In today's world, the pursuit of beauty has become an all-encompassing phenomenon. It seems as though we are constantly bombarded with images and messages that emphasize the importance of looking beautiful. This obsession with beauty has given rise to multimillion-dollar industries, including cosmetics, fashion, and cosmetic/reconstructive surgery (aka plastic surgery). But why are we so enthralled by beauty, and why does being called beautiful or handsome make us feel so good? The majority of us, if we are being truthful, would admit that we do get a little tingle inside or instantly smile when we hear those words
Lets delve into these questions and explore the complex relationship between society and beauty.
The Multimillion-Dollar Beauty Industries
1. The Cosmetic Industry
The cosmetic industry is one of the largest and most profitable sectors in the world. It encompasses a wide range of products, from makeup and skincare to haircare and fragrances. According to Statista (a German based data collection platform), the global cosmetic market was valued at over $500 billion in 2020, and this number continues to grow steadily.
The allure of cosmetics lies in their transformative power. Makeup allows individuals to enhance their features, hide imperfections, and express their creativity. It has become a form of self-expression, enabling people to craft their desired image and boost their self-confidence.

2. The Fashion Industry
Fashion is another behemoth in the beauty landscape. It revolves around clothing, accessories, and style trends that change seasonally. The global fashion industry was estimated to be worth around $1.5 trillion in 2020, making it a colossal economic force.
Fashion is not merely about covering the body but also about projecting an image. What we wear often reflects our personality, aspirations, and the image we want to convey to the world. It is an industry that thrives on the ever-evolving concept of beauty, offering a constant stream of new styles and trends.

3. The Plastic Surgery Industry
The plastic surgery industry is perhaps the most direct manifestation of our beauty obsession. It involves surgical and non-surgical procedures aimed at altering one's appearance. The industry's global market size was estimated to be over $45 billion in 2020, and it continues to expand.
Plastic surgery offers the promise of physical transformation, allowing individuals to change their facial features, body shape, and even reverse the effects of aging. While some turn to plastic surgery for medical reasons, many do it for cosmetic enhancement, driven by the desire to conform to societal beauty standards.
Why Do We Feel Good When Called Beautiful?
One of the most intriguing aspects of our beauty obsession is the emotional response we experience when someone tells us that we are beautiful. This feeling of joy and validation is deeply ingrained in our psychological and social makeup.
1. Social Validation: Being called beautiful often carries a sense of social validation. It implies that we meet or exceed the standards of attractiveness set by our culture. In a world that places a high value on beauty, this validation can boost our self-esteem and sense of belonging.
2. Positive Self-Image: Compliments about our appearance can contribute to a positive self-image. Feeling beautiful can lead to increased self-confidence, which can have a positive ripple effect on various aspects of our lives.

3. Evolutionary Psychology: From an evolutionary perspective, our desire to be considered beautiful may be rooted in the need to attract mates. Throughout human history, attractiveness has been linked to reproductive success, making beauty a desirable trait.
The world's obsession with beauty has given rise to multimillion-dollar industries that shape our daily lives. Cosmetics, fashion, and plastic surgery have become integral parts of our pursuit of beauty and self-expression. While these industries offer transformative potential, they also reflect the complex interplay between societal standards and individual desires.
Feeling good when called beautiful is a testament to the power of beauty in our lives. It is a reminder of the significance of social validation and the enduring human desire to be seen as attractive. As we navigate this beauty-obsessed world, it's essential to remember that beauty comes in many forms, and true self-worth goes beyond appearances......Doesn't it?