In a world where all forms of beauty should be celebrated, the beauty industry has often lacked inclusivity and representation. However, we are now seeing a shift, as beauty brands around the world take a stand for diversity and create products that are created for all people. In this article, we will explore the movement of inclusive beauty that is celebrating diversity and representation in the beauty industry.
1. Embracing Inclusiveness in the Beauty Industry
In today’s world, the beauty industry is one of the most powerful forces in the media. Although the industry continues to reach new heights of success, there is still a long way to go in embracing inclusiveness. By learning to be more inclusive, the beauty industry can offer more accurate representations and promote a more tolerant, progressive society.
Understand Cultural Representation Different ethnic communities need and deserve to see their faces represented in the media. This can be achieved by using models of an array of backgrounds and cultures. This can help viewers build representation within media and feel more connected to what they see.
Encourage Positive Self-Perception In order to appeal to a larger audience, the beauty industry must learn to promote a positive self-image and self-confidence instead of unrealistic standards. Brands should refrain from pointing out flaws and instead encourage self-love and confidence.
Appeal to All Ages and Genders Many times, the beauty industry is accused of catering to a very specific consumer type. To avoid this dilemma, brands should ensure that content appeals to all genders, cultures and ages. To promote inclusivity, create campaigns that are authentic and meaningful to everyone.
- Understand cultural representation
- Encourage positive self-perception
- Appeal to all ages and genders
2. Celebrating Diversity Through Representation
In today’s society, diversity and inclusion are becoming increasingly important in all aspects of life including community and the workplace. Representation matters and celebrating diversity is a way to support these values. Here are a few ways to do so:
- Encourage open-mindedness – create a safe and comfortable space for to individuals to express themselves and their cultural backgrounds without fear or judgement.
- Learn about different backgrounds – engage with others to learn more about their socio-cultural experiences and how they may be different from yours.
- Highlight positive representation – celebrate and recognize those making an effort in the media to portray positive stories in each cultural background.
- Speak up when something isn’t right – when you witness an inappropriate or inaccurate representation of a cultural, don’t be afraid to speak up.
These are just a few examples of how we can create a more diverse and open-minded society by . Of course, it is also important to walk the walk when it comes to embracing inclusivity. This includes hiring from a variety of backgrounds, creating opportunities for all, and working towards a society that is free from discrimination and embracing of everyone’s differences.
It is also essential to recognize that nuances between different cultures can be complicated. can be as simple as just listening to one another, being accepting, and approaching one’s views with an open-mind.
Lastly, don’t forget to have fun! Celebrating diversity doesn’t have to be a serious matter. Create fun events, contribute to the community, and have passionate conversations with curiosity. The important thing is that we embrace different perspectives and continue to celebrate diversity through representation.
3. Reclaiming Beauty Standards in the Modern Era
Since the dawn of time, beauty has been seen through a different lens from era to era. But now, with generation after generation of women feeling powerless to force a change within the previously held conventions, an uprising of reclaiming beauty standards has taken place.
Young and old women alike are encouraged to love their natural beauty without worrying about normative definitions of what’s considered to be “beautiful.” Whether this is through redefining what it means to have a “perfect” body or instilling confidence that doesn’t rely on fitting a mold—it’s all about loving oneself just as is, and radiating that positivity to those around you.
A few examples of reclaiming beauty standards are:
- Celebrating variations in body type, color, age, or orientation
- Dismantling the idea that only certain appearances are held to a higher standard than others
- Highlighting people who use beauty to express themselves on their own terms
- Acknowledging that beauty is subjective and can be showcased in many forms
Ultimately, it’s about breaking away from imposed expectations of what one should or shouldn’t look like. Beauty is a broad spectrum—and it’s up to us to teach and spread that idea. Be brave. Venture away from conforming to beauty standards, and free yourself from the narrow-minded perceptions.
4. Diversifying the Path to Self-Love
Sometimes our journey to self-love feels like an uphill climb. Every single one of us is on our own journey and there’s no set path to getting to the top. So why not let go of what we think it’s supposed to be and explore a more diverse route?
Spend Time Outdoors Nature offers a wonderful opportunity to nourish our spirit and appreciate who we are. Get out in the sunshine, watch the clouds float by and take a moment to appreciate your uniqueness. Feel the wind in your hair and the rhythm of the world all around you.
Indulge in Intentional Self-Care
- Treat yourself to a massage, or spa day
- Bake yourself a delicious dessert
- Take a relaxing bath with essential oils
These are just a few ways to show yourself love and care. When we’re intentional with our self-care, it nurtures our heart and soul. We may even start to recognize how good we have it—and start to feel good about ourselves as a result.
Challenge Your Negative Thoughts We sometimes forget to challenge the negative thoughts we tell ourselves. When the inner critic starts to speak, how can we redirect this energy? A good strategy is to ask ourselves: “what is something kind I can say to myself?” It takes practice, but with each kind thought we’re re-enforcing self-love.
When it comes to beauty, we’re all in it together. The increasing focus on diversity and representation in the beauty industry is creating a more open and inclusive environment, where everyone is welcome. As more brands embrace and promote this message of inclusivity, the possibilities are becoming endless. We look forward to a future of beauty where all are celebrated and embraced.
