Perceptions Of Beauty In Different Cultures

Whilst true beauty comes from within, external cultural beauty has different standards. What one culture finds most aesthetically pleasing, another culture will prefer the opposite…

Pale Skin

In many western cultures it is seen as a sign of great beauty to have tanned skin and a ‘sun kissed’ glow. To achieve this, both women and men will use tanning beds, tanning enhancers, fake tan, bronzer and even use makeup technique to emulate freckles. However, this is a perception of beauty that is different in different cultures. Many Asian countries abhor the sun as lighter skin is more desirable and seen as a sign of beauty, youth and wealth. To achieve these beauty standards, many apply sunscreen religiously, use skin lightening creams, wear large sun hats, covering clothing and sport “ajumma visors” to prevent the sun from darkening their skin. Makeup is also used to further lighten their complexion to achieve the pale and youthful look.

Body Scarification 

For many it is common practice to cover up scars, encourage fast healing and use makeup to disguise their presence. Scars can often be associated with traumatic events and seen as an imperfection in the skin’s surface that needs to be covered. However, in many cultures such as Africa, South America and Wetern Pacific, body scarification is a long-standing tradition. They are not only proud of their scars, but actively create them on the skin. Scars on the body can tell a story about the individual's religious role, genealogy, social or political status. Women also scar their chest and torso as this is considered intriguing and sensual.

Makeup vs ‘Au Naturel’

Makeup is a fun and creative way to express yourself and your personality, as well as being a cultural beauty standard. Some cultures find the presence of makeup as a sign of being ‘well put together’, ‘professional’ and as a way of enhancing one's beauty. However the use of makeup is not a beauty standard that is shared across all cultures. In France it is seen as a sign of beauty to opt for a more natural and makeup free look. Instead of heavy coverage, French women sway towards using light coverage and warm tones to enhance their natural beauty. This results in French men and women putting a heavier focus on effective skincare and haircare to give them an ‘effortless’ natural look.