Beauty Standards Around the World: A Closer Look
Perception of beauty is subjective. Cultural heritage, pop culture, media, and global trends often influence the general perception of beauty. In the current times, it has become even more important to understand that the standard of beauty is very distinct in different parts of the world. Beauty standards around the world are based on their distinct cultural identity, national heritage, body types, and so on.
But why is it important to understand the different beauty standards? Understanding society’s beauty standards will help you to feel more confident and beautiful in your skin. This article aims to acknowledge different types of beauty standards and to show that people of all shapes, sizes, colours, and ethnicities are beautiful.
Beauty Standards Around the World
- Beauty Standards in the UAE– The world considers the UAE beauty standards ideal for both men and women. Some of the most beautiful faces in the world belong to this region. Abayas and headscarves are chief components of fashion. The religious practices in most of the UAE expect women to wear a clean-looking jilleba that hides their bodies. Hence, the pressure to be in a particular size or shape is not too high. The burqa or headscarf hides their hair, but dark hair is normalized. The most predominant feature in this culture is the eyes; dark and deep-set eyes are preferred by most.
- Pakistan – In Pakistani culture, body hair is considered taboo for women. Hence, there is increased pressure on women to go through comprehensive beauty treatments and hair-removal treatments. On the other hand, Pakistanis are also known for their long beautiful hair, so there is pressure to maintain long hair on the women. Furthermore, fairness creams, treatments, skin bleaching, and whitening procedures are also in demand here.
- South Korea– K-pop, K-dramas, and K-beauty are the three Korean things that are taking over the world now. The beauty industry of South Korea has become a global trend, with young girls and women preferring Korean beauty and skin care products. The beauty ideals in this culture are significantly high. This culture prioritizes a small v-shaped face, double eyelids, fair skin, symmetrical eyebrows, and a slim and petite body. Overall the goal is to look young, innocent, and fresh.
- Sweden – In terms of make-up, minimal looks are attractive according to today’s beauty standards in Sweden and other Scandinavian countries. Women are expected to wear lesser amounts of make-up and keep their skin fresh and dewy. Loud lipstick colours are also not appreciated. Similar to the South Korean ideals of beauty, skin quality is central in this culture.
In summation
Global media and pop culture heavily influence today’s body standards. Euro-centric beauty ideals often overshadow ethnic and cultural beauty standards. The obsession with fair skin in several cultures does not appreciate melanin-rich skin. Nevertheless, compared to Westernized beauty standards, Arabic beauty standards are quite different. Unlike Westernised standards, beauty standards in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and so on do not promote diet culture.
If you are not feeling confident in your skin, always remember; the beauty standard around the world is evolving. Your natural beauty is revered as ideal in some corners of the world.