Blog Post: William & Mary Freeman Intern Fellow Myra Simbulan on the Asian Beauty Standard and Colorism
The Asian beauty standard refers to a set of cultural norms and preferences for physical features deemed desirable and attractive in many Asian societies. It often includes valuing characteristics such as light skin, V-shaped faces, big and bright eyes, slender figures, and—what we all would love to have—a youthful appearance. However, it is essential to acknowledge that beauty is subjective and diverse. Each individual possesses their unique charm and attractiveness, regardless of whether they fit within these beauty standards. Embracing our diversity and understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all definition of beauty is crucial.
It’s also important to recognize that beauty standards can vary significantly within Asian countries and may evolve due to cultural influences, globalization, and media representation. As I mentioned in my blog post on Thai culture, a considerable portion of both the student and teacher population at Mae La Noi Daroonsik holds a deep admiration for Americans, particularly drawn to their light and fair complexion. Despite Thailand's history of remaining uncolonized by European or other external powers, it becomes evident how Western culture influences the East in various ways.
What is colorism? Colorism is a form of discrimination or prejudice based on skin color, typically within the same racial or ethnic group. It involves valuing or devaluing individuals or groups based on the shade of their skin, with lighter skin tones often being favored over darker ones. Colorism is prevalent in many societies worldwide, including Thailand. Lighter skin has been associated with higher social status, beauty, and attractiveness, while darker skin has often been linked to working outdoors and being of lower socioeconomic status.
This preference for lighter skin is reflected in various aspects of Thai society, from media and advertisements, to beauty standards, and even in the workplace. The popularity of skin-whitening products in Thailand illustrates the demand to achieve fairer complexions, often perpetuating the harmful effects of colorism. Harmful effects include feelings of inadequacy and lower self-esteem, as well as perpetuating social inequalities and reinforcing harmful stereotypes about beauty and worth based on skin color. As a result, some Thai people may feel pressure to conform to these beauty standards, and the demand for skin-whitening products has led to a lucrative market in the country.
In my role as an educator in Thailand, I have had the opportunity to observe firsthand how beauty standards and colorism impact the behavior and self-perception of students in the classroom. It is disheartening to witness some of the students zoning out during class, engaging in activities such as brushing their hair, applying makeup, and even using a hair iron, all in an attempt to conform to the ideals of the Asian beauty standard.
One peculiar observation I made was how some students put on baby powder during a class. While baby powder serves practical purposes like reducing sweat and keeping one smelling fresh, I noticed that for some students, it goes beyond these utilitarian functions. They view it as a means to temporarily lighten their complexion, further highlighting the pervasive influence of colorism in Thai society. Rather than arriving to class prepared with basic learning tools like a pencil, pen, and eraser, some students carry a compact mirror and a hair comb in their hands. This behavior reflects a focus on appearance and a preoccupation with meeting beauty standards, which may be fueled by the societal pressures tied to colorism.
A student from Bankongloi's English Day Camp received a dare to apply baby powder to someone's face... The student chose to apply baby powder to me.
Students doing their hair during class time.
Rows of many face care products.