Beauty in the Age of Filters: Are Our Standards Still Real?

When was the last time you used a filter on your social media posts? Most likely, quite recently. In today’s world, where social media reigns, filters have become a regular part of life. So much so that when someone doesn’t use a filter, the image may appear particularly raw. Our minds are becoming more accustomed to filters as the norm, which, in turn, is affecting our beauty standards.

The Filter Effect: How We Got Here

As social media continues to evolve, so do the filters that follow. Gone are the days of the 2010s beloved “Valencia” filter, which reminds us of simpler times before complex algorithms. Now, many of today’s filters do more than adjust the photo’s color; they can also plump lips, smooth wrinkles, narrow noses, and more.

These filters seem to reflect the mainstream beauty looks we have seen more frequently. Known as “Instagram face”, this phenomenon can be seen across social media influencers with the same features repeated: small nose, large eyes, and sculpted cheekbones. These filters have also become so sophisticated that they are almost undetectable. This has blurred the line between “enhancement” and “transformation”.

The Real-World Impact

So, where does this leave the everyday person who uses social media daily? Most likely, our ideas of what is achievable are becoming skewed. This seems to be having a noticeable impact on people of all ages.

One example is the rise of body dysmorphia. Studies have shown that people who spend more time on social media have a higher chance of developing body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).

Another example is the negative impact that social media can have on teens and young adults. Social media exposes users to potentially thousands of images every day, including fitness models, celebrities, and influencers. This can lead to an unhealthy internalization of beauty ideals that are unattainable, resulting in dissatisfaction with one’s appearance.

One study found that after reducing their screen time over three weeks, participants reported significant improvements in their perception of their overall appearance and body weight.

In short, social media and filters don’t seem to be doing us any good when it comes to loving ourselves.  But here’s the thing… just because social media has become a regular part of everyday life, that doesn’t mean we have to give in to the unattainable beauty standards we often see. And for those who want to change their appearance, natural, barely-there results are possible.

Finding Balance in a Filtered World

It is clear that we as a society have started to understand the psychological dangers of unhealthy beauty standards that social media and filters can pose. This is evident in the emerging attitudes toward social media consumption, with tools like “Brick” and “Bloom” becoming more popular, which are designed to reduce screen time. People are also changing their desired results when it comes to cosmetic procedures and plastic surgery.

More people are opting for more natural outcomes, seeking results that complement their natural features rather than completely change them. At the Gallery of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Sadati and Dr. Tehrani work together to create these natural-looking results, enhancing your unique features for a beautiful and subtle result.

Our surgeons view each individual’s face and body as unique rather than employing one-size-fits-all protocols. Harmony and balance are key, and we take the time to ensure that each patient looks and feels like themselves, only refreshed.

Schedule a Consultation

Though social media and filters may be a part of our everyday life, society is gradually shifting perspectives regarding beauty and embracing more natural looks that celebrate individuality. At our practice, we believe that patients shouldn’t seek to appear as perfect as a filter; only the best version of themselves.

If you are seeking natural and refined results near Newport Beach, our team of board-certified plastic surgeons is here to help. Contact the Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery today to schedule your consultation appointment.