Kenyan content creator Lydia Wanjiru has sparked an online conversation after suggesting that much of the criticism directed at cosmetic procedures often comes from people who lack the financial means to access them.
Her remarks quickly attracted both support and criticism online, focusing the discussion on beauty standards, affordability, and personal choice.Lydia Wanjiru // Instagram
A Statement That Divided Opinion
By linking criticism of cosmetic procedures to financial limitations, Wanjiru placed money at the centre of the debate. Her statement suggests that access, rather than principle, may influence how people view aesthetic enhancements.
“Much of the criticism around cosmetic surgery comes from people who simply can’t afford it.”
The comment also comes against the backdrop of her own openness about undergoing cosmetic procedures. Wanjiru has previously shared that she has had a second Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) as well as arm surgery, part of a growing trend among influencers who publicly document their body transformations.
Online Reactions: Humour, Aspirations and Criticism
The comments section quickly filled with a mix of humour, aspiration, and scepticism, reflecting how ordinary users view cosmetic enhancement.
Some responses leaned into humour and aspiration:
Caroline🥰: “nikipata pesa na vile mi ni mweusi, hata kasweetie hatanifikia😂 nitakua invisible 😁”
Tashy: “Ni pesa sina😭 I manifest this cash next year… Tumbo toa… Dimples weka🤣 mtanijudge.”
Tisweva: “I would even have changed my height if I could!!! ni pesa sina.”
Others framed cosmetic changes as personal empowerment:
Paps Kahumbu: “We edit ourselves, we move on😅 we look good for ourselves.”
wambuiedna: “Amen. I will edit myself too. any day, any time.”
However, not all reactions were supportive. Some users questioned the value of cosmetic procedures:
Rosemary airbag world: “Mimi nayo, I don’t invest in places where I don’t get returns.”
Another user highlighted personal struggles with body image:
user2975412581419: “nko 24 years na 89 kg… my upper body is bigger.”
Lydia Wanjiru // Instagram
A Wider Cultural Conversation
Wanjiru’s remarks come amid a broader global debate. Nigerian reality TV personality Phyna recently made similar comments, linking cosmetic surgery to financial access.
“It’s only broke girls that think BBL is a bad thing to do. Once you touch money, you will do it.”
