Tiktok's Algorithm Just Called You Ugly & Hairdressers Are Going Extinct - Ugly Beauty News

Howto & Style

Introduction

Welcome to this week's edition of Ugly Beauty News, where I delve into the intriguing and sometimes troubling world of beauty news online. If you're curious about the articles and videos I'll discuss, feel free to check the description box below for links. Before we jump into today's topics, I'd like to express my gratitude to our sponsor, Haru Haru Wonder.

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Now, let's dive into the other fascinating, and in some cases alarming, stories in beauty news this week.

TikTok's Beauty Algorithm Burdens the 'Ugly'

Recently, a theory has been circulating that TikTok's algorithm may favor users who have conventionally attractive features. The rumor suggests that beauty algorithms assess content by evaluating the physical attractiveness of users, which entails measuring symmetry and skin texture against societal beauty standards. A TikTok user, BiteUm, proposed that this algorithm could stem from a research study where AI assessed facial attractiveness, with a notable bias towards Asian beauty standards while excluding other ethnicities.

This raises ethical questions about how beauty algorithms could privilege certain physical attributes while marginalizing others. The greater issue revolves around the negative mental health impacts of chasing these idealized beauty standards fueled by filters and digitally enhanced images circulating on social networks like TikTok and Instagram.

In 2022, industry insights pinpointed the ramifications of what was termed "beauty overstimulation" on mental well-being. With us constantly being exposed to idealized beauty through social media, this inevitably leads to harmful comparisons and unrealistic expectations for many users.

Brands Address Amazon Counterfeit Crisis

Shifting gears, there’s some good news in the fight against counterfeit beauty products online, especially on Amazon. Brands such as Touchland, the hand sanitizer company that gained notoriety during the pandemic, are taking steps to curb the prevalence of counterfeit goods. After observing a wave of knock-offs, Touchland's CEO noted that tracking these imitators can feel like a game of whack-a-mole.

Amazon has enhanced its intellectual property protection efforts, reportedly reducing copyright infringement by over 30% this year. However, brands like Lashify, a DIY lash extension company, have resorted to costly lawsuits against counterfeiters to protect their reputation and products.

Decline in Skin Cancer Rates Among Young Adults

In brighter news for skincare, there is evidence of a decline in skin cancer among younger adults in Sweden, marking it as the first European country to see such a turn of events. The decline can be attributed to increased awareness of sun protection, like the Sun Safe campaign designed for children, and a reduction in sunbed usage bolstered by legislation. Interestingly, the increase in screen time among kids has also played a part, limiting their sun exposure.

However, this decline does not extend to individuals over 50, where skin cancer rates continue to rise.

Crisis in Hairdressing Profession in the UK

The UK hair industry is facing a daunting crisis: fewer young people are choosing hairdressing as a career. Enrollment for hairdressing apprenticeships has plummeted by 70% over the past decade, leading to a shortage of stylists amid a surge of salon closures. It appears that younger generations perceive hairdressing as a low-paying and unappealing job, contributing to the profession's decline.

Despite the creativity and community engagement available within the hairdressing field, it remains a challenge to attract new talent. In fact, the number of students completing their training has dropped remarkably in recent years, leaving salons struggling to fill positions as they attempt to recover from pandemic-related financial hardships.

In conclusion, the current beauty landscape is complex and filled with challenges. While we navigate the intricacies of social media algorithms and the ongoing struggles of the beauty industry, it's essential to remain vigilant about the patterns and behaviors impacting mental health and career vitality.

Keywords

  • TikTok
  • Beauty Algorithm
  • Counterfeits
  • Skin Cancer Decline
  • Hairdressing Crisis
  • Young Adults
  • Mental Health

FAQ

  1. Does TikTok's algorithm favor attractive users? There are theories suggesting that TikTok's algorithm favors content featuring users with conventionally attractive features.

  2. What are the risks associated with beauty algorithms? The use of beauty algorithms can lead to the promotion of unrealistic beauty standards, which may negatively impact mental health and self-esteem.

  3. How are brands addressing counterfeit products on Amazon? Brands are taking a proactive stance against counterfeits through lawsuits and partnerships with Amazon to enhance intellectual property protections.

  4. Is skin cancer declining among younger people? Yes, there is evidence showing that skin cancer rates are decreasing in younger adults in Sweden, attributed to better public awareness and reduced sunbed usage.

  5. Why is there a decline in the hairdressing profession in the UK? A significant drop in apprentice enrollments and the perception of hairdressing as a low-paying job are contributing to the crisis in the industry.