The Controversy Surrounding The Beauty Industry Today

The beauty industry is undoubtedly one of the fastest growing industries today. This is no surprise considering women of all ages and backgrounds undergo some sort of beauty routine in their daily lives. This culture of beauty, which continues to engulf more women, has transformed greatly throughout American history. Upon examining many of the trends in this industry, it’s evident that the purpose and goals of women regarding beauty have changed compared to the past. What was once considered just a commercial endeavor and social ritual, has emerged as a mass consumer trade. What was once considered “the perfect body”, is now replaced by a new set of ideals. Not only has this rapid growth affected the paradigms timely placed by society, but it has also prompted women to adapt …show more content…
Whether women realize it or not, the beauty industry’s heavy influence has the power to manipulate their cosmetic habits, opinions, beliefs, and self-esteems. With these new advancements in technology and the amplification in the media, becoming engulfed by the beauty industry is almost inescapable. Although the beauty industry has evolved to be more inclusive and have positive impacts on women, there is still room for improvement.

Beauty continues to have a great impact on women in American society today. A study from U.S. News & World Report revealed that “35% of adults interviewed in a survey regarding what they thought society valued in each gender stated that physical attractiveness is what society most values in women” (“Study: Women Valued…” online). Society’s growing obsession with beauty has left women on its endless pursuit. In order to fit the norms, many women will often go to great lengths and perform all the necessary actions. The desire to embody beauty also entails women to measure their beauty, on factors they can neither control nor change. This introduces elements of appraisal that associate beauty with human value.