A qualitative study examining women's experiences of an appearance-focussed facial-ageing sun protection intervention

The study was designed to investigate women's experiences of an appearance-focussed, facial-ageing, morphing intervention to show the effect of UV exposure on their skin. Forty-seven women aged 18–34 took part in the intervention: 35 women in individual sessions, and 12 in four focus groups. Transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Women were shocked about the likely effect of UV exposure on their skin. All of the women stated that they were going to make changes to their UV exposure and sun protection behaviours after viewing the images of themselves which were morphed to show the effects of UV exposure. The results are discussed in relation to suggestions for interventions aimed at women aged 18–34. It is concluded that appearance-based interventions do have a role to play in healthcare and educational settings with regards to UV exposure and sun protection intentions.

► An appearance-focussed UV-exposure intervention was conducted qualitatively.
► Transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.
► Four key themes arose, including Shock at Visible Ageing.
► All of the women were concerned about the UV damage ageing their skin.
► All of the women said they planned to make changes to their UV exposure behaviour.