From the stunning Indian sari to the glamorous French beret, beauty is something that transcends borders and cultures. In today’s age of globalization, cultures everywhere are merging, and with that, makeup trends have become ever-more diverse and vibrant. This article explores cultural makeup influences from around the world and how unique beauty standards are, in fact, shared universally. Join us as we take a look at how makeup trends are becoming more inclusive and interconnected than ever before.
1. Introduction to Beauty Beyond Borders
For many centuries, cultures around the world have adopted makeup in their everyday life as a form of expression and creativity. What many don’t realise is that the cultural, political and social contexts of this time can have a huge influence on the evolution of makeup.
This post will explore the rich tapestry of cultures across the globe and the history of makeup they have been influenced by. Highlights will include China’s shifting beauty trends, Indonesia’s commitment to natural beauty and America’s introduction of youth culture.
Each of these examples will showcase how beauty conventions are constantly evolving. Let’s jump in and explore the beauty beyond borders.
- China
For centuries, the makeup of choice in the Far East was focused on a more natural look. This look was known as the traditional Sung Dynasty aesthetic, and it is still prevalent in some parts of the country today.
- Indonesia
These women often focus more on holistic practices and skincare than makeup. However, makeup is still important to the everyday lives of Indonesian women. They embrace the natural elements by using products that cater to their individual skin type and tone. Soft pink looks are popular, as well as minimal eye makeup.
- America
The influence of pop culture and youth culture helped to revolutionize the makeup industry in America. Angular, daring looks have become mainstream, manifesting in glittery, bold lips, smoky eyes and sharp contours. The industry has also seen an emphasis on inclusion and representation, which has made the country a leader in beauty diversity.
2. Examining Different Cultures’ Makeup Practices
Makeup has been redefined and expanded beyond the West. With the ability to find out more about different cultures’ practices, the world of makeup is truly magical and diverse.
- Africa: African makeup typically features bright colors and dramatic looks. It often starts with bold lines that start at the eyes and continues on to the other features of the face.
- Asia: From Korean trends centered around clear skin and soft features to traditional Chinese Geisha makeup styles, cultures in Asia have distinct looks that celebrate small details in makeup.
- The Middle East: The Middle Eastern take on makeup reflects a unique blend of modern and traditional. With some makeup trends mixing bright colors and bold lines, the possibilities for these looks are seemingly endless.
- The Americas: Makeup styles in the Americas tend to be more naturalistic, such as Ecuadorian lip art or indigenous Native American traditional looks.
No matter where they are from, different cultures across the globe all have their own unique makeup practices and preferences. Whether you are looking to learn more about another culture or just appreciate unique makeup designs, is a great way to explore the world of makeup.
3. Exploring the Influence of Cultural Values on Makeup
From swirling cherry blossoms in Japan to sun-kissed beach days in Australia, beauty around the world has no boundaries. From intricate head pieces to subtle blush, people have found unique ways to express themselves through makeup. Below, we explore the cultural influences that shape beauty in different cultures, allowing us to appreciate the diversity of beauty.
- Kabuki-Inspired Makeup – Kabuki makeup in Japan is dramatic and heavy, emphasizing Costume design with bold colors and rice powder. Not just for stage performances, Kabuki makeup is used to elaborate on an individual’s look, such as a kimono or special occasion.
- Moon Lovers – Bright, pastel eye shadows are often popular in Korean makeup, making dramatic eye shadows the norm. These eye shadows are designed to bring attention to a person’s face in the most natural way possible.
- High Contrast Eyes – In African makeup, deep, dark khol is used to dramatically contrast with lighter eyeshadow or blush. This contrast helps to create a statement look that speaks to strength and unique beauty.
When it comes to cultural makeup influences, there is no right or wrong way. Despite the wide variety of beauty trends around the world, modern makeup has become a way of expressing ourselves no matter where we come from. We should appreciate the diversity of beauty, and remember that beauty truly knows no boundaries.
4. Comparing Makeup Trends Around the World
Beauty is a universal language, but the ways cultures express and apply it can be vastly different. From a technical point of view, makeup has fundamental functions: it modifies a person’s appearance, sculpts facial features, and accentuates the beauty of the individual. But looking beyond these basics, we can explore the nuances of different makeup trends around the globe that showcase the diverse, unique ways they can be applied.
United States
- Bright-colored eyeshadows are popular.
- In terms of complexion, there is an emphasis on brightening and colour correcting.
- Well-defined eyebrows are essential.
China
- Red lipsticks are widely used.
- Natural, dewy looking complexion is favoured.
- Achieving a flawless look is prized.
India
- Bold, intense, smoky eyes are a go-to.
- Brighter, more saturated eye and lip shades are popular.
- Nude and neutral tones for face makeup are usually avoided.
Middle East
- Neutral tones on the eyes emphasized with bold eyeliners.
- Decorative jewelry for enhancing eyes.
- Raised, full eyebrows.
Every culture celebrates beauty, but their definitions of it and the way they express it can be vastly different. Exploring various makeup trends from around the world can be a great way to bring attention to and appreciate diverse perspectives on beauty.
5. Recognizing the Power of Beauty Across Cultures
Makeup is a powerful form of self-expression; it has been used to signify beauty, culture, and identity in myriad ways all around the world. Here, we explore the colorful ways that cultures use makeup to showcase their unique heritage and style.
Saudi Arabia and Turkey
- From stunning Kohl-lined eyes in Saudi Arabia to intricate geometric designs in Turkey, the Gulf region has a rich history of makeup and beauty influences.
- The use of henna, sandalwood, and rosewater is widely accepted in this region to adorn oneself and to make oneself look pleasing to the gods.
Japan, Korea, and China
- Japan, Korea, and China are known to have a very distinct approach to makeup and beauty. From understated looks in Japan to bold and daring looks in Korea and China, there is something for everyone.
- From bright and bold eyeshadows to flawless foundation routines, these countries have an unparalleled eye for detail and a unique sense of beauty.
India and Southeast Asia
- India and Southeast Asia have a treasure trove of beauty secrets. From street-style chic looks to traditional goddess makeup, South Asian makeup trends are truly captivating.
- Smoky eyes, glossy lips, and bold colors are just some of the looks to be seen on the faces of some in this region.
Africa
- In Africa, beauty has been celebrated for centuries through both traditional and contemporary styles.
- Kajal, body-painting, and crochet-and-bead makeup looks are all deeply embedded in African beauty culture.
From dynamic eye makeup looks in the Middle East to muted but vibrant makeup artistry in the Far East, beauty is a dazzling decoration and a form of communication that transcends boundaries as it unites people around the world.
6. Reflections on Culturally Influenced Beauty
From Middle Eastern to European and from Asian to Latinx, different regions have passed down beauty rituals and makeup techniques throughout the centuries. Cultural makeup influences, while varied in their origins, are often united by their purpose: to highlight certain features and present them in the most flattering light while remaining true to the individual wearing them.
Though there is no single way to apply makeup, there are trends inseparable from cultural influences. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- English Rose: This makeup look is based on a classic pin-up aesthetic and is all about natural-looking bouncy curls, bright red lips, liquid liner lined eyes and a light dusting of blush.
- Korean Style: Korean-influenced makeup puts a greater emphasis on skincare, which is why many Korean celebrities have clear complexions. Their signature looks range from bare-faced minimalism to single-colored lids with double-lines of eyeliner and lots of mascara.
- Arabian Nights: Light, shimmery eyeshadows are staples of this look. Bold liquid eyeliners, false eyelashes, and dramatic lips are also usually combined with a light dusting of highlighter and bronzer to give the face some subtle contour.
- Latinx Look: When it comes to Latinx makeup, the colors that are used are an essential part of the overall look. Bright reflective blues, shimmery golds, and different shades of pink are all popular selections.
Cultural makeup influences are often reflections of each particular region’s culture, which is why it can be so fascinating to explore them. By understanding the techniques and trends popular in different regions, we can appreciate the beauty beyond borders.
7. Suggestions for Incorporating Cultural Makeup Influences
1. Try incorporating makeup trends from around the world: From bold, vibrant eyeshadows inspired by India to smoky looks from Korea, borrow trends from the global beauty community to create your own style.
2. Look for reputable outlets: Makeup tutorials, blogs, and Youtube channels to find inspiration from cultures different to your own.
3. Take cultural influences into consideration when choosing colors and products: Consider the skin tones of various cultures when selecting makeup that you like and can wear comfortably.
4. Find ways to make makeup reflect both your cultural and personal expression: Makeup can help you express who you are. Incorporate elements of your own culture or ancestry into your look.
5. Explore the history of makeup from around the world: Research the history and evolution of makeup in other cultures. It can offer great insight into traditional beauty practices.
6. Embrace the cultural elements that bring joy to you: Don’t be afraid to express yourself and create unique looks based on cultural influences that you find joy in.
7. Experiment safely: Remember to always practice safe hygiene and makeup application, and to be aware of any allergies you may have. From vibrant hues that bring joy to subtle touches that speak to elegance, exploring the influence of cultural makeup helps to broaden our view of beauty and embolden our individual expression. With Beauty Beyond Borders, we can create an international dialogue to share our experiences and deepen our appreciation for the infinite possibilities of beauty.
