Embrace Yourself – by Zoe Persaud
Across social networks and mainstream media, we are constantly exposed to ideal appearances and “#makeup goals.” This onslaught of how to look your best “effortlessly” ignores self-acceptance in favor of fitting societal beauty standards. Beauty standards vary around the world but usually reflect the socially constructed criteria of physical attractiveness. The pressure of fulfilling this criteria weighs heavily on people, specifically women, and reinforces insecurities and paranoia surrounding self-worth.
A study conducted in 2008 found a positive correlation between frequent use of cosmetics and anxiety, self-consciousness, and conformity. Conclusions drawn from similar data reasoned that women concerned about their appearance felt more comfortable and judged themselves to be more attractive while wearing makeup. The confidence that cosmetics provide is important, however, its use only harbors the belief that makeup is necessary to enhance social interactions and look presentable. Makeup and cosmetic adjustments meet the beauty standards of society at the cost of personal growth and self-appreciation. A survey conducted on behalf of the Renfrew Center Foundation reported that 44% of women feel unattractive without makeup.
The promotion of self-respect and self-love is often ignored in favor of beauty campaigns that easily appeal to cultural and social ideas of beauty. “There is concern, however, when makeup no longer become a tool for enhancement but, rather, a security blanket that conceals negative feelings about one’s self-image and self-esteem,” said Adrienne Ressler, a Renfrew Center national training director. Obsession with cosmetic beauty achieved through online tutorials and celebrity routines should be dismissed in order to embrace ourselves naturally and build a relationship that does not require a mask to hide behind.
Several social media campaigns have promoted accepting flaws and imperfections as aspects that create unique and subsequently beautiful people such as the #PowerOfMakeup movement that advocates for a denial of typical beauty standards or the bare-face beauty trend that rejects cosmetic assistance to embrace natural looks. Celebrities also participate in these growing movements. For example, popular singer Alicia Keys embraced a makeup-free lifestyle in an effort to show her “true self.”
“I don’t want to cover up anymore. Not my face, not my mind, not my soul, not my thoughts, not my dreams, not my struggles, not my emotional growth. Nothing,” Keys said when asked about her decision. Her dedication does not revolve around antagonizing the use of makeup but the rejection of societal pressure to wear it. “It doesn’t have anything to do with makeup or no makeup. It has to do with who you are, what makes you feel good, how do you want to express that.”
NEXT: Seeing the Best Version of Yourself – by Bella Ramirez
