How Augmented Reality Beauty Filters Can Affect Self-perception

Abstract

Augmented reality is used on visual social media platforms such as Snapchat and Instagram with filters that can be applied to the user’s face. These filters detect and transform facial features by overlaying digital masks on moving faces. Augmented reality beauty filters (ARB filters) alter the appearance of the face by conforming it to current beauty ideals. Prior to the development of ARB filters selfies could only be enhanced by retroactive photo editing. However, ARB filters adapt to facial features in real time, resulting in a unique digital beautifying process. This qualitative study explores how the use of ARB filters impacts people’s perceptions of themselves. It is based on online interviews that were conducted with eight individuals. The results are analysed within the frameworks of Extended Mind Theory and Enactivism and indicate that ARB filters may have a greater impact on people’s self-perception than retroactive photo editing.