With the ongoing heyday of social media, beauty has transformed into the theater, and influencers are the lead characters. Such digital personalities, commanding millions of followers, can trigger massive influence on any post, story, or skin-care recommendation. But the behind-the-scenes of glossy selfies and aesthetic reels shows that many influencers are creating high expectations in beauty: negatively impacting mental health, self-esteem, and, interestingly, even physical health in being able to achieve such beauty criterions.
Unfortunately, what that follower sees, or at least thinks they see, is hyper-curated, glamorized, or touched-up beauty from the strange realm of unrealism. Clips flooding Instagram and TikTok show flawless skin, defined cheekbones, cinched waists, and perfectly symmetrical features. However, very concerningly, followers are unaware of the filters, apps such as FaceTune, cosmetic procedures, and intense lighting used to attain that “effortless” look.
With this illusion being sold as real, the effects are disastrous. A teenager scrolling through such images may not understand that the influencer professing “clear skin from drinking water” relies upon dermatological treatments, extensive digital retouching, and strategic lighting. The outcome? An entire generation comparing themselves to standards that are nonexistent in real life-and, hence, feeling inadequate.
But it doesn’t stop there. Influencers have gone further to endorse lifestyle ideals by promulgating the trend of “that girl” or “clean girl” aesthetics, wherein one is expected to rise at 5 am, sip green juice, meditate, journal, and somehow acquire glowing skin and a sparkling clean house-all before breakfast. It forces an otherwise unattainable type of health and wellness onto your average girl, who does not factor in genetics, impaired mental health, socioeconomic standing, and, of course, time.
Even more concerning is the ability of influencers to monetize these insecurities. From detox teas to appetite-suppressing gummies, a plethora of products are marketed to help consumers “miraculously” become thinner, prettier, or more youthful. Many of these products remain unregulated, ineffective, or downright dangerous. In some instances, influencers without medical expertise have been showcasing skincare treatments or supplements that have led to either allergic reactions or hormonal imbalances with long-term health consequences.
There is a desperate need for media literacy tailored to help young folks question what they see on these platforms. In turn, the influencers must also be held accountable for their messages: especially when such messages sway public health. At the heart of the problem is not beauty, but deception. And when that ideal of beauty is manufactured, marketed as authenticity, it fails to inspire. It misleads. And that’s something we can’t afford to overlook.
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