Social Media. It's a minefield of bitesize information, imagery and who knows whether they're "real or not" videos! Everything is a big fat question mark when it comes to the world of socials. But speaking from a perspective of Instagram and TikTok as a Pro Makeup Artist, I really want to touch on the use of filters.
Filters are great fun, they can be funny, they can pass the time with little ones, and they can improve your face on days where you might be a little worse for wear or not "up to scratch" as far as social media is concerned.
But they can also be hugely toxic and dangerous - and not only to you as the user, but the audience in which you reach.
Let's start with the you as the user...
We all have moments of wishing our skin was flawless in the literal sense. Zero pores, zero fine lines and wrinkles, zero texture. Of course we do. But it's not reality. And the sooner we realise this and get to grips with the fact our skin moves, makeup creases no matter what some product marketing might tell you, we have pores, we have fine lines and wrinkles because we live life and we age, and literally nothing you do will change that. So this leads me on to the use of filters on our socials. I'm all for a filter here and there, of course... I use them too on occasion. But what you need to ensure, is that you're also confident being seen without them. Let me tell you why. If you rely on the use of these filters every time you appear on your social media, you'll be surprised how you might start to feel about your reality. You'll pick yourself apart, and you'll start to feel apprehensive about people seeing you in "real life". It's not healthy for your headspace and self worth. And if you recognise yourself doing any of these things, it might be worth having a break from the Socials.
Now what about your followers?
As a follower to influencers and industry professionals, it's easy to get lost in the belief that what you see is real. You often wouldn't even consider the amount of work that goes into these posts and videos, right?! They're not created in a moment of spontenaity, that's for sure. They're planned, lit perfectly, edited, and use just enough filter to give an illusion that it's real. Seeing these types of posts constantly down your feed will sure enough leave you feeling envious of their aparent "natural beauty". Colours pop, hair shines, skin looks silky smooth... more than naturally possible. Appreciate the art, but don't get sucked in. Respect the content, but keep your feet grounded in the knowledge that these people are only human. They'll have days where their hair isn't playing ball, or their skin has broken out. Keep your perspective clear as crystal to protect your self worth.
Comentários