Are you addicted to using filters compared to your phone camera? Filters make subtle and not-so-subtle changes in pictures. A bland look can be transformed into a spectacular look through the lens of filters instantly. Though filters are not bad in themselves, excessive use and addiction can pose several problems. Social media is not helping matters as almost all its app has filters. The filters will change your eye colour, a smaller nose, pink cheeks, a slimmer face and fuller lips. Most filters can also eliminate pimples, and wrinkles and smoothen out the face. The transformation may be fun, but it can affect one’s mental health.
The excessive use of filters has amounted to what is called Snapchat dysmorphia or selfie dysmorphia. This mental condition is dissatisfaction with self, caused by social media. In an exclusive report obtained by the Wall Street Journal, it was reported that 32 per cent of teen girls felt bad about their bodies and Instagram made them feel terrible. Some were considering suicide and this was linked to Facebook and Instagram use.
Dissatisfied with themselves, many people want to look like the version filters project. They want to get plastic surgery to a face-tuned or photoshopped body shown by filters as the template. Research shows that people who use filters may have low self-esteem and insecurities. They are usually self-seeking and constantly need validation from other people. The standards of beauty have changed to mirror the celebrities and influencers we see looking gorgeous and near-perfect in their pictures. As result, people have become dissatisfied with their lives and bodies even though most of their pictures are heavily edited with filters.
To curb the insecurities and excessive desire for validation from people, you need to accept who you are- your flaws, good features and all. Start posting more pictures of yourself in your natural state. Don’t accept the standards perpetuated on social media for they are usually exaggerated and unrealistic. Also, get rid of the perfection mindset. You need to channel the negativity to be better. Invest in good skincare and good clothes to look better. Finally, take a break from social media, understand that nobody is perfect or has a perfect life.