The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, a once-iconic event that had long been criticized for its narrow beauty standards, made a highly anticipated comeback this year after a six-year hiatus. This return has sparked a renewed dialogue around the shifting landscape of the beauty industry and the growing demand for more inclusive and authentic representations of beauty.Embracing a Holistic Approach to Runway Perfection
The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show has always been a meticulously curated spectacle, with teams of experts working tirelessly to perfect each model's look. From fitness trainers and diet experts to makeup artists and even plastic surgeons, the behind-the-scenes efforts are nothing short of remarkable. This year's show, however, has signaled a shift in the industry's approach, with a greater emphasis on natural beauty and subtle enhancements.
The Rise of Minimalist Enhancements
Gone are the days of overfilled lips and exaggerated features. The current trend in the beauty industry is all about precision and subtlety. Plastic surgeon Aaron Gilson, DO, from Portland, shares that many models are reluctant to undergo major procedures before a big event, opting instead for more discreet treatments like laser peels, hydro facials, and customized skincare regimens prescribed by dermatologists or plastic surgeons.Hyaluronic acid-based fillers with lower viscosity and elasticity are becoming the preferred choice for achieving natural-looking results. These softer, less stiff fillers preserve facial movement and provide a more seamless integration with the natural contours of the face. One particularly trending area is the temples, where a touch of filler can restore fullness and support the skin without making any obvious changes.Botox is also being used more strategically, with microdoses relaxing the muscles around the eyes to lift the brows and open up the eye area without the dreaded "frozen" look. As plastic surgeon Dr. Prem Tripathi notes in a viral TikTok video, the industry is now embracing a time where the procedures are not easily detectable, with clients seeking results that appear entirely natural.
Skin Boosters: The "No-Makeup" Look
Skin boosters are another rising trend, catering to the demand for a flawless, "no-makeup" appearance. These hydrating injectables use hyaluronic acid to improve skin texture and elasticity, without adding significant volume. Unlike traditional fillers, skin boosters bio-remodel the skin by promoting the production of endogenous collagen and elastin, enhancing overall skin quality and hydration.Recent studies have shown the efficacy of skin boosters like Profhilo and Belotero Revive in improving skin moisturization and overall skin quality. This approach aligns with the industry's shift towards more natural-looking results, as models and celebrities alike seek to enhance their natural beauty without the appearance of obvious cosmetic work.
Rejuvenating the Eyes: Blepharoplasty and Botulinum Toxin
The eyes are often the first area to show signs of aging, and it's no surprise that there's a renewed interest in treatments to refresh this delicate region. Blepharoplasty, a surgical procedure that removes excess skin from the upper or lower eyelids, is one of the top five most sought-after plastic surgeries in the United States, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.For those not quite ready for surgical intervention, injecting botulinum toxin around the eyes can provide a well-tolerated alternative. This temporary relaxation of the orbicularis oculi and depressor muscles can result in a mild elevation of the lateral brow and increased eye exposure, creating a more alert and youthful appearance.
Embracing Natural Curves: The Rise of Fat Grafting
The beauty industry has also seen a rise in the popularity of fat grafting, a technique where fat from liposuction is transferred to areas like the breasts or buttocks. This "ballerina breast" approach allows for subtle enhancement without the need for implants, providing a more natural-looking result that aligns with the current trend towards minimalist interventions.
Fitness and Nutrition: Fueling the Runway
The models gracing the Victoria's Secret runway are not just relying on cosmetic treatments to achieve their flawless appearances. They are also putting in the hard work through rigorous exercise regimens and carefully curated diets.Renowned trainer Joe Holder, who has worked with models like Bella Hadid, Romee Strijd, Barbara Palvin, and Georgia Fowler, has shared that these supermodels regularly engage in a combination of cardio and strength training. Interestingly, research has shown that while both cardio and resistance training improve skin elasticity, only resistance training, such as weight lifting, can thicken the dermis and reduce specific inflammatory markers linked to skin degradation.In terms of diet, models are now embracing a more balanced and sustainable approach, moving away from the extreme measures of the past. As Barbara Palvin mentioned, she was "listening to [her] body" and eating what she wanted during the latest show, feeling better than ever. Small, sustainable dietary changes, such as reducing processed foods and sugar, can have a significant impact on skin health, as they help counteract the effects of glycation and promote skin resilience.
A Shift Towards Authenticity and Inclusivity
The return of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show has not only highlighted the industry's evolving aesthetic preferences but also the growing demand for more authentic and inclusive representations of beauty. The brand's decision to feature a wider range of models, including plus-sized and transgender individuals, has been a significant step in the right direction, though the sincerity of these changes remains a topic of debate.Regardless of the brand's intentions, the beauty industry as a whole is undergoing a transformative shift, with consumers seeking health-focused, subtle enhancements that enhance natural beauty rather than drastically alter it. This shift presents an opportunity for physicians working in the field of esthetics to embrace treatments that align with this new era of beauty, such as gentle tweakments and skin boosters, and to champion a more holistic approach to aesthetic enhancement.As the industry continues to evolve, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show's comeback serves as a powerful reminder that the definition of beauty is no longer confined to a narrow set of ideals. Instead, it is a celebration of diversity, authenticity, and a growing appreciation for the natural beauty that lies within us all.
