The social media trend going around started by a British cosmetics company Escentuals last October to promote breast cancer awareness. Women would sign up and gather sponsors to go without make-up for a certain period of time, take a picture of themselves and post them on social media.
The trend has hit North America; I've seen a lot of my friends' photos without make up. You're all gorgeous by the way I have nothing against those pictures. It makes a little more sense to me now. But I still have trouble seeing what the point is, and that's why I haven't done mine yet.
On one hand, it is a small gesture with a bigger message: The old look good, feel good mentality. Maybe the thinking is if we look our worst, and feel our worst we might have a small idea of what women with breast cancer go through. Another message here: Beauty is only skin deep. There are women who might see these pictures of their friends and family and realize you're beautiful make-up or not. Your looks don't define who you are.
Even though it's a small gesture with potentially positive messages, I wonder if it trivialises what women with cancer go through. The fear, and uncertainty after finding out, the brutal treatment protocols, which for some means losing a breast. Like it or not for women breasts are a big symbol of what it means to be a woman. The idea that all we have to do is post a picture of ourselves without makeup and somehow that demonstrates empathy with the cause is a little superficial.
There is definitely a selflessness in wanting to bring attention to a cause, and fundraise for a cure. But, I wonder if we haven't gone from the selfless to the selfish with this one. I haven't seen one picture of my friends that hasn't been greeted with positive comments, which, is a good thing.
I understand you have to bring attention to a cause no matter what methods. I just wonder if we haven't gone too far with this one.
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