Eternal Beauty: Exploring the Aesthetic Concepts That Stand the Test of Time

I have written before that it can be dangerous in aesthetics to chase “trends,” and why this is the case. In the past I have emphasised beauty treatments, make-up, fashion - these all follow trends that are influenced by place, time, and culture. Medical treatments, however, should never be based solely on trends.

However, it is worth noting that there are certain timeless aesthetics that continue to inspire and influence us. These enduring concepts have remained popular throughout history and continue to shape the way we think about beauty today. They are good guiding principles when you start treatment planning for any patient.

In this article, we will explore some of the aesthetic concepts that stand the test of time.

Skin Health

Timeless beauty trends can be understood from an evolutionary perspective as a way to indicate good health and reproductive fitness, which are traits that have been naturally selected over time. For example, one classic beauty trend that has persisted for centuries is the desire for clear, radiant skin. In ancient times, beauty rituals involved using natural ingredients like honey and milk to achieve a glowing complexion.

In modern times, people still seek out treatments like facials and chemical peels to get that glow. Luminous skin can be seen as a sign of good health, as it suggests a healthy diet, good hydration, and an absence of disease. Now obviously we know things are a little more complex than that, but your skin health is influenced in some part by your overall health.

Balance

The ideal facial shape is another beauty trend that has been a focus for many cultures throughout history. In ancient China, a heart-shaped face with a small chin and wide forehead was considered ideal, while in ancient Greece, a strong, chiseled jawline was prized. While there may have been differences in different times and places, one thing that they have all had in common is that in general the ideal face shape is about proportion and symmetry, with a focus on balanced features. Symmetry and balance have always been valued in beauty, and this trend continues in aesthetic medicine. Procedures that can help create a more balanced and harmonious appearance, such as facial contouring and lip enhancement, have remained popular over time.

Natural-looking Results

While trends may come and go, the desire for natural-looking results remains universal. The majority of people want to enhance their features and reduce the signs of ageing, but they don't want to look like they've had work done. To that end, people want to prioritise subtle enhancements that work with an individual's unique facial structure, rather than trying to change it completely. This approach helps individuals achieve a more refreshed and youthful appearance without losing their natural beauty and individuality.

Final Thoughts

Adhering to the timeless beauty trends of good skin health, balance and symmetry, and keeping things natural can allow us to preserve individual uniqueness because these trends focus on enhancing one's natural features, rather than conforming to a specific standard of beauty. Instead of trying to look like everyone else, we embrace and enhance our unique features.