In the age of skincare routines, makeup tutorials, and beauty influencers, taking care of one’s appearance has become part of everyday life. Media pafikutaikab.org reported that for many, it’s a form of self-love a way to feel confident and express personality. But psychologists warn that when beauty routines turn into obsession or self-criticism, they can harm rather than help mental well-being.
The challenge, experts say, is finding the balance between healthy self-care and unrealistic perfectionism.
Beauty as a Form of Empowerment
According to Dr. Rani Puspita, a clinical psychologist in Jakarta, beauty routines can have a positive psychological effect when they are motivated by self-expression rather than pressure.
“Engaging in skincare or grooming can be a mindful activity that helps people relax and feel in control,” she said. “It can boost self-esteem when done with appreciation, not comparison.”
In other words, beauty care becomes empowering when it comes from a place of self-acceptance, not insecurity.
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The Hidden Pressure of Perfection
However, constant exposure to flawless images online has made many people — especially women — feel that their worth depends on how they look. “Social media filters, influencer culture, and advertising create a standard of perfection that’s impossible to achieve naturally,” Dr. Rani explained.
This pressure often leads to obsessive behavior, such as constantly buying new products, spending hours analyzing minor flaws, or feeling anxious when skipping a beauty routine. Over time, this can lower self-esteem instead of building it.
“When self-care turns into self-criticism, it’s no longer care — it’s comparison,” she emphasized.
Signs You May Be Crossing the Line
Psychologists suggest watching for these warning signs that your beauty habits may be turning unhealthy:
- You feel anxious or guilty if you miss your routine.
- You frequently compare your appearance to others.
- You believe your value depends on looking perfect.
- You spend excessive time or money chasing an “ideal” image.
If these patterns sound familiar, experts recommend taking a step back to evaluate your motivations.
How to Build a Healthier Relationship with Beauty
Dr. Rani suggests a few ways to maintain balance:
- Set realistic expectations. Focus on health and comfort, not perfection.
- Practice mindful self-care. Enjoy your routine as a ritual, not a requirement.
- Limit exposure to unrealistic beauty content. Unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate.
- Appreciate your natural features. Focus on gratitude for what your body can do, not just how it looks.
“Confidence grows when you respect your body, not when you try to fix it endlessly,” she said.
The Bottom Line
Beauty care should make you feel strong, calm, and confident, not anxious or pressured. When done with awareness, it can be a meaningful act of self-love.
As Dr. Rani concluded, “True beauty isn’t about achieving perfection — it’s about feeling comfortable in your own skin.”
Source: Pafikutaikab
