Different Perceptions of Beauty
Beauty is not straightforward to define precisely because it is subjective and can differ according to circumstances. For this reason, it has been described in different ways, and its definition continues to evolve. For example, Aristotle thought beauty was objective and could be measured. He defined beauty as symmetry (BBC, n.d.). However, other notable philosophers like David Hume and Immanuel Kant thought beauty was subjective.
The British Beauty Council now defines beauty in terms of the services and products provided by the industry. It states, “Beauty and grooming services are professional treatments purchased by consumers to enhance and/or maintain their personal appearance, presence and/or well-being. They will include categories such as treatments and tutorials for hair, nails, face and body, and cosmetic and surgical procedures” (Shapland, 2019). For our purposes, what we can pick out of the definition is that beauty is not only about physical appearance, but also related to well-being, which includes the dimension of wellness mentioned earlier.
Beauty reflects wellness, especially today when the notion of beauty is changing. Sustainable production and consumption are trendy. For example, health and skincare products are based more on holistic considerations. It has been reported that a campaign has been launched by Sue Y. Nabi, Coty’s CEO, for dictionaries to change the current definition of beauty because those definitions do not correctly reflect modern beauty. Coty is one of the world’s largest beauty companies with an iconic portfolio of brands across fragrance, colour cosmetics, hair colour and styling, and skin and body care. Coty is the global leader in fragrance, a strong number two in professional hair colour & styling, and number three in colour cosmetics. Coty’s products are sold in over 150 countries around the world (March, 2023).
Beauty Products
Beauty products are used to improve appearance, enhance
features, and help individuals feel more confident. They often focus on skin,
hair, nails, and cosmetics, and can also provide therapeutic benefits. In recent years, the wellness and beauty industries have seen a rise in natural, organic, and cruelty-free products, with many focusing on sustainability and ethical sourcing.
- Skin care. Skin care includes cleansers, moisturisers, serums, toners, and masks that hydrate, cleanse, and protect the skin, often containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Haircare. Haircare products
such as shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, serums, and oils that promote healthy hair growth, manageability, and shine. Common ingredients include
keratin, argan oil, and biotin. - Makeup. Cosmetics like foundation, mascara, lipsticks, eyeshadows, and blushes are used to enhance facial features and express personal style.
- INail Care. Nail Care includes nail polish, cuticle oils, nail strengtheners, and treatments which promote healthy nails and enhance appearance.
- Body Care. Body Care includes body lotions, scrubs, deodorants, and sunscreens that focus on skin hydration, exfoliation, and protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
In recent years, the wellness and beauty industries have
seen a rise in natural, organic, and cruelty-free products, with many focusing
on sustainability and ethical sourcing.
Beauty and Mindful Living
The connection between wellness, beauty, and mindfulness is holistic: mindfulness reduces stress that can negatively affect the body and skin, wellness practices like good nutrition and exercise improve inner health that radiates outward, and beauty becomes an intentional act of self-care and a way to honour the mind-body connection. Mindfulness turns routine beauty rituals into moments of healing, creating an internal sense of
calm that translates to an external glow.
Mindful living is defined as “the power of heedfulness in cultivating a meaningful life” (lpsonline.sas.upenn.edu, 2024). Heedfulness is the quality of being attentive and paying careful attention to something or someone. It involves being aware of your surroundings, thoughts, feelings, and responsibilities. Synonyms include attentiveness, caution, and mindfulness.
Mindful beauty is a holistic approach to beauty that focuses on awareness, intention, and self-care — rather than perfection or superficial standards. It blends mindfulness practices (like being present and compassionate toward yourself) with beauty rituals (like
skincare, makeup, or grooming) in a way that nurtures both your inner well-being and outer appearance.
Key aspects of mindful beauty
- Intentionality: Choosing products and routines that align with your values and
make you feel good, rather than just following trends. - Holistic approach. Recognizing that both inner and outer well-being are connected and important for looking and feeling your best.
- Sensorial focus. Paying attention to the textures, smells, and feel of products as you apply them, turning a routine into a mindful ritual.
Real Beauty
Beauty products are used to improve appearance, enhance
features, and help individuals feel more confident. They often focus on skin,
hair, nails, and cosmetics, and can also provide therapeutic benefits. In recent years, the wellness and beauty industries have seen a rise in natural, organic, and cruelty-free products, with many focusing on sustainability and ethical sourcing.
- Skin care. Skin care includes cleansers, moisturisers, serums, toners, and masks that hydrate, cleanse, and protect the skin, often containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Haircare. Haircare products
such as shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, serums, and oils that promote healthy hair growth, manageability, and shine. Common ingredients include
keratin, argan oil, and biotin. - Makeup. Cosmetics like foundation, mascara, lipsticks, eyeshadows, and blushes are used to enhance facial features and express personal style.
- INail Care. Nail Care includes nail polish, cuticle oils, nail strengtheners, and treatments which promote healthy nails and enhance appearance.
- Body Care. Body Care includes body lotions, scrubs, deodorants, and sunscreens that focus on skin hydration, exfoliation, and protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
In recent years, the wellness and beauty industries have
seen a rise in natural, organic, and cruelty-free products, with many focusing
on sustainability and ethical sourcing.
References
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Global Wellness Institute (2024). What is Wellness? [online] Global Wellness Institute. Available at: https://globalwellnessinstitute.org/what-is-wellness/.
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March, B. (2023). The campaign for a new dictionary definition of ‘beauty’ explained. [online] HARPER’S BAZAAR. Available at: https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/beauty/a42706042/change-dictionary definition-beauty/ [Accessed 10 Mar. 2025].
Psychology Today. (2024). Steven C. Hayes Ph.D. [online]
Available at:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/contributors/steven-c-hayes-phd.
Shapland, K. (2019). THE MEANING OF BEAUTY: A LANDMARK DEFINITION - The British Beauty Council. The British Beauty Council. [online] 20 Mar. Available at: https://britishbeautycouncil.com/the-meaning-of-beauty-a-landmark-definition/. 20 Mar. Available at:
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Sue Y. Nabi, Coty’s CEO, has written an open letter to the major dictionary houses which highlights the outdated nature of their definitions – ones which are embedded with prejudice on the basis of attributes – and their need for review. https://tks hpc.h5mag.com/hpc_today_3_2024/holistic_beauty_-_the_power_of_holistic_beauty_the_future_of_personal_care
Sun Trust, (2015) Love and Money: People Say They Save, Partner Spends, According to SunTrust Survey [online]
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