A new study has revealed exactly which cosmetic procedures Brits are researching the most – and the results show that non-surgical skin treatments are leading the way. From collagen-boosting microneedling to laser hair removal and lip filler, Google data suggests that aesthetics has firmly entered the mainstream, with millions turning to search engines for advice, inspiration and treatment options.
Website specialists ProfileTree analysed monthly UK search volumes and Instagram hashtag data across dozens of cosmetic procedures, ranking them from most to least popular. Their findings highlight a clear shift toward minimally invasive treatments, big social media influence and a growing national curiosity around “tweakments”.
Microneedling Takes the Top Spot
With 42,546 monthly searches, microneedling is officially the UK’s most-wanted cosmetic procedure. It also boasts more than 6 million Instagram mentions, reflecting its huge presence across beauty feeds.
Known for stimulating collagen and improving skin tone, texture, acne scarring and fine lines, microneedling has become a favourite due to its effectiveness and lower downtime compared to more intensive procedures. According to the study, interest peaks in Birmingham, where demand for skin-rejuvenation treatments is particularly high.
Laser Hair Removal Comes in Second
In at number two is laser hair removal, with 40,142 monthly searches and nearly 4 million Instagram mentions. Its long-term results and convenience continue to make it one of the UK’s most sought-after beauty investments.
Residents in Reading search for this treatment more than any other UK city, highlighting how mainstream and accessible laser has become compared to a decade ago.
Brazilian Butt Lifts Rank Third
The Brazilian butt lift (BBL) remains a highly searched procedure, landing in third place with 30,467 monthly searches and substantial social traction. Its popularity is fuelled by body-contouring trends and celebrity culture, though it also remains one of the more controversial surgical options.
Interest peaks in Oxford, which records the highest search volume for BBLs.
Hair Transplants and Lip Filler Complete the Top Five
Hair transplants take fourth place with 26,651 monthly searches, driven by growing awareness around male and female hair loss solutions. Instagram mentions exceed 3 million, reflecting the increasing number of public figures documenting their experiences.
Lip filler ranks fifth with 23,725 monthly searches, cementing its position as one of Britain’s most common aesthetic treatments. Birmingham once again takes the lead for local interest.
Other Highly Searched Procedures
The rest of the top 10 shows a blend of non-invasive and transformative treatments:
- Microblading – 20,382 searches, 32 million Instagram mentions
- Botox – 19,055 searches, 25 million Instagram mentions
- Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) – 18,157 searches
- Dermaplaning – 17,164 searches
- Chemical Peels – 13,670 searches
These findings highlight a consumer shift toward routine-style skin maintenance, with dermaplaning, peels and microblading suggesting a more holistic approach to complexion and features.
The Least Popular Procedure? Earlobe Reduction
At the bottom of the list is earlobe reduction, receiving only 26 searches per month nationwide. It’s also one of the least talked-about procedures on Instagram despite a growing trend in earring-related stretching or tearing treatments.
Why Interest in Cosmetic Procedures Keeps Rising
Ciaran Connolly, Founder of ProfileTree, notes that social media is a driving force behind the surge:
“Platforms like Instagram have amplified the visibility of cosmetic treatments. People are inspired by the transformations they see online, and one in three Brits say social media has made them want facial cosmetic surgery.”
According to BAAPS data referenced in the study, more than 27,000 surgical procedures were performed in the UK in 2024 – a 5% rise on the previous year. What was once niche has now become part of everyday self-care conversations.
