It's no secret that body image issues are a real problem in our society. But what's often overlooked is the fact that these issues disproportionately affect black and other minority populations. Studies have shown that black women, in particular, are more likely to suffer from poor body image and eating disorders. This is likely due to a combination of factors, including racism, colorism, and media portrayal of black women as either hypersexualized or invisible. It's clear that we need to do more to support black women who are struggling with their body image. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the unique challenges faced by black women when it comes to body image, what research suggests we can do to enhance assessment, and offer some tips on how to deal with these issues. We hope you'll find this information helpful and empowering!

The history of black and brown people in America and how it has led to body image issues

The history of black and brown people in America is a complex one, to say the least, weaving through centuries of oppression, racism, and marginalization before finally achieving progress in recent times. Despite the advances achieved, body image issues among members of these communities remain persistent due to their painful past. Factors such as colorism, Eurocentric beauty standards, and experiences with racism all contribute to an unhealthy sense of identity for many individuals. Acknowledging this situation is an important first step towards understanding how to support those suffering from poor body image because of their journey through life as persons of color. The story of black and brown people in America is not finished yet; let's come together to ensure that our future generations understand their worth beyond what they look like or who they love.

The standard of beauty that is pushed by the media and its impact on BIPOC

The standard of beauty pushed by the media has had a massive impact on body image issues among BIPOC communities. Many people in these communities may be afraid to speak up about body positivity and body confidence topics that are often challenging to approach. The consequences can include insecurity, stress eating, and body dysmorphia, all of which can lead to medical complications and distress. It is more important than ever for us to remind ourselves that we are all differently beautiful and our body confidence should not be determined by any “ideal” standard of beauty. We must empower each other to celebrate body diversity, body appreciation, self-love, and body acceptance.

Why Does Your Body Image Differ from the "Standard"?

The truth is that being thin and white is not the only thing that makes us different as black and BIPOC individuals. We have skin color, hair, internal/external messaging, and body shape.

Body Shape and Black Women

Body shape is something that can vary drastically between black women. It is something that should be celebrated and embraced, as it reflects the unique beauty of every individual. Black women often come in a variety of sizes, shapes, heights, and body types. This diversity allows for a more interesting aesthetic, one that challenges the traditional Western standard of beauty.

Black women have curves that are not only beautiful but functional. Curves are an important part of our anatomy as they help to support the spine and provide additional stability when we move or lift things. The curves also make us look feminine and give us a certain sensuality that cannot be denied. Furthermore, research has found that having curves has also been linked with improved mental health and better overall well-being in many cases, making them even more important to celebrate and embrace.

Similarly, black women may have differently shaped bodies than those typically seen in mainstream media. They may have wider hips or thicker thighs, bigger arms or smaller waists; whatever their body shape may be, it is still beautiful in its own right and should not be compared to what society says is the “ideal” body type. Such comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy or self-loathing and can damage someone’s confidence over time if left unchecked. Each body type has its unique advantages so it is important to learn how to appreciate one’s own physicality rather than constantly comparing oneself to someone else’s version of beauty. 

Skin Tone/Color

Skin tone and color are essential elements of black women's identity and something that should be celebrated. The unique combination of melanin in our skin creates one-of-a-kind shades that are unlike any other on the planet. Our skin has a richness, complexity, and vibrancy that can't be replicated or imitated. It is a deep source of pride for us. 

The range of melanin in our skin ranges from dark brown, reddish brown, yellowish brown or gold, pink or peach, and gray or silver to white. In some cases, individuals may also have blue undertones in their skin. This variation makes every black woman unique and beautiful in her own way. Our skin is not just an outward sign of who we are; it plays a critical role in protecting us from UV radiation and other environmental stressors. 

Our skin serves as a reflection of our shared history as African Americans. It is the physical evidence of the struggles we faced throughout the slavery and Jim Crow eras while celebrating blackness at the same time. We wear it like battle scars with pride; it’s an important part of how we identify ourselves within our culture and community. 

Hair

Hair is an important part of the identity of many black women. Being able to embrace and celebrate our unique hair textures and styles, regardless of how they are perceived by others, is an empowering experience that can help us to reclaim our identities. From afros and dreadlocks to twists, braid-outs, and more, black women’s hair has been historically seen as a sign of rebellion. It was seen as a way for us to express ourselves without having to conform to white beauty standards. 

Our hair is unique due to its texture and style which differs from other races. It is usually thicker than other races' hair and also tends to have more volume than other races' hair as well. Black women's hair also has a special ability to maintain natural styles such as braids, locs, and twist-outs for weeks at a time if done correctly with proper care. We are often forced into believing that our natural textures are not attractive or desirable when in actuality our hairstyles should be embraced and celebrated! 

Not only do we have an abundance of natural hairstyles but there’s also an incredible array of protective hairstyles available that are designed to protect black women’s delicate strands from harsh weather conditions. For centuries, black women have created new techniques for styling their hair by creating intricate cornrows or even using extensions added to their own strands for a voluminous look. Nowadays it’s easier than ever before for a woman with textured hair to maintain her style in any kind of environment with the help of products specifically made for the maintenance and upkeep of textured hair such as shea butter or castor oil-based products. 

Black women’s diverse range of hairstyles should be celebrated rather than criticized because it shows that we don't need anyone else's approval in order to express ourselves through our appearance. Our individualistic nature should not be judged or criticized just because it looks different from what society deems "normal." Instead, we should be allowed the freedom to embrace our differences and enjoy the beauty that comes with it!

How to love your body no matter what society tells you

Loving your body can be a difficult task, especially when society constantly throws images of unrealistic beauty ideals on our faces. But remembering the true power of self-love and appreciation can help you appreciate yourself and your body despite these external influences. Start by focusing on positive things that make you unique; it could be something as small as the shape of your eyes or the way you giggle when you laugh. All of us have beautiful qualities and traits that are worth appreciating and embracing. Focus on all the wonderful things that make you special instead of comparing yourself with others. Also, practice affirmations like repeating "I love my body for all that it does for me," which reinforces self-compassion and helps shift thoughts away from negative perceptions about your body image. Overall, if you focus on loving yourself where you are at the moment regardless of society's expectations it will help empower you to radiate your own kind of natural beauty, confidence, and joy from within without needing external confirmation.

Steps to take if you are struggling with your body image

If you are struggling with your body image due to societal pressures or self-image issues, there are steps you can take to confront and conquer these feelings. It is important to practice self-care by nurturing your mind and body and focusing on things that bring joy and positivity into your life. Make sure to surround yourself with supportive, encouraging people who remind you of how valuable you are. Being good to your body does not mean sacrificing food or exercising excessively; it just requires conscious thought about the kind of lifestyle that best serves you. Lastly, remember to be gentle with yourself - this isn't about striving for perfection but rather learning how to appreciate and value who you are at this moment in time.

Begin Therapy for Body Image Issues, Disordered Eating, Stress Eating, and More in Columbia, MO!

You are not alone if you struggle with your body image. The history of black and brown people in America has led to generations of trauma that manifests in the way we see ourselves. But it is possible to love your body no matter what society tells you. By taking small steps each day, you can begin to change the way you think about your body and eventually learn to love yourself just the way you are. Check out this blog on podcasts about eating disorders and body image for black and BIPOC women.