Ricardo Ruiz, dermatologist: "AI is pushing for more and more perfect and artificial faces"

Dermatologist Ricardo Ruiz has warned that artificial intelligence is driving a trend toward increasingly perfect and artificial faces, according to his book Larga vida a tu piel. Published by La Esfera de los Libros in 2026, the book explores the intersection of science, technology, and aesthetics in the pursuit of longevity. Ruiz, founder and medical director of the International Dermatology Clinic, argues that the skin has become a battleground between scientific research, commercial interests, technological advancements, and emotional narratives. In a world where businesses sell promises of longer life and youthful appearances through supplements, peptides, medical tests, and trendy therapies, such as cryotherapy, saunas, injections, and red light treatments, Ruiz emphasizes the importance of scientific evidence. He highlights effective and affordable tools for achieving healthy longevity without relying on miracle cures. The dermatologist advocates for the role of aesthetic medicine within dermatology, stressing that while cosmetic procedures can be beneficial, the skin should not be treated as a product but rather as an organ. Ruiz criticizes the influence of digital culture and artificial intelligence on beauty standards, suggesting they push society toward more artificial and homogenized facial features. He notes that this shift leads to faces that appear increasingly alike, often due to excessive use of fillers and injectables. While some consumers have grown tired of these treatments, others continue to seek them, resulting in exaggerated features such as overly plumped lips and unnatural contours. The dermatologist acknowledges that certain women begin to resemble one another after a certain age, largely because of the widespread use of cosmetic fillers. However, he points out that this trend is beginning to change. There has been a growing fatigue with fillers, and their popularity appears to be declining. People are becoming less inclined to undergo injections that result in overly exaggerated facial features. This shift reflects a broader awareness of the limitations and risks associated with overuse of cosmetic interventions. Ruiz also discusses the concept of the “syndrome of fixation on longevity,” a clinical term used to describe the obsession with extending life at all costs. He warns that such pursuits can lead to dangerous consequences, noting that the longest-living cells are actually cancerous ones. He further cautions against drawing conclusions from animal studies, which may not reliably apply to humans. Longevity, he explains, is a complex process that involves many factors beyond just physical appearance. In addition to longevity, Ruiz touches on aging as a natural process that must be accepted. He suggests that people often stop doing things not because they are old, but simply because they choose not to. His advice aligns with the philosophy of Clint Eastwood’s quote: “Don’t let the old man in, but don’t let the child out.” This perspective underscores the importance of maintaining activity and engagement throughout life. Ruiz also addresses the relationship between aesthetics and well-being. He believes that taking care of the skin contributes to mental health and that reasonable aesthetics involve feeling comfortable with one's body. For him, aesthetic improvements should focus on correcting imperfections such as scars, angiomas, or birthmarks. He supports a personalized approach to aesthetic medicine, tailored to each individual’s unique circumstances. As the field of aesthetic medicine continues to evolve, Ruiz calls for a return to common sense and a more balanced view of beauty and aging. His insights reflect a growing concern among professionals about the potential negative effects of unrealistic beauty standards driven by both market forces and emerging technologies.