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The pressure on women to defy aging has long been a societal issue, but the rise of social media has amplified these expectations to an unprecedented degree. Today, young women in their 20s face a complex and often contradictory landscape, where both aging naturally and appearing to age “too soon” are deemed unacceptable.
The recent controversy surrounding 21-year-old actress Millie Bobby Brown highlights this dilemma. After entering the spotlight as a child star, Brown faced online criticism for “looking too old,” demonstrating the relentless demand for women to remain perpetually youthful. This incident underscores the impossible standards placed on women, who are expected to not only be young but also appear so indefinitely.
Research into how women perform femininity and navigate aging on social media reveals that the digital era has significantly complicated these pressures. Social media platforms have become a breeding ground for the anti-aging industry, with influencers promoting cosmetic procedures like Botox and fillers to increasingly younger audiences.
“I’m amazed at how young people are, and how they’re getting Botox at 20. It’s quite shocking,” one interviewee stated, reflecting the growing trend of preventative cosmetic interventions.
Even those who forgo invasive procedures are subject to intense beauty maintenance routines. The “high maintenance to be low maintenance” trend, popularized on platforms like TikTok, involves time-consuming and expensive beauty practices aimed at minimizing daily upkeep. Similarly, the “morning shed” trend showcases women removing layers of anti-aging products applied overnight.
These trends, often adopted by women in their 20s, reflect a shift towards preventative measures rather than reactive treatments. While some women view these routines as self-care, the detrimental effects of beauty standards on mental health cannot be ignored, with rising rates of body dysmorphia.
The pressures of anti-aging culture are further exacerbated by the rise of remote work and increased use of video conferencing, allowing individuals to scrutinize their own appearances for extended periods. AI-powered editing tools and filters also contribute to unrealistic beauty standards, creating a homogenized “Instagram face.”
Social media’s culture of commentary amplifies these pressures, with trends like “how old do I look?” subjecting women to harsh critiques from strangers. The contradictory expectations are evident in the public’s response to celebrities who undergo cosmetic procedures, with praise for “undetectable” work and criticism for “pillow face.”
The financial burden of maintaining these ageless appearances is also significant, with some young women incurring debt through credit cards and payment plans.
The question remains: how can young women navigate these relentless pressures? Embracing natural aging and allowing women to age on their own terms is a radical act of empowerment. Challenging these societal expectations collectively is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and accepting environment.
Disclaimer: This article is based on research and observations regarding societal pressures on women and aging. The opinions expressed are based on the information provided and do not constitute medical or psychological advice. Readers are encouraged to seek professional guidance for any concerns related to body image or mental health.
