Breaking the Unhealthy Beauty Standards: Why We Need to Embrace Diversity
The concept of beauty has always been subjective, and beauty standards have evolved over time. However, in recent years, unhealthy beauty standards have become pervasive in our society, with unrealistic beauty expectations that are reinforced through media and social media platforms. These standards are based on narrow, homogenous definitions of beauty that exclude diversity in race, body type, and gender. This article will explore why we need to break these unhealthy beauty standards and embrace diversity.
What are Unhealthy Beauty Standards?
Unhealthy beauty standards are those that promote an unattainable ideal of beauty that requires excessive and often harmful practices such as dieting, excessive exercise, and cosmetic surgeries. These beauty standards were not developed for the average person but rather for models and celebrities who have access to expensive beauty treatments. The problem arises when these standards are adopted as the norm, and anyone who does not fit into this ideal is made to feel insecure.
The Harmful Effects of Unhealthy Beauty Standards
The constant portrayal of unrealistic beauty standards has significant negative effects on mental health and body image. The sense of inadequacy caused by the unattainable beauty standards can lead to depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. Additionally, promoting unhealthy weight loss goals can have devastating health impacts, including malnutrition, electrolyte imbalance, and bone loss.
The Power of Diversity
Embracing diversity in beauty standards is essential to promote inclusivity and healthy self-image. Beauty comes in different shapes, sizes, and colors. It’s time to shift the standards to represent the array of diverse beauty in the world. Increased representation of diversity in beauty will have a positive effect on the younger generation’s self-esteem and provide a more positive environment for people to exist in.
Who is Responsible for Making These Changes?
The fashion and beauty industry, advertising agencies, and social media platforms hold a significant impact on how beauty standards are portrayed to the public. They have a responsibility to promote a positive image of diversity, inclusivity and embrace unique forms of beauty. Consumers can also initiate a change by supporting brands that celebrate diversity and self-expression.
Conclusion
Beauty standards have come a long way, but there is still work to be done to embrace true diversity in beauty. The negative impact of unhealthy beauty standards necessitates changes in how the industry portrays standards. It’s time for the world to normalize diversity by representing the true beauty that exists, regardless of body type, color, or gender. It all begins by breaking these unhealthy standards that propagate unattainable idealism of beauty.
