Refactoring the Beauty Standard

In this week's episode of the Twinning Strategy Podcast, Eddie Duyos, a seasoned professional from the beauty industry, shared insights that challenge and redefine our understanding of beauty. With an impressive 30-year career under his belt, he highlights the remarkable transformation in beauty standards from a Eurocentric focus to a more inclusive celebration of diverse features and identities. The discussion kicks off with anticipation for the upcoming Met Gala, setting the stage for a conversation about the evolving landscape of beauty and celebrity culture.

Eddie reflects nostalgically on his early days in the industry, noting the restrictive beauty standards predominantly favoring symmetry and an all-too-often idealized aesthetic. He emphasizes that these notions are not just outdated, but harmful, as they exclude myriad expressions of beauty found across different cultures and histories. Fast forward to today, and Eddie celebrates the current era where individuality is championed. Natural beauty shows strength; unique features are no longer considered flaws but celebrated attributes that contribute to a person’s identity.

The conversation naturally transitions to the role of technology and social media in shaping beauty trends. Eddie discusses how platforms like TikTok have democratized the beauty industry, allowing diverse voices to rise and share their unique perspectives on beauty. This shift is profound, moving away from a centralized industry narrative to a more decentralized, community-led conversation. Eddie passionately advocates for inclusivity, recognizing that beauty is a political statement in itself. It's about representing and celebrating every individual.

Central to Eddie's mission is fostering a culture where uncomfortable conversations are encouraged, especially concerning diversity and representation. He reflects on his role in product development at Makeup Forever, advocating for voices that may have been marginalized in the industry. He asserts that innovation cannot thrive without these necessary, sometimes uncomfortable dialogues, which are foundational to progressing toward a more inclusive beauty industry.

As the discussion winds down, Eddie leaves us with a powerful message: the beauty industry must continue to push boundaries and embrace the discomfort that often accompanies change. The goal, he emphasizes, is a richer, more inclusive definition of beauty, one that resonates with today's diverse audience. This passionate exchange offers a compelling reminder of the responsibility of creators and marketers in the beauty space to uplift every voice and innovate in a way that honors the complexity of human identity.

Eddie’s final takeaway is clear — it’s essential to have those uncomfortable conversations if we want to cultivate meaningful change in beauty and beyond.

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