This Is What #Unfiltered Skin Looks Like

In the past few years, social media filters have created a wildly distorted definition of perfect skin... Pore less, crease-less, texture-less. According to reports, an increasing number of women are battling self-esteem issues, largely because they compare themselves and their seemingly imperfect' skin to the highly Airbrushed faces they see online. Cosmo brings together eight women who are unafraid to show their natural skin, inspiring many others to partake in the #SkinPositivity movement.

-  Meghna Sharma

Aisha Ahmed

Actor

“My relationship with my skin has gone through many ups and downs. I remember feeling insecure about it during my teenage years. But, of late, I have been more accepting of it. At the moment, I don't think my skin looks as great as it could, because it seems dehydrated, and that makes me conscious. It's a constant battle, I'd say. But I also believe that we should take each day as it comes, and remind ourselves that we are beautiful just as we are.

Looking at 'flawless' faces on social media, I did get pulled into the vortex of using beauty filters. I'd turn to the ones that would conceal my under-eye area as much as possible as I am quite conscious about it. And being in the profession that I am in, I have actively thought about getting fillers to achieve a certain standard of beauty. But I feel blessed that I have some wonderful friends who have prevented me from giving into my insecurities.

Today, my idea of perfection is rooted in health. I truly believe that if one has a healthy body and skin, the shape, size, and colour don't matter. It is very important to normalise the fact that 'real' skin has texture. And the best tool to spread the word is social media. We need to talk about this a lot more, post more bare-faced selfies, and gradually, we'll get there. Isn't it ironic, though...social media is responsible for creating these insecurities, and yet, that's the platform we are turning to bring about change?”

TPU biodegradable metallic faux leather crop jacket, Bloni Atelier; bikini bottoms Shivan & Narresh

Guneet Monga

Film Director