Skin Shaming: online hate also affects the skin. The phenomenon

meno famous of body shaming, on social networks one begins to analyze one new “form of hate”: the “Skin Shaming”, specifically aimed at judging i skin problems. che who is a victim tends to feel inadequate, insecure, in a state of anxiety. According to the investigation of “Where Body Love 2023” well 6 out of 10 respondents feel involved in this phenomenon and only 35% consider themselves “fairly satisfied” with their skin condition.

Skin Shaming: judgment also passes through the skin

If in recent years there has often been talk of Body Shaming, i.e. all those actions carried out to offend a person by judging him for the external appearance of the body, today the target is also targeted on the skin: the expression “Skin Shaming” in fact refers to bullying – often via social media – related to skin problems.

In the recent survey of “Dove Body Love 2023”, conducted with the WOA method (Web Opinion Analysis), more than 1,200 web users (men and women aged between 20 and 50) were analysed, revealing that over 6 out of 10 people (therefore 62%) have been targeted on social networks or in everyday life for their skin problems or imperfections.

Above all, they are exposed to criticism on the web acne, imperfections and dyschromias, followed by scars And skin spots. This constant negative judgment causes a sense of inadequacy, anxiety and stress. Thus involving the most emotional and personal sphere of each one.

Among the most affected women and adolescents

As revealed by the “Dove Body Love 2023” survey, the categories most affected by “Skin Shaming” are the aged between 18 and 25 and women (over 64%) who feel more judged for their image.

Stop hiding! Also on social networks, more and more celebrities show their skin without filters: with pimples and imperfections (Credits: Instagram)

Fundamental in this case is the role of skincare: in fact, over 67% of those interviewed say that taking care of one’s appearance is a pleasure towards oneself, while 56% say they do it to be accepted by others.

Also noteworthy is the data relating to the sources that the interviewees follow for find useful information for body and skin care: The 64% Indeed follows advice from the web and from influencers.

The remedy? Self-care, positivity

There self-care therefore becomes an antidote to combat “Skin Shaming”triggering a process of positivity and love. For 59% of those interviewed, it is essential to stay focused and tuned in to one’s needs, rejecting external negative stimuli.

There Dr Stephanie Andreoli, psychotherapist and president of the Alice ETS Associationstated that: «Those who take care of their appearance do it mainly for themselves and to feel good. Treating yourself to care for your body and skin is already a gesture in itself that makes you feel bettereven before the result”.

A growing countertrend

It is interesting to note that, «unlike the results gathered from other research conducted post-pandemic and from the advent of social networks, a counter-trend is starting to be noticed. In fact, 58% of the interviewees manage to relate well to their external image: so much so that he has declared that the relationship is “very” or “quite” positive» continues the expert.

… and active listening to yourself

To counter the negative comments, 50% of the interviewees stressed how important it is for their well-being ability to carve out a moment of silence all to yourself.

«The results of the research seem to say it clearly: allow yourself a moment of silence and deep listening – not neglecting your own needs – and practicing body and skin care, is the real secret for not falling into negative comparisons». The result? Feel good about yourself: accepting all diversity and learning to love the characteristics that differentiate us from others.

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