Twenty-year-old Melisa Raouf is one of the 40 finalists competing for the Miss England crown.
In a world where social media and pop culture often dictate beauty standards, Melisa Raouf, a 20-year-old Miss England contestant, made headlines by challenging the norms. Her decision to compete without makeup marked a historic moment in the pageant’s 94-year history and sparked conversations about inner beauty and self-confidence. This essay delves deeper into Melissa Raouf’s journey, the impact of her choices on body image, the relationship between cosmetics and self-esteem, and the role of social media in shaping beauty ideals.
On the other hand, Raouf was the only contestant in the competition without makeup and the first contestant to do so in 94 years.
She wanted to challenge the portrayal of beauty conventions on social media and promote inner beauty.
It means a lot to me because I believe many women of different ages wear makeup because of peer pressure, Raouf said.
“We shouldn’t be forced to wear makeup on our face as long as we are comfortable in our own skin. Every person is unique with their flaws that make them who they are. Because we all know that true beauty is found in simplicity, I believe, that people should appreciate and accept their flaws and imperfections.
Bare-faced Miss England candidate
This year, the Miss England contestant is the first to refuse to participate in the barefoot stage of the competition. Raouf described his decision as a “daunting but wonderful experience”.
In the final, she intends to compete without make-up. When Raouf was a little girl, she started using cosmetics because she was self-conscious about her appearance.
I never thought I would meet beauty standards, she said. I decided to attend without makeup because I recently realized that I am beautiful in my natural body. Even though I am completely hidden by cosmetics, I still have confidence in myself. I don’t hesitate to share who I am because I am me. I wanted to present Melissa as she really is.
Throughout the pageant, several young girls and ladies stood by Raouf’s side as he gave them the confidence to feel better about their own beauty.
“I want to help all women feel great, especially since mental health is such a hot topic. Simply put, I want to get rid of all beauty standards. I believe that every woman is attractive in her own unique way and I believe that I am achieved for all girls.
During the competition, Raof advocates for children’s mental health and promotes Papyrus, a UK-based youth suicide prevention group.
Miss England pageant director Angie Beasley launched the bare-faced phase in 2019 after seeing that most images of contestants were heavily edited and covered in make-up.
She wanted to empower women to “show us who they really are without having to hide behind makeup and social media filters,” and she planned to do this by encouraging them to do so. In order to participate, contestants had to post a photo of themselves on the Internet in which their faces were completely bare.
We wish her the best of luck in winning Miss England. It conveys an important message to young women, which is quite brave considering that everyone else is wearing cosmetics. As for Rauf, Beasley stated.
Body image, social networks, and cosmetics
A person’s view and feelings about their own physical appearance are inherently a body image. This perspective can be influenced by a wide variety of factors, including assumptions, experiences, and generalizations. Although traditionally people have valued beauty, these standards have changed over time.
Social media and popular culture constantly push contemporary conventions, which has a significant impact on how people view their bodies.
A person with a negative body is someone who is often dissatisfied with their appearance. By contrasting themselves with others, they risk judging themselves harshly. They may experience an impulse to frequently examine their bodies in the mirror, on a scale, or using other tools.
People could also feel uncomfortable and ashamed of their bodies. Poor body image can sometimes lead to unnecessary procedures, inappropriate weight loss methods, and mental health issues.
Body images can be influenced by messages sent by the media, society, family, and friends. The fashion and beauty industries in particular promote negative perceptions of what is considered attractive.
As people grow older, they often learn about an ideal appearance that is actually artificial and unattainable. This has become a problem as individuals only post their most attractive photos on social media. People then develop incorrect ideas about what bodies should look like.
A non-significant 2018 study found a link between problem eating, poor body image, and the amount of time spent on social media, especially when users read content from models or fitness experts who emphasize appearance.
On the other hand, if used wisely, social media can promote the promotion of a positive body image.
If you feel bad after browsing, take a break for a while, whether it’s a few hours, days, or weeks. Taking a nap can significantly improve a person’s mood.
Unfollow accounts that depress you and make you feel inadequate, as well as follow upbeat ones instead. Find a group of receptive people who also change their views on ideas of beauty.
Many body-positive Instagram accounts discuss the reality of these standards and provide tips on how to feel more comfortable in your own body. Miss England finalist Melisa Raouf is one example of an influencer who promotes inner beauty.
A person who has a positive body image is confident in their appearance and has a healthy relationship with their body. It requires having a broad definition of beauty, valuing your own figure, and taking good care of your body.
Melissa Raouf’s decision to compete without make-up in the Miss England pageant was not just a personal choice, but a powerful statement that resonated with individuals around the world. Her courage to challenge beauty standards and promote inner beauty and self-acceptance serves as an inspiration to many.
In a world where social media and popular culture often perpetuate unrealistic ideals of beauty, it is imperative to critically examine how these platforms influence our perception of ourselves. While social media can have harmful effects on body image, it can also be a tool for positive change if used responsibly.
Ultimately, the journey to a positive body image begins with self-acceptance and self-love. Accepting our flaws and imperfections, as advocated by Melisa Raouf, is a crucial step to redefining beauty on our own terms. In this way, we can promote a more inclusive and compassionate understanding of what it means to be beautiful in today’s world.