From healthy eating to fitness goals, this time of year is known for inspiring people to change something in their lives for the better. With most resolutions relating to appearance, a study has found a quarter (17%) of Glaswegians spend up to one hour per day feeling self-conscious about their looks – which equates to 15 days a year!

The research, commissioned by SmileDirectClub, the industry pioneer and first direct-to-consumer medtech platform for transforming smiles, noted that nationwide Gen Z spends a staggering 36 minutes per day (8.4 days per year) worrying about their looks, which is 44% higher than the national average (25 minutes).

Meanwhile, baby boomers (55+) feel the most confident above any generation, with 60% of boomers rating their self-esteem as six or higher on a scale of one to ten. 63% of respondents under the age of 55 are not so self-assured, rating their confidence as six or lower on the same scale.

Looking at specific features people in Glasgow feel most self-conscious about, almost a third of those surveyed [38%] list their teeth as their biggest bugbear, followed by their smiles [24%], and their hair [21%]. Well over half [63%] admit they tackle their insecurity by smiling with their mouth closed.

Top Things Glaswegians feel self-conscious about 

1. Teeth [38%]
2. Smile [24%]
3. Hair [21%]
4. Eyebrows [21%]
5. Nose [13%]

Kay Oswald, President of International at SmileDirectClub, said: “It’s disheartening to learn how many people are struggling with their confidence and self-image on a day-to-day basis. Overcoming negative perceptions of ourselves is a vital step to transforming our lives and positively impacting our place in the world. SmileDirectClub is honored to help people rediscover their confidence through affordable and convenient access to a straighter, brighter smile.”

Interestingly, the study revealed that 43% said that smiling has the power to instantly make them feel better. Perhaps this is why half [50%] of Glaswegians say they would smile back at a stranger, no matter how out of the ordinary or awkward the situation. Glasgow natives also voted Julia Robert’s smile as their favourite [24%], followed by Michelle Keegan [22%], Cheryl Cole [18%], Kylie Minogue [15%] and Holly Willoughby [13%].

However, with a smile, must come a frown; according to the survey, looking at finances was highlighted as the number one thing to make somebody in Glasgow scowl [28%], closely followed by receiving the wrong takeaway [25%], being told to smile more [18%], the Monday morning commute to work [15%] and their football team losing a game [15%].