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How has social media changed the way people approach makeup?

Alvy Steeden

Social media has had a huge impact on the beauty industry. Before the rise of Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, people got their makeup inspiration from magazines and celebrities. Now, anyone with a smartphone can access a wealth of makeup tutorials, product reviews, and beauty influencer recommendations at their fingertips – and they don’t have to wait for a magazine to be published or a TV show to air.

One of the main ways that social media has changed the way people approach makeup is by democratizing the industry. In the past, makeup artistry was often seen as a niche skill that only professionals or dedicated amateurs could master. However, now that anyone can learn from the hundreds of thousands of makeup tutorials available online, everyday people are able to achieve professional-level makeup looks in the comfort of their own homes. This has led to a rise in self-expression and experimentation, as makeup enthusiasts feel empowered to try bold colors, intricate techniques, and unconventional styles that might not have been accessible or socially acceptable before.

Another way that social media has transformed makeup culture is the increased emphasis on individuality and inclusivity. Beauty influencers and makeup artists of all genders, skin tones, and backgrounds are sharing their expertise and creativity with millions of followers, challenging traditional beauty standards and promoting diversity and authenticity. This has resulted in a wider range of products that cater to a variety of skin types and tones, as well as a shift in society’s expectations of what beauty should look like. Instead of aspiring to look like one specific celebrity or supermodel, people are now encouraged to embrace and celebrate their unique features and personal styles.

However, there are also downsides to the social media effect on makeup. One of the biggest concerns is the pressure to achieve the “perfect” look, fueled by influencers who present a carefully curated and filtered version of their lives and beauty routines. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, as people compare their own faces and skills to those of professional makeup artists and influencers who have access to high-end products and equipment. Additionally, the sheer amount of content available on social media can be overwhelming and confusing, making it hard for people to know what products and techniques will work best for them.

Overall, social media has fundamentally changed the way people approach makeup, from the way they learn and practice to the values they prioritize and the role that beauty plays in their lives. While there are certainly challenges and complexities that come with the social media age, there is no denying that it has opened up opportunities for creativity, self-expression, and connection that were once unavailable to the masses.