Beauty standards are the ideas society has about what makes someone “beautiful.” These ideas can be about body shape, skin color, hair type, height, facial features, and even the way someone dresses or behaves. But the big question is: who decides these standards, and why do they change so often?
What is seen as beautiful in one country may not be the same in another. In some cultures, being curvy is admired. In others, being very slim is praised. Some societies value lighter skin, while others celebrate darker tones. Even hairstyles and clothing trends differ from place to place.
This shows one important truth: beauty is not fixed. It is shaped by culture, history, and trends.
The Role of Media and Social Media:
Television, movies, magazines, and now social media play a huge role in shaping beauty standards. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok constantly show images of influencers, celebrities, and models who often fit a certain look, clear skin, slim waist, perfect teeth, styled hair.
Many of these images are edited with filters, makeup, lighting, and even surgery. When young people see these images every day, they may start to believe that this is the “normal” way to look. This can create pressure to change their bodies or compare themselves to unrealistic standards.
The Impact on Mental Health:
Unrealistic beauty standards can affect self-esteem. When people feel like they do not fit the “ideal” look, they may feel insecure, anxious, or not good enough.
Teenagers are especially vulnerable because they are still discovering who they are. Constant comparison can lead to low confidence and negative body image. It is important to remember that what we see online is often not real life, it is a carefully selected and edited version of it.
Beauty Standards Change Over Time:
If we look at history, beauty standards have changed many times. In the 1950s, curvier bodies were popular. In the 1990s, very thin bodies were the trend. Today, beauty standards are again shifting, with more people promoting body positivity and natural beauty.
This proves that beauty trends are temporary. They are influenced by fashion, celebrities, and social movements, not by permanent truth.
The Rise of Body Positivity:
In recent years, there has been a growing movement encouraging people to love their bodies as they are. Many activists and influencers now promote self-acceptance and diversity. Brands are also starting to show models of different sizes, skin tones, and abilities.
This change is important because it reminds us that beauty comes in many forms.
True Beauty Goes Beyond Appearance:
While physical appearance is often highlighted, true beauty is deeper. Kindness, confidence, intelligence, creativity, and authenticity are qualities that make a person truly attractive.
A confident person who accepts themselves often shines more than someone trying to fit into every trend.
Beauty standards are created by society, influenced by media, and constantly changing. They are not rules we must follow. Instead of chasing every new trend, it is healthier to focus on self-care, confidence, and self-acceptance.
In the end, beauty should not be about fitting into a narrow box. It should be about embracing who you are, because real beauty is not about perfection, it is about being real.
Brenna AKARABO
RADIOTV10
