Chasing Beauty: When Natural Charm Meets Modern Aesthetics

Beauty has always been an important part of human nature. People not only want to look beautiful themselves but also enjoy seeing and appreciating beauty. Perhaps this is why the concept of beauty and aesthetics has existed since the beginning of human civilization.

As lifestyles changed over time, standards of beauty and the ways of achieving it also evolved. Today, beauty seems to have been divided into two forms: one is natural beauty, which comes from simplicity, a healthy lifestyle and a clean environment; the other is artificial or modern beauty, achieved with the help of beauty parlours, cosmetics, aesthetic clinics and modern medical procedures.

There was a time when simplicity was a prominent part of people's lives, yet that very simplicity carried a unique charm and natural beauty. People consumed simple and healthy food, the environment was relatively cleaner, and life was not as fast-paced and hectic as it is today.

Most importantly, people had time for one another. They would sit together, share their happiness and sorrows, care for each other, and live their lives with comparatively greater peace and contentment.

Perhaps that peace and contentment appeared on their faces in the form of natural freshness and liveliness. Skin problems were not as common as they are today, and people felt less need for expensive products or modern beauty treatments to look attractive.

Women in the past also took care of their beauty, but their methods were simple, natural and mostly home-based. They used surma (kohl) for their eyes and dandasa to clean their teeth, which also gave their lips a natural reddish tint.

Henna was used to keep hair beautiful and healthy, while Multani mitti (Fuller's earth) and various homemade remedies were used to cleanse and brighten the face.

There was simplicity in these methods as well as a close connection with nature. Perhaps that is why the beauty of that era had a distinct freshness and charm. The beauty found in that simplicity may not be fully replaced by even the most expensive modern treatment.

With time, standards of beauty also began to change. The trend of makeup grew, and beauty parlours started appearing in almost every street and neighbourhood. Going to a beauty parlour was no longer limited to weddings or special occasions; many women and girls began turning to beauty treatments in their daily lives to enhance their appearance.

Haircuts, hair colouring, makeup and other beauty treatments gradually became part of everyday life.

Whether it was an engagement, wedding, birthday or any other event, visiting a beauty parlour became a common part of preparation.

At the same time, various products and services related to Haircuts, hair colouring,, haircare and nail care became increasingly common. The growing availability of beauty products made it easier for people to make different changes to their appearance.

Gradually, changes became possible in everything from facial features and hairstyles to even eye colour. Changing eye colour through contact lenses also became a common trend.

Similarly, fair skin began to be considered a standard of beauty. The trend of using different creams and products to alter skin tone increased, while natural darker or wheatish complexions, which have their own unique charm and beauty, were sometimes unfairly viewed as inferior.

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Young men and women, in particular, sometimes overlook the fact that not every beauty product is suitable for every type of skin. Substandard or unsuitable products can damage the skin. Therefore, before using any cream or cosmetic product, it is important to understand its ingredients, quality and possible effects.

According to plastic surgeon Dr Riaz Ahmed of Lady Reading Hospital, countless creams and products are available in the market claiming to lighten the complexion and improve the skin, but not every product is necessarily safe or effective. Some products may contain ingredients that can damage the skin if used incorrectly or for prolonged periods. Beauty is certainly important, but safe beauty is even more important.

The matter is no longer limited to beauty parlours. Aesthetic clinics and modern cosmetic procedures are also becoming increasingly popular. Many people are turning to various modern medical and cosmetic procedures to improve their appearance.

Advances in science, medicine and technology have introduced methods that can help reduce the visible effects of ageing and improve certain physical features. Things that were not possible in the past have become relatively easier today with the advancement of modern medical science.

The desire to look better and more beautiful has always been part of human nature. In the past, the means of achieving this were limited, whereas today, medical science has developed this field on a more systematic and scientific basis.

Dr Riaz Ahmed says that modern aesthetic medicine and plastic surgery can help reduce some visible signs of ageing and create greater balance in facial features. However, this does not mean that the importance of natural beauty has diminished.

According to him, the real objective should be to enhance a person's natural appearance and personality rather than trying to transform them according to an unnatural or unrealistic standard. The benefits of modern aesthetic and cosmetic treatments are not limited to physical appearance.

For some people, these procedures may also improve satisfaction with their appearance and boost self-confidence. However, results can vary from person to person, so any treatment should be chosen after considering individual needs and professional medical advice.

It is also important to remember that no medical treatment is completely free of risks. Whether it involves medication or a medical procedure, every treatment has its own benefits, potential risks and limitations. Therefore, consulting a qualified doctor before undergoing any cosmetic or medical procedure is essential. This allows a person to understand the expected results, possible complications and alternative options before making an informed decision.

But this raises an important question: Has beauty now become merely about physical transformation?

The reality is that beauty is not limited to clear skin, hair colour or facial features. True beauty also includes health, a smile, personality, confidence, simplicity and, above all, a person's character.

Even today, simplicity can be seen in the lifestyles of many people who remain close to nature. A clean environment, relatively lower levels of pollution, a simple diet and mental peace can have a positive impact on a person's overall health and freshness.

In rural and mountainous areas, many families still make time for one another. In the evenings, family members sit together, talk, listen to each other's problems and try to find solutions through mutual support.

This sense of peace, affection and contentment also influences a person's personality. When someone is mentally at peace, their smile, conversation and overall personality naturally become more appealing.

We should certainly want to look good and take care of our health and personality, but not at the cost of considering our natural beauty inferior. Sometimes, the natural beauty we are trying to change is actually our true identity and one of our greatest qualities.

Beauty is not simply what appears in the mirror. True beauty can also be seen in a person's behaviour, smile, personality, confidence, character and simplicity.

Natural beauty and modern beauty treatments are not necessarily opposites. What matters is balance and informed decision-making. Modern science and medical treatments can be used to enhance one's appearance, but without ignoring natural identity, health and individuality.

Ultimately, the most beautiful person is one who carries confidence in their personality, kindness in their behaviour and peace in their life.

Note: This article reflects the personal views of the author, and the organisation does not necessarily agree with them.

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