BEAUTY AS PERCEIVED INTERNATIONALLY

It is ironic, that the perception of beauty can alter to such an extent from one country to another, especially when having to “give their best” if entering a beauty contest.

Ignoring all other contestants, the perception of self is critical, which brings one to the point of the daunting task of judges!

Beauty can therefore be dominated by culture, this being paramount when in a competitive situation.

With a world engrossed with umpteen cultures, a few will be discussed below. The writer attempting to diversify to a degree.

Women of The United Kingdom, Great Britain, and England, call it what you like, are apparently nearly obsessed with darker skin. This enheartens cosmetic companies with sunbeds, do-it-yourself sprays, and darker shades of make-up.

Indian women have a great preference for lighter skin, the caste system being a constant reminder. For some homebrews like turmeric being rubbed on the skin, gives results as will Multani Mitti – a mixture of clay and witch hazel blocking the sun’s rays. There is a growing market of lighteners and parents tend to remind their daughters that fair is beautiful.

Iranians are obsessed with noses. Thousands have surgery, medically named Rhinoplasty; the facial changes being a joy in comparison to their dress code, with maximum coverage. Their skins are generally fair and well looked after adding to their beauty.

Scandinavian women have a love of water and there is plenty of it! Glacier water is very pure, and nourishment and hydration are paramount to their skins. Sunscreens are vital and products with hyaluronic acid are popular. The Sauna was invented more than two thousand years ago in Finland and enormously healthy for the body.

There are many benefits of utilizing the sauna as blood circulation is increased, toxins are eliminated, and a feel-good sensation results.

Brazilian people swear by unique methods such as the blow-out. Candle cutting with the flame whizzed around the ends of hair removing the frizz, not recommended in the West!

Botox to rebuild hair bonds and the Brazilian for shine, both sound familiar!

In conclusion, our African brothers and sisters have developed some remarkable and unique styles, adding to a growing industry not seen in certain regions of Africa.