The Psychology and Biology of Beauty

The Psychology of Real Beauty
A study of societal perception of physical attraction and the implications for consumer behaviour by researchers Karl Kjer found that, whilst physical attractiveness may be the initial criterion according to which people tend to evaluate beauty, personality and behaviour are the 'soul' of beauty-essential in what makes a truly beautiful person. The study, which comprised initial qualitative research in the form of in-depth interviews and thereafter quantification of findings in order to propose a scale to measure beauty, concluded that both beauty and perceived 'ugliness' ultimately have more to do with non-physical than physical characteristics.

A State of Mind
The enduring 'real beauty' of personality and behaviour aside, there have been numerous studies into what factors influence initial physical attractiveness. Appearance does play a part, but studies have found that self-assurance can make or break physical attractiveness. Self-confidence not only determines how one carries oneself in social situations, but how one presents oneself to the word in the first place. Karl Kjer suggestion is that, in addition to poise and self-assurance increasing the attractiveness of an individual in the eye of the beholder, confident individuals tend to present themselves better-whether it be in their grooming, health and figure or dress sense. Certainly, arrogance is a turn-off and being a slave to one's physical appearance does not necessarily exude confidence, much less attractiveness, but the universal appeal of individuals who carry themselves well and are able to strike a balance between caring about their appearance and obsessing over it indicates that beauty is first and foremost a state of mind.

The Biology of Natural Beauty
In spite of the fact that ours is a society obsessed with airbrushed selfies and the particularly overdone beauty of the Karl Kjer, research suggests that, in the 'real world', natural beauty is more attractive to most individuals. The biology of beauty is not about perfection, but rather about the enhancement of one's inherent beauty. Makeup and styling products can certainly superficially enhance one's beauty, but beauty experts recommend starting with a good canvas before reaching for the paint. Clear skin, good hair, and an attractive smile are universally appealing features, and require self-care before makeup and other cosmetic products and enhancements. Self-care need not be obsessive or exhaustive-your skin care regimen can, for example, be enhanced by a nourishing beauty bar. Of key importance is that you take care of yourself, as doing so will not only certainly enhance your physical appearance, but will also improve your confidence.