Demi Moore shines in anti-aging film; see trailer

In recent years, brands and publications have been rethinking the use of the term anti-aging in your campaigns and products. However, promises to reverse aging are still prevalent, as are criticisms of this idea. The new film starring Demi Moore, The Substancedeepens this discussion by tensely portraying the impact of the desire not to age, provoking reflections on the naturalness of this process and why so many people fear it.

Criticism of the concept of anti-aging

Criticism of the concept of anti-aging is not new, but it gains a new layer with the narrative of The Substance. More coherent plastic surgeons always argue that the focus should be on making the patient feel good about themselves. When someone expresses concern about aging, the best response is: “I’m glad you’re getting older! If everything goes well, it will continue for much longer“. The film reinforces the importance of deconstructing the idea that aging must be fought.

The fear of aging

The fear of aging is understandable. After all, aging reminds us of the finiteness of life. Every wrinkle, every change in the mirror, are visual reminders that we are in a cycle that will inevitably come to an end. However, the term anti-aging intensifies this fear in a cruel way, reinforcing the idea that aging is something to be avoided, when, in fact, it is a natural process.

Anti-aging: a mistaken concept

Comparisons with other terms, such as antibiotic (which fights bacteria) or contraceptive (which prevents pregnancy), make it clear why the term anti-aging is problematic. Aging is not a disease to be cured or fought. On the contrary, it is an inescapable and intrinsic fact of life. The idea of ​​“combating” aging perpetuates a negative view of something that is part of our existence.

The search for naturalness in plastic surgery

The evolution of plastic surgery techniques also points to a change in the way we view aging. Unlike past decades, the objective is no longer to create stretched and artificial faces, but to promote natural and healthy aging. A well-operated patient should not appear “surgery”, but rather more rested and happy. The intervention, when carried out, should be in favor of a lighter and more natural appearance.

Respect for the elderly in other cultures

While in the West youth is largely glorified, in many Asian cultures, the elderly are respected and valued for their wisdom. Your wrinkles are seen as signs of experience and a source of pride. The film The Substance touches exactly on this difference in perception, showing how the obsession with youthful beauty can be destructive.

Pressure from the media and social networks

In the Western world, the standard of beauty is still closely linked to youth. Magazine covers, digital influencers and advertisements exalt the image of thin bodies and smooth faces, often enhanced by makeup and Photoshop. This notion pressures people to treat every sign of aging, such as wrinkles and sagging, at any cost, fueling constant frustration.

The inevitable change of the body

Time passes, and it is impossible to maintain the body and life you had at 18 years old. Work, responsibilities, and maturity bring natural transformations. This change should not be a reason for frustration, but for acceptance. The action of the facial muscles over the years, the result of smiles, tears and emotions, leaves their marks on the skin – and this is part of living fully.

Aging is living

As it shows The Substanceliving fully means allowing yourself to feel, smile, cry and get emotional. The wrinkles and marks that appear over the years are testimony to a life well lived. The only way to avoid wrinkles would be to avoid living, and that would be an empty existence.

The value of memories as you grow older

In addition to physical marks, aging also brings us valuable memories. Looking at the past, reflecting on the moments lived and the achievements achieved is something that only maturity provides. These memories add value to the person we become and are an essential part of aging.

Preventative care is welcome

Of course, we can all (and should) invest in preventative care to maintain a healthy appearance. The use of sunscreen, a balanced diet and skin care are recommended practices. Plastic surgery and procedures such as face lifting can also be options for those looking to improve self-esteem. However, the objective should not be to go back in time, but rather to age in a beautiful and healthy way.

The future of aging

If everything goes well, the expectation is that we will live longer and better. Ideally, as the years go by, the obsession with aesthetics gives way to pride in who we have become. The film The Substancewith Demi Mooremakes us reflect on the future of aging and how we can embrace it with more serenity and respect.

The beauty of aging

Aging is inevitable, and it doesn’t have to be a negative thing. The Substance provokes us to reconsider our view of the aging process, encouraging broader and healthier acceptance. The important thing is not to reverse the signs of aging, but to value the experiences that shape us throughout our lives. Check out the trailer:

Summary for those in a hurry:

• The Substancestarring Demi Mooreaddresses the impact of the term anti-aging.
• the term anti-aging is criticized for reinforcing a negative view of aging.
• Aging is a natural process, not a disease to be fought.
• Asian cultures respect the elderly, while the West glorifies youth.
• Surgical procedures should focus on healthy and natural aging.
• The film questions the obsession with aesthetics and encourages a more positive acceptance of aging.