Beauty as defined by beauties
This new Beaute Hub five-part series on discovering the true beauty in you touches on the ways beauty strengthens, empowers, inspires, influences and transforms. We kick things off by finding out how beauty strengthens three of our Top 15 Miss Universe S'pore 2016 finalists
Nutan Rai, 24, nurse
I have learnt to love myself and appreciate my flaws and (different) look. I usually get comments about my deep-set eyes and long, sharp nose - some would even tease me and call me Pinocchio. I would always complain to my parents, but they would assure me that I am special and different. I started to find the strength to forgive, appreciate and love myself.
Luisa Gan, 22, freelance actress and model
I didn't know much about skincare when I first joined the (modelling and acting) industry. Hence, I didn't cleanse my face properly after long hours of shoots. I had a very bad breakout which lasted for half-a-year and badly affected my self-esteem. To speed up the healing process, the dermatologist advised me not to wear make-up, so I didn't wear it to university. I felt so insecure. This episode made me realise beauty is beyond skin deep.
Hazel Tay, 25, data analyst
When I was about 18 years old, I was diagnosed with pneumonia. Battling it was challenging, but (it was an) enriching (experience). I became more compassionate to the suffering of others and appreciated the value of health. It was then I realised that caring about beauty is actually good for your health. When I started caring about beauty, I slowly became stronger and it eventually helped to cure my pneumonia. Essentially, the root of beauty is health.
MORE BEAUTY TALK...
In your opinion, what makes a woman beautiful?
Nutan: Compassion. A woman who knows how to give and receive love from others.
Luisa: One who is confident in herself. Someone who is comfortable in her perfect imperfections - that is the true meaning of beauty.
Hazel: A strong, independent woman who has personality, authenticity and charm.
What is the most extreme thing you have done to yourself in the name of beauty?
Nutan: I changed my whole wardrobe, from dark-coloured clothes to bright and colourful clothes in yellow, red, orange and blue. I realised adding more colours to your life makes your life beautiful and will also make you look beautiful.
Luisa: I dyed my hair bright red. I think it was quite a daring move on. It was a different look for me and I don't regret it.
Hazel: Starving myself. It was definitely not worth it because no good comes from starving and most importantly, your body doesn't get the nutrients it deserves.
To what extent do you agree with the saying "beauty is more than skin deep"?
Nutan: Looking beautiful is a good asset but personality still plays a big part in life. At the end of the day, if you don't know how to respect someone or treat them equally, no matter how beautiful you are, it will only reflect badly on you.
Luisa: I think we live in a very realistic society where looks matter. However, looks will only get you to a certain point. Inner beauty is infectious, it will shine through your face. This is the beauty that is uniquely yours and will last when your looks expire.
Hazel: Beauty on the outside is as important as beauty on the inside. Real beauty lies in one's personality and that lasts a lifetime.
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