Beauty standards exist whether we recognize them or not.
They have the power to control how we feel about ourselves and that is exactly what makes them so dangerous.
We’re starting to break down those standards and expectations that have been manipulating us for so long but still, many women are caught up in the cycle of perfection.
It’s so serious to a point where people would choose to risk their lives for surgical procedures.
Still, we can appreciate that this is a real problem that needs to be addressed. These are some of the beauty standards that you should completely stop believing:
1. Being underweight is sexy
The obsession with having the perfect body can completely ruin your life and self-esteem. We talk about the dangers of being overweight and the health consequences that come with it but there also needs to be more attention on being underweight.
If you naturally have a slim figure, that’s completely okay and that is different from starving yourself for the esthetic of being petite.
You should exercise and maintain a healthy weight but also be aware of the risks of being underweight.
2. There is such a thing as perfect skin
Having beautiful skin is definitely a huge confidence booster. Most ladies would want the freedom to walk out without feeling the need to cover imperfections or at least still look flawless even when they have no makeup on.
What we don’t realize is that the idea of perfect skin has been sold to us. When we see adverts for different skincare products, we don’t consider that there are tons of makeup and editing behind that camera.
If you don’t understand this, you will constantly be looking for a magical product to achieve this flawless glow which simply doesn’t exist.
3. 4C natural hair can’t be pretty
Natural hair can be a very sensitive subject. And sometimes the assumption is that it’s unmanageable and always looks unkempt.
The truth is that every type of hair needs to be maintained. You need to put in the effort and also you can’t expect to just wake up with amazing hair.
In case you’re struggling and still want to maintain your natural hair, don’t give up. If you give your hair the attention and patience it needs, it will thrive.
4. A voluptuous figure is true womanhood
The pressure to be thick has been a big trend even here in Africa. If you’re slim, you will keep hearing from friends or family members that you need to eat more.
It’s a common thing for slim ladies to feel less feminine and this has pushed many people to go for illegal procedures that leave them scarred for life.
If the pressure ever gets to you, remember that you don’t have to have curves and all that to be defined as a real woman.
5. Beauty is everything
The idea that beauty is everything is just an idea, nothing more. Let us not lie, being pretty helps but it doesn’t mean that it’s the only thing that matters.
It’s important to accept yourself the way you are and make an effort to be the best version of yourself without comparing yourself to anyone else.
Not everyone can be miss world and that is okay.
