The real campaign: The role of authenticity in the effectiveness of advertising disclaimers in digitally enhanced images

In a series of three experimental studies, this research examines the effects of a retouch-free vs. retouched disclaimer on appearance satisfaction, advertising effectiveness, and evaluation of other women. Our results show the positive effect of a retouch-free disclaimer on appearance satisfaction, attitude toward the ad, and purchase intentions (Study 1) based on authenticity and its components: realism and meaningfulness of the ad (Study 2). Interestingly, results are in the opposite direction considering the evaluation of other women, who are evaluated as less attractive when exposed to a retouch-free disclaimer (Study 3). This study provides valuable insights from a theoretical and managerial perspective on how marketers can appeal to Millennials without overtly telling them they are authentic.