Beauty trends on TikTok are constantly evolving, and the latest buzz is around something called “visual weight.” This trend uses filters to apply different makeup styles to different sides of your face, aiming to emphasize unique features effectively. Let’s dive into the roots of this trend and its relevance across different beauty standards.
What is visual weight?
Visual weight is a concept that focuses on identifying and enhancing your natural facial features through makeup. It aims to celebrate individuality rather than conforming to traditional beauty standards. The theory places faces on a spectrum between “high” and “low” visual weights, suggesting different makeup approaches based on these distinctions.
Where did the term ‘visual weight’ come from?
The term “visual weight” gained popularity through content creators like “Dear Peachie,” who highlighted the idea in YouTube videos discussing beauty tips influenced by East Asian practices. This concept challenges conventional Western makeup approaches, emphasizing the importance of adapting makeup styles to suit individual facial characteristics.
This trend illustrates that there’s no one-size-fits-all beauty standard and encourages people to explore and appreciate their unique features regardless of cultural norms.
Is visual weight just another way to critique ourselves?
While beauty trends can sometimes perpetuate harmful societal norms, the concept of visual weight aims to empower individuals to experiment with makeup in ways that enhance their natural beauty rather than conforming to unrealistic standards. It’s a tool for self-expression and creativity, accessible to everyone regardless of budget or expertise.
Embracing your visual weight should be a journey of self-discovery and self-love, rather than a means of comparison or judgment. Every individual’s beauty is valid and valuable, irrespective of prescribed beauty ideals.
What is low visual weight?
Low visual weight suggests choosing makeup styles that create a balanced and harmonious look, avoiding overpowering any specific facial features. This approach focuses on achieving overall facial harmony through subtle and natural makeup applications.
What is high visual weight?
High visual weight is characterized by bold makeup choices that accentuate larger or prominent facial features. This style aims to draw attention to specific features rather than achieving overall facial balance, allowing individuals to embrace and highlight their unique attributes.
How do I figure out my face’s visual weight?
Understanding your face’s visual weight involves experimentation and learning about makeup techniques that complement your features. Consider factors like the size of your features, color contrasts, and your bone structure to determine the most suitable makeup styles for enhancing your natural beauty.
Topics
Beauty
TikTok
Elizabeth is a digital culture reporter covering the internet’s influence on self-expression, fashion, and fandom. Her work explores how technology shapes our identities, communities, and emotions. Before joining Mashable, Elizabeth spent six years in tech. Her reporting can be found in Rolling Stone, The Guardian, TIME, and Teen Vogue. Follow her on Instagram here.
