Even AI has unrealistic beauty standards!

Mirror mirror on the wall, stop worrying about how you look and just be yourself y'all!

I was researching for my International Women’s Day article the other and I decided to spice things up with AI-generated images. One of the topics I wanted to discuss was unrealistic beauty standards. Attempting to portray a cartoon character embracing her quirks like acne and dark spots, happily gazing at herself in the mirror, the AI had other plans. It consistently generated flawlessly smooth faces, no matter how many skin problems I added to the description.?

I was just FURIOUS. March couldn't come soon enough for me to express my disappointment about this. Let's talk about those 'clean girl aesthetic' reels on Instagram — ever noticed how folks with skin quirks rarely steal the spotlight in that trend?

In my corporate days (battling acne and its stubborn scars), I used to put on a LOT of make up. Without my makeup armor, I felt like I was missing the 'presentable, professional, and beautiful' memo. This feeling definitely faded away a bit when I started working at a start up company, then completely vanished when I became my own boss. But I can't help but wonder if the same old feelings would creep back in if I were to get back into the corporate world.

While there's no crystal-clear answer, this AI incident definitely brought some essential lessons rushing back. I thought, why not share them with all the amazing women out there battling with similar feelings.

• It is not you, it is them.
• The 'clean girl aesthetic is universal and suits everyone.
• The done criteria for presentability isn’t flawless perfection.
• Acne, scars, dark spots, or other skin imperfections are natural, and your well-being is what truly counts.

A final reflection is on the significance of a safety net, particularly for women. Let's stand by and uplift one another. It saddens me to think that most women can relate to what I've shared. Therefore, let’s spread love, and be a part of the safety net of the women around us.

I’d love to hear your personal experiences, so don't hesitate to share them in the comments or send me a DM.