On May 6, 2025, Egyptian actress Mai Ezz El-Din shared a video on her TikTok account, revealing her secrets to maintaining fresh skin. In the video, she emphasized her preference for natural methods over cosmetic products, stating, "Every three days, I wash my face with soap and apply natural oil. Occasionally, I wipe my face with rose water. I don't use creams or unnatural products." This revelation has resonated with her fans, who often seek beauty tips from celebrities.
Ezz El-Din’s approach to skincare reflects a growing trend among individuals who are increasingly wary of the chemical ingredients found in many commercial beauty products. As more people turn to natural remedies, the actress's video highlights a significant shift in consumer behavior, especially in the realm of skincare.
However, while Ezz El-Din promotes natural beauty, a darker side of beauty culture is emerging, particularly due to the pervasive use of beauty filters on social media. Experts warn that these filters, often designed to enhance appearance, can lead to severe psychological issues among users. A report from Sky News Arabia outlines how excessive reliance on beauty filters can contribute to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
Psychologist Marwan Ismail explains that many users of beauty filters struggle with self-confidence regarding their appearance. "A significant number of beauty filter users do not feel confident about their looks, whether it’s their face or body. They try to hide what they perceive as flaws through these applications," he states. This lack of confidence can escalate, leading to a complete absence of self-esteem and ultimately resulting in depression due to dissatisfaction with one’s natural appearance.
Dr. Ahmed Abdel Azim, a psychologist specializing in addiction treatment, further elaborates on the psychological impact of beauty filters. He notes that these filters create a false sense of beauty, leading young people to judge their appearance more harshly. "Beauty filters can cause a sense of 'grandiosity' among young men and women, making them look much more attractive than they are in reality. Consequently, they find themselves trapped in this false image they project on social media platforms like Snapchat, Facebook, and Instagram," he explains.
This phenomenon can lead to social isolation, as individuals may avoid real-life interactions to maintain the illusion created by their filtered images. They become prisoners of their own digital personas, fearful that their true appearance will not meet the expectations set by their online representations.
Research from a London University indicates that the use of beauty filters is widespread, with 92% of young people in the United States, Britain, and France admitting to using them. Additionally, Meta, the parent company of Facebook, reported that 600 million users engage with beauty filters. These statistics underscore the prevalence of beauty filters in modern society, raising alarms about their potential consequences.
Dr. Ahmed Abdel Fattah, a technology expert in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, warns that many users overlook the reality that beauty filters are merely tools for enhancing images. "People have begun to use these filters as instruments for changing reality permanently," he states. He highlights various types of filters, such as those that create a slimmer appearance or adjust facial features, emphasizing that while these tools can be used occasionally to enhance one’s look, relying on them consistently to portray a false image can lead to dangerous psychological developments.
As the conversation around beauty filters evolves, it raises critical questions about self-acceptance and the impact of social media on mental health. The allure of perfect images can be tempting, but the cost to one’s mental well-being is becoming increasingly evident. For many, the pursuit of an idealized appearance can lead to a cycle of dissatisfaction and despair.
Mai Ezz El-Din’s commitment to natural beauty serves as a refreshing counter-narrative in a landscape dominated by filtered perfection. Her approach encourages individuals to embrace their natural selves, reminding them that beauty does not require enhancement through artificial means. In a world where social media often dictates standards of beauty, Ezz El-Din’s message resonates strongly, advocating for authenticity over illusion.
As the dialogue surrounding beauty filters and mental health continues, it becomes essential for users to cultivate a healthy relationship with their self-image, recognizing the difference between reality and the curated perfection seen online. The challenge lies in striking a balance between enhancing one’s appearance and maintaining self-acceptance, a feat that requires conscious effort in today’s visually driven society.
