In this generation, it seems that the beauty standards in the Philippines are more likely based on what we usually see in social media. It became the platform where people share information that they thought is relevant when it comes to the “beauty world.” Who doesn’t want to be beautiful? We all want to be one, especially today with physical appearances, mostly matter.
In terms of beauty, honestly speaking, looks will be the first thing that we notice before we learn the people's characteristics. The people who lead beauty are those who influence us like celebrities, idols and vloggers or influencers. Everything that they do as content really gathers attention from their followers. As a result, they became their own standard in all aspects, especially when it comes to beauty.
Today’s beauty can be “tan as you want” or “be as white as you want.” The influencers we choose are the ones who we actually look up to. Social media became our guide to the journey of having the standard.
What is today's clothing trend? Clothing is also considered a beauty standard. We were influenced by people who have their own unique fashion. If it catches people's attention, today you might be the only one wearing it, but the next day, it becomes a trend and everyone wears it. And it's obvious that social media is the one that connects us. It is shaping our perception unconsciously.
A few examples are when influencers endorse brands that are low cost but high quality. After the endorsement, the brand suddenly pops everywhere making people convince them to buy it. It was labeled as “beautiful” in society since it was used by known-people like them.
Social media indeed sets a standard of beauty in all aspects; in physical features, cosmetic things, dresses and outfits. Whatever is trending, people easily go after it. That we may negligently forget that we have our own self. We are so focused on relying on what or who is popular.
In setting these standards, we cannot avoid stereotyping. How sad this generation we have now. If you did not meet their preferred qualities, maybe for them you are just an ordinary human. As a result, many people also undergo plastic surgery just to fit in with society.
Social media is good especially when it comes to interacting with others. It’s just sad that this will also create negative diversity because it sets standards not only in a beauty aspect but in all matters.
By: Nicole Jayne Villanueva
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