Beauty Standards We Should Leave Behind
Beauty standards have always been subjective. However, society frequently imposes rigid ideals that many people feel pressured to conform to. As we become more inclusive and self-aware, we must recognize and abandon harmful beauty norms that no longer benefit us. Here are some beauty standards we should leave behind to create a healthier and more accepting world.
1. The “Perfect” Body Shape
Society has idealized certain body types for decades, ranging from the hourglass figure to the slender frames of supermodels. Beauty is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Bodies come in all shapes and sizes and deserve love and acceptance. I wish that everyone would ALWAYS celebrate diversity instead of pursuing unrealistic ideals.
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2. Flawless Skin Obsession
The quest for flawless skin has contributed to normalizing airbrushed images and extensive photo editing. In reality, skin has texture, pores, and occasional blemishes. Instead of striving for perfection, we should embrace healthy skin, whatever that may look like for each individual.
3. Eurocentric Beauty Ideals
For far too long, features like fair skin, straight hair, and narrow noses have been upheld as the standard of beauty, marginalizing other cultures and their unique traits. It’s time to uplift and appreciate the beauty in all ethnicities and celebrate features that make us distinct.
4. Ageism in Beauty
Aging is a natural part of life. As a result, society glorifies youth while stigmatizing signs of aging. Wrinkles (or, as I call them, Lines of Expression) and gray hair. Companies perpetuate a culture centered around anti-aging products and procedures. It’s time to change this narrative and celebrate aging as a beautiful and inevitable aspect of life.
5. Gendered Beauty Norms
Beauty standards often dictate how men and women should dress or groom themselves. From expecting women to wear makeup to pressuring men to have a “masculine” physique, these stereotypes limit self-expression. Beauty should be about individual choice, free from societal expectations.
6. The “No Makeup” Makeup Standard
The “natural” makeup look is often requested but requires considerable effort and various products. This pressure to appear effortlessly perfect contributes to unrealistic beauty standards. True beauty lies in authenticity, whether that means wearing bold makeup or opting for none at all.
Moving Forward
In conclusion: Breaking free from these outdated beauty standards is not just about rejecting societal norms—additionaly it’s about embracing individuality and promoting inclusivity. Let’s redefine beauty as something diverse, fluid, and deeply personal.
In conclusion, What beauty standards should we leave behind? Share your thoughts in the comments below!