The Beauty of Ethnicity: Celebrating Diversity in Beauty Standards

Beauty standards have long been a topic of discussion, with many people striving to meet societal expectations of what is considered beautiful. However, these standards have often been based on a narrow definition of beauty that excludes people of different ethnicities. In recent years, there has been a growing movement to celebrate the beauty of diversity and to embrace different cultural standards of beauty.

One major factor driving the shift towards a more diverse and inclusive beauty standard is the changing demographic makeup of the United States

1. As the country becomes more diverse, it is important for the beauty industry to reflect this diversity and to create products that cater to people of all skin tones and hair types.

Another frequent system within our society that many suggest is responsible for our beauty standards is capitalism

2. The beauty industry has long been criticized for promoting unrealistic beauty standards and for perpetuating a culture of consumerism. However, there has been a recent shift towards more sustainable and ethical beauty practices, with many brands focusing on natural and organic ingredients and reducing their environmental impact.

Studies show that social expectations have an influence on young people's ideologies

3. The study shows that the existing beauty standards can have a negative impact on young people's self-esteem and body image. It is important to recognize that beauty is not a one-size-fits-all concept. What is considered beautiful in one culture may not be in another. For example, in some cultures, fuller figures are considered more attractive, while in others, a slimmer physique is preferred.

These narrow ideals are often shaped by Eurocentric beauty standards, which fail to consider the diversity of other cultures, ethnicities or backgrounds

4. These standards also largely ignore diversity in ability and gender identity, portraying non-disabled, cisgender people as the paragon for beauty. As diversity, equity and inclusion continues to evolve, it must also grow to include dialogue, respect and celebration of all of the characteristics that make us unique – body type, skin color, hair texture, and more.

In an era of makeup collections with 40 foundation colors and more spokesmodels of color than ever before, diversity at the beauty counter would seem to be accepted, even celebrated

5. Yet, if you ask influential makeup artists, hairstylists, and photographers about it, the answer is more likely: It’s a start. Compared with fashion, beauty has been quicker to act on matters of inclusivity. Driven by social media, beauty has, in the last five years, moved to welcome, and to represent, customers all along the spectrum of skin shades and gender identities.

It is time to celebrate the beauty of diversity and to embrace different cultural standards of beauty. We need to recognize that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. We should encourage people to embrace their unique features and to celebrate their cultural heritage. As Noliwe Rooks, a professor at Cornell University who teaches about the politics of race and beauty, says, "It was important for [those racial theorists] to be superior in all areas. There are a million different reasons we find certain people beautiful. But there's no denying that a lot of current beauty standards in the U.S. are based on a particular type of beauty — one that centers a type of white femininity that's only accessible to a select few"

6. Let us celebrate the beauty of diversity and embrace different cultural standards of beauty. Let us recognize that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Let us encourage people to embrace their unique features and to celebrate their cultural heritage.

Ways to Celebrate the Beauty of Ethnicity

Here are some ways to celebrate the beauty of ethnicity and to embrace different cultural standards of beauty:

Support brands that cater to people of all skin tones and hair types.

Learn about different cultural beauty practices and incorporate them into your routine.

Encourage diversity in the beauty industry by supporting brands that prioritize inclusivity.

Celebrate your own unique features and embrace your cultural heritage.

Speak out against unrealistic beauty standards and promote body positivity and self-love.

By celebrating the beauty of diversity, we can create a more inclusive and accepting society where everyone feels valued and appreciated for who they are