report improvements in self-esteem, mood, and overall quality of life. These psychological benefits extend beyond mere physical changes.

6. Enabling positive self-perception: Botox allows individuals to feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin, fostering a more positive self-image and outlook on life.

It’s important to note that while Botox can contribute to improved self-esteem, it should be approached as a personal choice and not a necessity for self-worth. The decision to use Botox should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

Speak to one of the Skin Renewal aesthetics doctors to get more information on botulinum/ injectables for glowing skin, which can only ever make you feel confident and capable.