8 Valuable Lessons You Can Learn from the Inclusive Beauty Movement
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The inclusive beauty movement advocates for a more expansive and accepting definition of what people consider to be beautiful. Gone are the days of narrow standards that exclude vast segments of the population. This movement champions diversity, challenges traditional norms, and encourages individuals to embrace their most unique qualities and with two daughters, this is a positive trend I can get on board with.
Inclusive beauty goes beyond what’s skin deep and strives to uphold an environment that celebrates representation, body positivity, and self-expression. Below is a list of the valuable lessons this movement has brought to the forefront:
1) Diversity Is Beautiful
Diversity is a central concept in inclusive beauty. This lesson urges individuals to appreciate the richness found in differences, whether they be in skin tones, facial features, or cultural practices.
As such, many people who ascribe to the idea of inclusivity are quite open to finding beauty and inspiration in a highly diverse environment. They can, for example, be inspired by individuals from various backgrounds.
It’s also not out of the ordinary for them to support brands that prioritize inclusivity and cater to a wide range of people in terms of marketing and product offerings. Adopt an open mindset yourself to expand your own beauty standards and contribute to a more inclusive narrative for others.
2) Representation Matters
That said, the significance of representation within the inclusive beauty movement extends beyond mere visibility. There is power in seeing oneself reflected in media and beauty campaigns, and in knowing that there are beauty products like makeup or clothes like women’s tights that are made to complement your unique features.
You can advance the value of representation by engaging with content creators and brands that prioritize human characteristics outside what traditionally counts as beautiful. Additionally, consider amplifying your own voice by sharing your unique beauty journey. This contributes to the narrative of inclusivity that empowers others to embrace their authentic selves.
3) Celebrate Your Own Body
Inclusive beauty challenges the pervasive narrative that dictates a singular—and often unattainable— standard of beauty. This lesson, centered on body positivity, encourages individuals to redefine their relationships with their bodies.
Take this lesson to heart and engage in positive self-talk, appreciating your body's uniqueness and surrounding yourself with body-positive influences. Doing so will cultivate a healthier self-image and contribute to a broader cultural shift towards accepting and celebrating diverse body types.
4) Beauty Products Can Be Both Inclusive and Accessible
Inclusive beauty doesn't stop at representation; it extends to the products available in the market. This highlights the importance of beauty products catering to diverse skin tones, hair types, and abilities.
To integrate this lesson into your own beauty routine, seek out brands that prioritize inclusivity in their product lines. Advocate for accessibility in the beauty industry by supporting initiatives and brands that champion a wide range of needs and preferences. Your support helps ensure that everyone has access to products that enhance their unique beauty.
5) Break Stereotypes
The movement also challenges societal stereotypes related to age, gender, and conventional beauty standards. You can do this yourself by being courageous in expressing your authentic self, free from societal expectations.
Challenge stereotypes by embracing styles and beauty practices that resonate with your identity rather than what is expected of you. Also support campaigns and initiatives that actively challenge stereotypes and advocate for a more inclusive and accepting definition of beauty for all.
6) Vouch for Your Own Empowerment and Self-Expression
An inclusive perspective views beauty as a form of self-expression, and it encourages individuals to experiment with different styles and looks. You can embody such a stance whenever you choose to explore and express your personal style without fear of judgment.
Instead of a means to attain other people’s standards and expectations, use beauty as a tool for self-empowerment. Encourage others to do the same and start roots in a community that celebrates diverse forms of beauty and self-discovery.
7) Appreciate Other Cultures
Cultural appreciation, or the acknowledgment and celebration of the diverse beauty practices and traditions across the globe, is a fundamental aspect of the inclusive beauty movement. Take part in this by actively educating yourself about beauty practices from various cultures. You can also engage in respectful conversations and give people space to share how they cultivate the concept of beauty in public and personal spaces.
When incorporating elements from different cultures into your beauty routine, do so with respect and understanding. This way, you can avoid appropriation and instead honor global beauty traditions the way they deserve to be honored.
8) Champion Beauty Education and Awareness
The inclusive beauty movement underscores the importance of education and awareness regarding the impact of beauty standards on mental health and well-being. You can bolster this lesson by thinking critically about media messages and beauty industry practices.
Educate yourself on the psychological effects of unrealistic beauty standards and share this knowledge with others. Support organizations and campaigns that promote awareness as well, and advocate for a more inclusive and compassionate beauty culture. Through education, individuals can become catalysts for positive change in the perception of beauty.
It is not difficult to make a change and to continue to learn lessons. As a mother, it is important for me to pass this on to my children and the friends and people around me. That way, we can all become agents of change and lead a world where authenticity is valued, stereotypes are shattered, and everyone is free to express their beauty in a way that resonates with their true selves. Become a champion of the inclusive beauty movement in your own way, and advocate for the world to become more accepting not only of you, but of the generations to come.
