When we think of beauty pageants, we often think of contestants competing to be the best looking, decked out in glamorous makeup and glittering gowns. While this is the reality of many beauty pageants, there are also those who dare to deviate from traditional norms. In 2023, a unique beauty pageant made history by challenging contestants to embrace their natural beauty and compete without makeup. The winner was 26-year-old dental nurse Natasha Beresford, who was crowned Miss London 2023. This unconventional beauty pageant marked a significant departure from the usual standards, promoting self-confidence and a positive body image for women.
In a world where beauty pageants are often synonymous with elaborate make-up, high fashion, and gorgeous evening gowns, Miss London 2023 dared to be different. For the first time in its nearly century-long history, the pageant took the bold step of eliminating the use of makeup among contestants. Natasha Beresford, a dental nurse by profession, rose to the occasion and beat 18 other competitors to claim the coveted title.
The decision to hold a makeup-free contest was deliberate. Organizers sought to challenge conventional beauty standards and inspire women to embrace their natural selves, both inside and outside the pageant. Their goal was to celebrate the innate beauty that resides in every woman and promote positive body image.
Participants had to upload unedited pictures of themselves in the past.
It was difficult under certain circumstances, but the lack of cosmetics made it even more difficult.
Natasha will now take part in the Miss England final this year. She began this journey in 2021, earning the unofficial nickname of a real-life tooth fairy due to her commitment to providing dental care to children.
Natasha currently lives in London but was born and raised in Sheffield. She is employed at a private dental practice in Chiswick. She said she also has other goals for the future, including: “I would like to go on to further study in dental radiography and oral health promotion. I also intend to work with Dentaid at one of their field dental clinics in the UK where they offer dental care and oral health referrals for those who are homeless, victims of abuse, poor families, refugees, cancer patients, and drug addicts in recovery.
The Miss London 2023 beauty pageant was far from ordinary. It defied convention and offered a powerful message of self-acceptance and natural beauty. Natasha Beresford’s victory as Miss London is a testament to her inner radiance, confidence, and determination to make a difference. This makeup-free beauty pageant set a new standard for celebrating women’s authenticity and challenging the notion that makeup defines beauty.
As Natasha embarks on her journey as Miss London 2023, she carries with her a powerful message of empowerment and confidence. Her aspirations in dentistry and her work with Dentaid exemplify her determination to create positive change in the world. Natasha’s story is a reminder that beauty comes in many forms and it is our confidence and authenticity that truly shines through.
In a world that often imposes unrealistic beauty standards, Miss London 2023 is a beacon of hope, encouraging women to embrace their natural beauty and celebrate their unique qualities. Natasha Beresford’s journey is a source of inspiration for all who dare to defy the norms and believe in their inherent beauty. It’s a story that reminds us that true beauty lies within, waiting to be embraced and celebrated.