The Mental Health Impact of Idealized Beauty Standards in Media and Advertising on Teenagers

This research explores the psychological impact of idealized beauty standards perpetuated by media and advertising on teenagers. Drawing from global and Indian contexts, it examines how exposure to digitally altered and socially constructed beauty ideals contributes to body dissatisfaction, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem among adolescents. Studies from the World Health Organization, the Royal Society for Public Health, and the International Journal of Indian Psychology reveal that constant comparison to unrealistic images creates deep emotional insecurities. The paper also highlights the dual nature of beauty marketing, its potential for both empowerment and harm; through campaigns like Dove’s Real Beauty and Levi’s #IShapeMyWorld. Policy-level solutions such as stricter advertising regulations, media transparency, and the integration of media literacy into school curricula are proposed. Ultimately, the study argues that redefining beauty through authenticity and inclusivity is essential for protecting adolescent mental health in an increasingly image-driven world