Beauty is concerned with physical and mental health as both are intimately related.
Short-term decisions to alter one’s body structure irrespective of genetic, environmental, occupational and nutritional needs can leave medium- and long-term effects.
This analyzes the role of social media and its effects on the standards of beauty. The researchers have summarized the literature on how social media plays a role in affecting beauty trends, body image and self-esteem concerns. There is support that social media affects individuals negatively, in pushing them to engage in life threatening beauty trends due to social compliance and acceptance in society. The aim was to review social networking sites’ impact on perception of standards of beauty and newer unrealistic trends gaining popularity that could alter opinions and also cause harm to individuals in the long run.
This is an emerging area of research that is of high importance to the physical and mental health in the beauty, health and hospitality industry with the latter being manifested in depression, anxiety and fear of non-acceptability and being seen as a social gauche.
The fashion industry has long played a significant role in shaping societal beauty standards and promoting unrealistic ideals of the "perfect" body.
This has had detrimental effects on women's body image, self-esteem, and mental health.
Narrow Definition of Beauty: The fashion industry often promotes a narrow and limited standard of beauty, emphasizing thinness, youthfulness, and specific physical features. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt among women who don't fit into these narrow beauty ideals.
Unattainable Body Standards
The use of photo editing, airbrushing, and unrealistic portrayals of models in advertisements perpetuates an unattainable standard of beauty. This can create unrealistic expectations and pressure on women to conform to these ideals, often leading to dissatisfaction with their own bodies. Constant exposure to unrealistic beauty standards can contribute to poor body image and low self-esteem. Women may feel a constant need to compare themselves to the images they see in fashion magazines, on social media, and in advertising, which can have a negative impact on their mental well-being.
Promoting Healthy Body Image
Fashion brands can take steps to promote healthy body image by showcasing a range of body types, using models of different sizes and ages, and avoiding excessive retouching and manipulation of images. This can help women see themselves represented and valued in the fashion industry.
Educating and Empowering Consumers.
It is important for individuals to be critical consumers of media and fashion imagery. By recognizing and challenging unrealistic beauty standards, women can develop a healthier relationship with their bodies and focus on self-care, self-acceptance, and overall well-being.
By addressing the issue of unrealistic beauty standards and promoting body positivity, the fashion industry can contribute to empowering women and fostering a more inclusive and accepting society. Celebrating diversity, embracing realistic representations of beauty, and encouraging self-love and acceptance can have a profound impact on women's mental health and overall happiness.
Want to Support St Vesti?
An easy way to do this is by shopping at www.stvesti.com or you can support our work by sharing this with a friend.
