We have all seen her — the 'perfect' woman: the French girl strolling through Paris in a slightly wrinkled shirt, the girl with flawless skin and a 'five-minute' makeup look, or the woman in a simple white t-shirt who looks stunning. She seems effortless, and the world convinces us that it should be this way. But is it really that simple — or are we believing in a well-crafted illusion of naturalness?
The Myth of 'Natural' Appearance
The secret is that natural beauty is a myth. Those no-makeup tutorials that promise a natural effect actually require foundation serums, concealers, liquid blushes, brow gels, highlighters, and at least a few brushes. What looks effortless and casual actually requires time, knowledge, and patience — this is noted by PureWow.
The romanticized image of the French girl is also not a matter of genetics. Real French women regularly visit dermatologists, invest in quality skincare, and get professional styling, masks, and hairdos. That je ne sais quoi — the 'elusive charm' — is a well-thought-out strategy, not magic.
How 'Effortlessness' Works
When society broadcasts the idea that beauty should look effortless, women fall into the trap of double standards. They need to work on themselves but not show any effort. They should take care of their appearance but look 'unobtrusive.' They must be perfect — while pretending that it costs them nothing.
Emotionally, this is draining. Physically — too. Multi-step beauty routines: retinols, laser treatments, manicures, regular hairstyling — take hours that many simply do not have, especially if a woman is juggling work, family, and caring for loved ones.
Gender Bias
There is also an obvious inequality. Men can openly demonstrate effort — going to the gym, developing hobbies, collecting things — and this is perceived as normal. But when a woman shows how much work she puts into herself, she is often labeled as extravagant, capricious, or overly concerned with her appearance.
Why It's Important to Speak the Truth About Beauty
Acknowledging that an attractive appearance is the result of effort, not a 'gift of nature,' is important for mental health. It reduces pressure, grants the right not to play the constant 'perfection' game, and allows one to be themselves.
A beautiful image can inspire, lift spirits, and boost confidence, but it should not become a competition or performance. Beauty is work, and there is nothing shameful about that.
'Natural beauty' is an appealing idea but a dangerous standard. It forces people to hide their efforts and creates a sense of guilt if something doesn't come easily. It's time to acknowledge the reality: behind an ideal image, there is always work. And true naturalness is honesty and comfort in one's own body.
