In the Philippines where I came from, beauty standards play a significant role in how people perceive themselves and others. Society has a clear image of what is considered beautiful—fair skin, slim bodies, straight hair, and features that align with Western ideals. This definition of beauty is often showcased in media, advertising, and even on social media platforms. The constant exposure to these images leads many individuals to feel pressured to meet these standards, and when they can’t, it can result in a dip in their self-esteem.
The effects of these beauty standards are far-reaching, impacting both men and women, though women are particularly targeted. From a young age, people are taught that beauty is essential for success, happiness, and even love. As a result, those who don’t fit into these narrow definitions may struggle with feelings of inadequacy. They may resort to expensive beauty treatments, extreme dieting, or even undergo surgery to change how they look, all in the pursuit of acceptance and validation.
What’s concerning is that these standards are often unrealistic. No one has the “perfect” skin or body shown in advertisements, and most celebrities and influencers themselves face the same pressures to conform. Yet, it’s this filtered version of beauty that’s pushed as the norm. It’s easy to forget that real beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. When we fail to see diversity in beauty, we start to feel that if we don’t look a certain way, we’re somehow not enough.
This problem is not just skin deep. It affects a person’s mental health, self-worth, and overall sense of belonging. Instead of focusing on the diversity and uniqueness of individuals, beauty standards promote uniformity. They create an environment where people feel like they are always falling short. But true beauty should not be about fitting into a mold; it should be about embracing one’s authentic self.
It’s time for the Philippines, and the world at large, to redefine what beauty truly means. By celebrating natural features and rejecting unrealistic expectations, we can create a society where people feel proud of who they are, regardless of how they look. Only then can we break free from the toxic cycle of self-doubt and low self-esteem and embrace the beauty in our differences.
