Understanding Generation X in Aesthetic Medicine

As a member of Generation X myself, I know the nuances, needs, and motivations that define my dynamic, often-overlooked segment of our population. We are striving not only to look good but also to feel good—smarter, healthier from the inside out, for longer, and with more evidence-based medical intention than ever.

This issue explores Generation X not just as a demographic in isolation but as a clinical and self-reflective mindset. We are the patients and the providers who have “been there, done that, seen it, and tried it ourselves” when it comes to aesthetics. We have seen the rise and fall of the latest and greatest trends that have now come full circle; we have seen the pendulum swing over the course of our clinical careers. We have both administered and been treated with neurotoxins, fillers, biostimulators, and laser treatments. Now, we are asking what is next, not only for our patients but for ourselves. As we hit midlife (by the way, when did we become the “older” providers in the room?), we are increasingly drawn to regenerative technologies, longevity-enhancing approaches, and treatment strategies that deliver noticeable results with minimal downtime. We are seeking more refined, tailored solutions because we have learned what works and what does not for our faces and our skin.

Understanding Generation X means recognizing a patient who is informed, invested, and often juggling multiple priorities, including family, career, health, and time. These are patients who still value expertise and credentials (crazy, right?), who do their research on different procedures and products, and who still believe in the knowledgeable authority of a qualified provider.

Our job is to provide empathy, innovation, and clinical precision. I hope this issue inspires you to think differently about your approach to Generation X, because we’re not finished yet. In fact, we are just getting started.