Beauty Trends have Gone too Far
Throughout time, societal standards have created immense pressure on women to conform to ever-changing beauty trends. From perfect body shapes, to flawless skin, these ideals often dictate social acceptance and self-worth. Media and fashion industries also play a role, portraying unrealistic standards that lead many women to seek after unattainable goals. This constant pursuit can result in unhealthy amounts of stress, pushing women to meet expectations that are not healthy or realistic.
Image Courtesy: Instagram
Beauty trends have evolved dramatically over the years, shifting from simple techniques like mastering winged eyeliner to more obsessive patterns characterized by overconsumption and extreme measures. Initially, beauty routines were meant to focus on enhancing natural features with few products. However, an overwhelming selection of skincare and makeup items are now marketed to women as necessities. This facade encourages consumers to believe that more products create better results, leading to unnessecary routines and overconsumption
The pursuit of these ideals have worsened in recent years, with the misuse of weight loss medications like Ozempic. Originally intended to aid specific medical conditions, ozempic is now being used off-label for quick weight loss. This can lead to serious health risks and creates unhealthy body standards. The overuse of cosmetic procedures such as Botox has also become a prevalent trend. Excessive use of such procedures can result in unrealistic looks. For example, “pillow face,” where facial features appear overdramatic and unnatural, is the result from the overuse of filler.
These beauty trends can significantly impact mental health by depciting ideals to women that are oftentimes unattainable. Constant exposure to these facades can lead to body image issues, as individuals compare themselves to unrealistic standards. This pressure can result in mental health issues and eating disorders. This strive for perfection can create a negative self-perception, and instill behaviors of anxiety and depression in impressionable women.
Social media influencers play a large role in promoting these trends by showcasing products and routines to their large followings. These influecers are often idolized, setting the standard for what is considered attractive or fashionable. Such curated posts can have a powerful impact, encouraging followers to mimic their appearance and lifestyle. This can therefore amplify societal pressure to conform to these trends.
Beauty trends have escalated from simple techniques to a culture of overconsumption and extreme measures to achieve a certain look. This includes the misuse of weight loss medications and cosmetic procedures, leading to unnatural appearances and various health risks. The pressure to conform to these exaggerated beauty standards can have damaging effects on mental health as well. This shift in beauty culture underlines the harsh reality that these trends have gone too far.
Strike Out,
Lydia Corbin
St. Augustine
Editor: Maya Kayyal
Lydia Corbin is a blog writer, journalist, and production assistant for Strike Magazine. She is receiving her BA in Communications. You can reach her at lydia@lydiacorbin.co or on Instagram at @lydiarcorbin.
