A Never Ending Expectation The Millennia Old Consequences of Beauty Standards

A Never Ending Expectation The Millennia Old Consequences of Beauty Standards By Camryn Bland Youth Columnist Growing up we are often taught, “what matters is on the inside.” Every individual is made of inspiring strengths through their personalities, hobbies, and achievements; attractiveness and aesthetics are the least interesting aspects of a person. This reminds us to judge others by their character, not appearances, as there is much more to know than what’s on the outside. This is a lesson still important today. However, it is difficult to prioritize when constantly surrounded by contradicting messages. Our society places overwhelming attention on beauty and aesthetics, making it impossible to overlook the appearances of both yourself and others. Beauty standards have existed for thousands of years, playing a large role in the history of our society. Thousands of years ago, expensive accessories and symbols of wealth were what defined beauty. A few centuries ago, both women and men were expected to be full-figured, as a sign of prosperity. In recent years, standards have shifted, glorifying small bodies and clear skin. Time period is not the only factor which changes expectations; even now, standards vary based on the region and culture you are immersed in. In North America, women are expected to be thin, with an hourglass figure. Men are desirable if tall and muscular, with masculine features. Slim and pale body types are seen as attractive in East Asia, which contradicts the tanned and curved ideal of Europe. Although these standards change based on time period and location, there is one thing they always have in common; their effects on mental and physical health. From unhealthy skin products to body dysmorphia, beauty standards have been negatively influencing individuals for millennia, as they fight themselves for the “perfect body.” As a teenager, I am no stranger to beauty standards. I constantly find myself comparing my appearance to that of others. I overanalyze every outfit, constantly reapply makeup, and have an overcomplicated skincare routine. I panic at any sign of imperfection, whether that be a pimple, weight gain, or a bad hair day. Despite understanding the insignificant nature of beauty, I cannot help but critique every aspect of my own appearance. Following beauty standards is about more than a quick hairstyle or makeup tutorial. They control body image and insecurities in an extremely damaging way. In North America, the idea of the perfect, thin body is forced onto every young girl, leaving millions of teenagers and young adults dissatisfied with their bodies. Individuals force themselves into a mold much too small through diet, binges, or purging, all for nothing. The reality is, no body is the same. It does not matter how little you eat or how many workouts you do, you will not be able to perfect yourself in the way you hope. As people continue to pursue their dream bodies, their mental health may continue to decline. Regardless of how hard you work to achieve perfection, you may never surrender the dream of being a little skinnier, a little stronger, a little prettier. Satisfaction with your appearance seems impossible, which is where so many mental health problems originate. Body dysmorphia, anxiety, and countless eating disorders can be inspired by the need to match beauty standards. It is a system which strives off insecurities and struggles, and in 2025, it’s stronger than ever. Millions of people worldwide struggle with body image, each in their own way. They chase their dream bodies, in hopes they will one day achieve perfection. The issue is, the finish line keeps moving, as the idea of beauty continues to shift. A perfect body is unattainable, as it is impossible to please anyone. Yet, individuals continue to obsessively diet, workout, or purge in attempts to reach the unattainable. These actions may seem insignificant, but if taken to the extreme, can be fatal. Symptoms may begin small, however, rejecting a snack can soon lead to skipping three meals a day or purging every calorie. This lifestyle will only lead to dissatisfaction and anxiety, and in time, these habits may make it impossible to survive. Beauty standards and body image are not insignificant issues regarding hairstyles and fashion sense. Instead, they are dangerous expectations which have been ruining lives for thousands of years. Our society places an immense emphasis on physical beauty, which can destroy the confidence of any individual. This is not an issue focused on one gender, age group, or culture; it is a global tragedy which society needs to stop normalizing. The irony of body image is that you will never please everyone. Each culture has their own expectations concerning skin, weight, and style. What one culture sees as skinny, pale, and fashionable may be seen as overweight, tanned, and unattractive to another. It is impossible to reach every beauty standard, to be seen as perfect by all. Instead of chasing an unattainable standard, chase what makes you happy, confident, and satisfied. As individuals, we are made of more than our looks, we are made of our personalities and character. As a society, we need to leave behind our lives of insecurities and unrealistic standards, and embrace a new age of individuality and acceptance.