Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: the toxicity of body checking trends

Photo from pinterest.com

When you look in the mirror, what do you see? Do you see someone confident and strong, embracing every aspect of themselves? Do you see someone who prefers to hide themselves as much as possible On TikTok, body-checking trends are allowing girls to compare themselves to one another in the unhealthiest of ways.

Body-checking trends, also known as beauty-checking trends, have taken over on TikTok. In the past few years, there have been dozens of trends on the app that revolve around showing off a physical trait that the world deems desirable. Last fall, girls on the platform were posting their noses from a side view. The purpose of this trend was to show off their “button noses.” Another trend recently shows women comparing themselves to their ex’s new girlfriend, while implying that the new woman is not as attractive. When we start comparing ourselves based on superficial qualities, things can take a dangerous turn.

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It has become a trend to show off “desirable” traits. The envy we feel for others drives us to highlight the parts of ourselves we know people will like. But decides in the first place about what is desirable in a person’s appearance? Beauty standards are tailored to a very specific type of person — usually girls with a thin frame and light skin. The so-called “button noses” that sparked a popular trend are a feature most commonly seen on women of European descent, completely erasing women of other ethnicities and races.

Photo from Pinterest.com

Despite the popularity of body-checking trends, themes of inclusivity are becoming more prominent in our culture. Look at brands like Fenty or Aerie. Fenty by Rihanna created the widest range of foundation shades Sephora has ever seen. Aerie stopped photoshopping their models and hired women of all shapes and sizes. This is what the people want to see. TikTok body-checking trends feel more like a step backward.

Photo from Pinterest.com

Even though you might think a trend is just a trend, it’s not. It’s much more than that. What becomes popular in our culture reflects what’s important to us. The world is entering an era of equality and diversity, becoming more accepting every day. Young women are emerging as leaders for the next generation. We don’t want to be remembered this way. We want to be remembered for celebrating everything that makes each girl so unique.

What do you think of beauty checking? Let us know on our Instagram @VALLEYmag.

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