Since many centuries ago, beauty standards have been a notable aspect of different cultures with their own ideals of beauty.
In the Philippines, the beauty standards have been molded by various scenarios such as colonization, globalization, and media influences. The ideals of beauty in the Philippines are embedded in its colonial past. The rise of Western beauty standards began during the Spanish and American colonial eras. These set of standards center attractiveness around lightness of the skin, a tall figure, and having a sharp or pointy nose.
Because of this, they have been perpetuated by media influences that encourage the use of whitening products which are often endorsed by celebrities with Caucasian-looking complexions and features. But in recent years, there has been a significant change in the beauty industry that welcomed a more diverse set of features that are deemed attractive to society. There is now a growing appreciation towards curvier or fuller features and morenas, or Filipinos with darker skin tones. However, these new sets of beauty standards are still shadowed by the old ones and still not fully accepted in the eyes of some, even in the media and may vary among certain regions in the Philippines.
Moreover, globalization has also played a significant role in shaping beauty standards in the Philippines. Thanks to widespread access to the internet and social media applications, Filipinos became furtherly exposed to Western beauty standards, leading many to desire features similar to influencers they see such as having sharp noses, smaller jawlines, and more defined lips. Acknowledging the impact of following beauty standards to an individual and society as a whole is essential. These standards often carry societal implications associated with attractiveness or wealth and even higher intelligence. It also shapes a sense of inadequacy and conserves discrimination towards those who do not fit or conform to them.
When an individual does not fit into certain beauty standards, it may have negative effects on their self-esteem and mental health. Even the pursuit of fitting in can make one stressed and pressured. In addition, the perpetuation of some beauty standards contributes to inequality and unfair treatment. Those who do not meet the ideals may experience exclusion from society.
In conclusion, Philippine beauty standards evolve through influences from cultural, historical, and global factors. Maintaining a certain set of beauty standards bind people to collectively see what is attractive, but it also pushes pressure to those who do not necessarily fit in.
Photo Courtesy: Phil