There’s a powerful new photo series that’s turning the usual ideas of beauty on their head, encouraging women to embrace a natural look by letting their armpit hair grow.
Long before we had all the modern methods of hair removal like razors, waxing, and lasers, people were already removing hair. This practice dates back to the Stone Age, using simple tools like seashells and sharp stones.
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Hairlessness was seen as desirable and a mark of sophistication.
A Woman’s Responsibility
By the early 20th century, society had firmly established the notion that a woman’s responsibility was to be hairless. Anything else was viewed as undesirable and in need of correction.
Heather Widdows, author of “Perfect Me: Beauty as an Ethical Ideal,” expressed that, “It’s been heavily criticized – it still is – and associated with shame. Today, many women feel obligated to shave, feeling they have no other choice. But gradually, this perception is evolving.”
‘Challenging Old Notions’
Now, amidst this long history of conventional beauty ideals, women are choosing to reject these standards and embrace a more authentic representation of femininity.
“Armpit hair is often labeled as disgusting, unhygienic, and masculine,” explained Ben Hopper, a photographer based in London, to Bored Panda.
Through his work, Hopper challenges this taboo, questioning why female armpit hair is viewed so negatively.
‘The Unconventional Beauty’
In his bold project “Natural Beauty,” Ben Hopper examines how people react to women with armpit hair.
“The series contrasts mainstream beauty standards with the raw, unconventional look of female armpit hair,” Hopper told the Huffington Post. “I believe the photos will surprise many, which is partly my intention.”
‘A Source of Strength’
Started in 2007, Hopper’s project features personal stories from models and actresses who are part of this growing trend. They openly discuss their experiences of self-acceptance.
One model, going by the name Kyotocat, shared, “I felt liberated when I let it grow. It was liberating and brought back a sense of confidence.”
Sophie Rose, another participant, added, “Nurturing my natural body hair made me feel strong, like I’m not adhering to what others demand of me.”
Gabriela Eva, who allowed her hair to grow naturally for the shoot, found strength in defying societal judgments. “I eventually felt empowered,” said Eva.
Political or Personal?
Sienna shared that growing armpit hair was less about empowerment and more about comfort. “I don’t want my body to always be seen as a political statement,” she explained.
Similarly, Emilie Bostdt from Sweden remarked that having armpit hair shouldn’t be seen as a political statement. “The fact that it’s almost a ‘statement’ to let natural hair grow is strange, and that’s a reason to embrace it,” she said.
Redefining Beauty
While embracing body hair is the essence of the project, Hopper emphasized that his goal isn’t to persuade women to grow armpit hair.
“I aim for people to reconsider the standards of beauty, not dictating them,” he clarified.
With campaigns like “Natural Beauty” gaining attention, it’s possible for society to broaden its understanding of what beauty truly means.
What do you think about this movement towards natural beauty? Share with others and let’s see!
