By Dana Beidas

KUWAIT: When trying to define “beauty” in multiple attempts, the definitive conclusion is that it is everything and nothing at once. By saying “everything,” it is the result of a universal system that could “make or break” one’s life, determining whether a person is worthy of greatness, success and respect.

However, because this system is intentionally built to cause a constant feeling of insecurity and spread the sense of dissatisfaction within oneself throughout even the most conventionally “beautiful” people, that same system strives to produce solutions and remedies to “fix” the ugliness with the exchange of not only society’s money but also take advantage of its never-ending search for temporary allure, which in turn makes it “made-up,” there for, considered nothing.

Upon discussing this matter specifically with the people of Kuwait, the influence of Western media is undeniable. Mariam, 17, disclosed, “The world is incapable of existing without the need to put on a caricature of what they desire to be perceived as; it’s like an everlasting performance, and those aspirations mostly strive towards having “white” features.”

She further explained that it all starts young, particularly for girls; in typical forms of media like TV shows, movies, and video games, it is demonstrated that when recognizing the role of privilege in beauty, research reveals that individuals could have better outcomes in life when seen as conventionally attractive.

The thin, blonde, light-colored-eyed, light-skinned characters are more popular, get more romantic interests, have more friends, and are generally treated better than their opposites not only in their respective cinematic universe but in the eyes of the Middle East as well, which has ultimately caused a wave of insecurity among the youth. Even now, with social media being in the lead, it could be much more damaging despite its false advantage of authenticity that many subconsciously think it has.

However, one question arises: Are the people who succumb to these societal pressures truly at fault? Mohammad, 22, expressed that while they do contribute to a harmful and exploitative complex, if they are not directly harassing anyone to conform to their specific ideology of beauty, then individuals who overtake extreme measures in search of confidence should not be shamed, as it is unfortunate to say that appearance is a notable factor regarding how well you will be treated by others.

Kuwaitis’ lack of self-acceptance has resulted in the fear of aging, disordered eating, and the uproar of potentially life-ruining plastic surgery and cosmetic practices. At the same time, studies have shown that the beauty industry and the entities that provide such services have only benefited rapidly and are currently at a historical high because if there were no benefits that come with physical attractiveness, these companies would not have existed either. Hawraa, 19, added, “We have been obsessing over faulty perfection that the erasure of authenticity is at stake. Lately, everybody looks, acts, and even talks the same.”

On the other hand, Sara, 20, who has undergone a rhinoplasty, revealed, “No matter how much you get done “under the needle,” make-up and anti-aging products you use, lose weight by going on harsh restrictions, straighten and dye your hair to the point where it’s completely damaged, you will always look at others in envy and never feel enough. This lesson needs to be spread more frequently.”

“Our current way of viewing appearance directly contradicts what Islam has taught us about preserving beauty, which is the underlining message of wearing the Hijab, for example.” Khalid, 25, disclosed. Simultaneously, many think a thin line exists between invasive beauty enhancements and self-expression. With recent propositions of restricting access to cosmetic procedures came outrage from the public, saying that this would threaten bodily autonomy and the freedom of choice. “It is seen as empowerment nowadays,” he continued.

The most agreed-on aim for the future of Kuwait’s beauty standards is not to disregard it entirely but to put less emphasis on its importance in society. Muna,18, shares, “It is possible to acknowledge and criticize the existing beauty standard with its mentally sickening consequences while participating in some of those beauty practices. As women, if we completely shut ourselves out of it all, it will be impossible to live happily.”