If you use Instagram , in recent months you may have seen a surge in photos of your friends with ‘ plastic surgery ’ filters applied.
Whether it’s pouty lips, razor-sharp cheekbones or a pointy nose, these filters use augmented reality to show what your face would look like with plastic surgery body modifications.
While the filters are hugely popular, Instagram has decided to ban them amid concerns for users’ mental health.
Speaking to Mirror Online, a Facebook company spokesperson explained: “We’re re-evaluating our policies - we want filters to be a positive experience for people.
“While we’re re-evaluating, we will: 1) remove all effects from the gallery associated with plastic surgery; 2) stop further approval of new effects like this; 3) and remove current effects if they’re reported to us.”
Spark AR Creators, the studio that approves filters on both Instagram and Facebook, added that it hopes the change will make Instagram a more positive space for users.
In a post on its Facebook , it wrote: “We want Spark AR effects to be a positive experience and are re-evaluating our existing policies as they relate to well-being.”
The exact timings for the new policy rollout remain unclear, although Spark AR Creators added that it will ‘share updates as soon as [it] can.”
Many people have taken to Twitter to discuss Instagram’s decision, with some praising the update.
One user wrote: “I know some adults that won’t take a picture without a filter bc they’re so used to their new look, some ppl that are addicted to the ig model plastic surgery filters need to take a step back and remember that’s not how real ppl look.”
Another added: “The fact that this filter was created is already disturbing.”
However, others have condemned Instagram’s decision to remove the filters.
One user tweeted: “I promise u no one is going to get plastic surgery JUST BECAUSE of a Instagram filter... and if they do that’s their decision, why are people worried about what other people do with their bodies?”
And another wrote: “Why do people act like they care so much about body dysmorphia & mental health in these circumstances but NEVER ANY OTHER TIME???? insta’s entire app thrives off these influencers but god forbid a filter makes your lips look fuller.”
