Acclaimed actress Helen Mirren recently opened up about cosmetic procedures that are becoming increasingly popular with younger generations. The 80-year-old Oscar winner shared her perspective in an interview with Elle magazine.
Mirren's Balanced View on Cosmetic Changes
Mirren expressed understanding for those considering cosmetic procedures under certain circumstances. "If women or men feel seriously diminished, defeated, or depressed when they look in the mirror, and they have both the financial means and mental readiness to change it, that's fine," she told the publication.
The Social Media Influence on Self-Perception
The actress pointed directly to social media and photo editing apps as contributing factors to this trend. "Because of social media and what apps can do, you look at reality and get literally depressed," Mirren explained. She described this situation as "a very, very sad state of affairs."
A Simple Alternative to Surgery
Mirren offered practical advice for those contemplating cosmetic procedures. "Before considering anything, get really good lighting in your bathroom," she suggested. "Whenever you look in the mirror, you'll be lit beautifully and look great. It's much cheaper than getting a facelift."
The actress emphasized her seriousness about this recommendation. "Bad lighting is so depressing," she noted. "I am serious about good bathroom lighting."
Warning Against Early Procedures
Mirren specifically cautioned against plastic surgery during youth. "I think it would be a terrible mistake to get plastic surgery when you're in your twenties," she stated. "Your face changes naturally over time."
While acknowledging personal choice, she added, "I don't like to criticize people for doing what makes them happy. But trying to look like a fake picture of yourself would be terrible."
Mirren's Personal Experience with Hollywood Pressure
The conversation expanded to include Mirren's reflections on Hollywood beauty standards alongside fellow actresses Kathy Bates, Niecy Nash-Betts, Parker Posey, Cristin Milioti, and Keri Russell.
During this discussion, Mirren revealed a personal story from her early career. "I was told to have a nose job in my 20s," she shared. "Someone said, 'You'll never get work if you don't have a nose job.'"
Mirren recalled her decisive response to this pressure. "I said no," she remembered. "I didn't want to be a pretty actress anyway. I elected to be not so pretty."
This revelation adds personal context to her current views on cosmetic procedures and beauty standards in the entertainment industry.
