Every day, millions of people spend hours scrolling through social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat. While doing this, we constantly see images of people who seem to look perfect. They appear to have flawless skin, perfect bodies and ideal lifestyles. However, we only see a distorted version of reality, with edited images and filtered beauty. Because of this, social media has changed the way we think about beauty. 

One of the main ways social media affects modern beauty standards is by creating unrealistic expectations. Most people use filters and editing apps to improve their appearance, by reshaping their facial features, making their skin appear smoother and enhancing their bodies. Celebrities and influencers share photos that look effortless, when in reality, they are products of careful editing and professional techniques. This constant daily exposure to thousands of “perfect” appearances creates an ideal, that is near impossible to achieve in real life. Because of this, modern beauty is seen as something that has to be perfected, and is no longer seen as something natural.

As a result, this situation can have a negative impact, especially on young adults. In recent years, I have noticed that many people my age tend to compare themselves with people they see online and might feel that they are not “good enough”. A recent research from the University of New South Wales (2023) found that even brief exposure to short-form “idealistic” videos on TikTok significantly harms appearance satisfaction and increases self-objectification in young women.  Because people tend to trust videos more than photos, they might assume that they are real and unedited. However, this isn't always the case and can again lead to unrealistic standards. Another study by Marika Tiggemann and Zali Yager shows constant exposure to idealised images on social media can make people feel worse about themselves. As a result, people constantly feel pressured to look “perfect”. Humans naturally have a tendency to compare themselves to others, and social media platforms intensify this behaviour. 

In other words, when people keep comparing themselves to perfect images they see online, they often end up feeling bad about themselves. They become critical of themselves, worry about how others see them and start to seek approval and validation in order to boost their confidence.  

At the same time, this doesn't just affect physical looks, but also mental health. Young adolescents whose brains are still developing are particularly vulnerable to this. It can have a detrimental impact and can contribute to low self esteem, anxiety, depression, social withdrawal and in some cases can even lead to eating disorders. 

It is worth mentioning that social media algorithms don't just show you random photos. It learns through what you see, like, and interact with. The more you engage, the more similar content it shows you. This creates a cycle of similar “perfect” images, which reinforces this loop that leads to unrealistic beauty standards and creates insecurities.

On the other hand, in the last few years this tendency has shifted. Influencers and other users have promoted body positivity and self love by presenting a more realistic and pragmatic approach. They have openly shared their own insecurities online as well as posting unedited photos of  themselves, with no filters. Because of this shift, people are starting to recognise and appreciate different forms of beauty, body types and skin colours for their own uniqueness, in their own appearances. This means that social media could ultimately play a supportive role in helping people accept themselves and feel more confident. 

Even though there have been some positive changes, it is still important not to forget that people only share the best parts of their life and we should be aware of this in order to avoid comparing ourselves. Instead, it would be better if we would focus on our own strengths and what makes us unique. 

In conclusion, whilst there is nothing wrong with being inspired through social media to create a better version of yourself, the goal should not be to alter your image or your personality to fit unrealistic stereotypes promoted by influencers or celebrities, by suppressing who you really are. Besides, personalities from the past who would not fit into today's ideal standards are still respected and admired for their uniqueness and individuality. 

Give us your take on the Roundtable.