11 Silly Beauty Standards Modern Women Are Done Following

Beauty standards have shifted throughout history and across cultures. Still, some unrealistic ideals continue to persist in modern society, taking a serious toll on people’s mental health — especially among young people. Since we don’t believe in these narrow definitions of beauty, we’ve highlighted 11 outdated standards that should be left in the past.

1. Not having any wrinkles

Wrinkles are often feared because they’re one of the most visible signs of aging. Many factors can contribute to their development, including repeated facial expressions.

Hollywood actress Emilia Clarke is well known for her expressive eyebrows and animated facial features. When asked about plastic surgery and cosmetic injectables, she said, “I’m not someone who’s ever going to want to go in and get serious stuff done on my skin.”

2. Full lips

One popular trend among women is plump lips, as thin lips are often associated with aging. Many modern women wish to enhance their lips’ volume and expression, and hyaluronic acid-based fillers have become popular.

However, medical professionals warn that frequent lip fillers can cause significant harm, as the skin tissue may stretch and sag under the weight of the injected filler, exacerbating the issue. Individuals need to weigh the risks and benefits before deciding to undergo such procedures.

3. Neck lines

It’s essential to understand why necklines occur. As we age, our skin loses elasticity and becomes thinner, making it more susceptible to wrinkles and lines. Additionally, sun exposure plays a big role in developing necklines.

Society often pressures women to look young and flawless, and this standard can lead to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. Worrying about necklines can affect a woman’s mental health and self-esteem.

4. Tight belly

Many women have admitted that an undefined stomach can contribute to their low self-esteem. In an effort to get rid of a rounded belly, some women put themselves through intense diets and exercise regimes. However, medical professionals assert that a small amount of subcutaneous fat in this area is not problematic for women and is, in fact, an indicator of proper body function.

Celebrities are even more affected by these beauty standards. Jaimee Lee Curtis once said, “I want there to be no concealing of anything. I’ve been sucking my stomach in since I was 11.”

5. Clear skin

Having an even facial complexion is a common desire for most women. Cosmetic stores are stocked with various products, such as makeup foundations and concealers, while cosmetologists recommend professional peels to help women achieve flawless complexions.

However, it is important to remember that pigmentation issues may sometimes be challenging to eliminate. They are often influenced by internal factors such as genetic code, structural characteristics of cells, and hormonal imbalances, rather than external factors like the environment.

6. “Hourglass” body shape

The “hourglass” body shape has been idealized for quite some time, with those with a slim waist and proportional shoulders and hips often receiving admiring glances. However, stylists suggest that any body shape can look great with the right clothing choices.

For instance, girls with wider hips can enhance their back and shoulder lines with an accent top to balance their silhouette. Similarly, those with longer legs can try bootcut or flared pants paired with flat shoes. Instead of complaining about genetics and envying those with the “ideal” body shape, individuals can learn to enhance their unique features to feel confident and beautiful.

7. Symmetric face

While facial asymmetry is natural, some women feel self-conscious about it. Beauty experts and cosmetologists are promoting face-building classes to help women achieve symmetry. Although these exercises can be beneficial, it’s important not to focus on facial asymmetry, as it’s often invisible to others.

• Almost all faces are a bit asymmetrical. Our eyes are so used to this that they adjust without conscious thought. The odds are that no one has noticed, and they wouldn’t care if they did. © Mary Krupka / Quora
• If you are conversing closely with someone, they may notice asymmetry and not care because they are talking to a person, not examining a painting. © Donald Bodey / Quora

8. Small nose

The concept of an ideal nose that many plastic surgeons promote has become a dream for many girls. This stereotype has been internalized so profoundly that some individuals forget that an unusual nose is not a flaw but a unique feature that sets them apart.

Celebrities, such as actress Lea Michele, embrace and take pride in their unique features. Michele has publicly expressed her fondness for her nose, including its protruding bridge and hooked tip, proving that imperfections can be embraced as a part of one’s individuality.

9. Straight white teeth

While straight, white teeth may be considered the ideal, it’s important to remember that natural teeth come in all shapes and sizes, and imperfections are perfectly normal. In fact, many people find unique or “imperfect” teeth to be endearing and attractive. It is enough to develop simple habits, such as brushing your tongue, to maintain oral hygiene.

10. Wish to slow down aging

The emergence of wrinkles, mimic wrinkles, and gray hair is often a cause of concern for many women. However, scientists suggest that individuals have limited control over the biological clock’s functionality, so worrying about aging is unnecessary.

Various factors, such as environmental factors, self-care practices, genetics, and overall health, influence aging. Celebrities prove that aging can happen differently and still be equally beautiful.

11. Covering postpartum stretch marks

Many women develop stretch marks during pregnancy as the body expands quickly to accommodate a growing baby. This is completely natural and can happen to anyone. A few years ago, actress Katie Holmes shared a photo proudly showing her stretch marks, and many fans thanked her for being open and authentic.

Be sure to check out our other article about crazy pregnancy beliefs that reveal just how wild the past really was.