Many of us struggle with dissatisfaction about our appearance at some point in life. Whether it’s a feature we wish we could change or an overall feeling of not quite measuring up, these thoughts can be hard to shake. While self-acceptance is an admirable goal, it’s not always easy to achieve, especially if you feel your confidence or happiness is being affected.

The truth is, you're not alone. Everyone has insecurities, even those who appear perfectly confident on the outside. The good news? If you’re unhappy with how you look and it’s weighing you down, there are options available to help you feel better about yourself. From small lifestyle changes to more significant steps, these solutions can make a difference—not just in your appearance but in how you feel about it.

Let’s explore some possibilities to help you take control of your self-image and confidence.

Before we get into this it’s important that everyone remembers a couple of important things. First, no one is entirely happy with the way they look. I don’t care how many times they post pictures on Instagram or take snaps and selfies. Even the most seemingly self-assured person will be partially insecure about how they appear. Psychologists will tell you most people share pictures because they have a desire to get affirmation. Does that sound like they’re confident to you?

The second fact to remember is that beauty is a matter of perspective. Sure, there’s a typical version of what society deems to be beautiful. A beauty stereotype if you will, but it’s completely ridiculous and here’s why. As human beings, we are attracted to people who have symmetrical faces. However, there’s a catch here because if a face is completely symmetrical, it looks weird. It makes people feel uncomfortable. It becomes unattractive, and that should tell you everything you need to know about beauty and perception.

Similarly, some of the things we find attractive are related to traits that have stuck around after evolution. For instance, many women find hairy men attractive, and they like thicker eyebrows. Now I’m not saying you consciously seek out men with thick eyebrows. But it could part of the reason you find certain people attractive.  Personally, I prefer men with less hair, so I break the mould on this one.

All that said, I realise that being unhappy with the way you look can be incredibly difficult. You might wake up every morning and wish you could change everything about yourself. The words “It could be worse” or “be thankful for what you’ve got” don’t help either. They really don’t help if you’re not personally happy with your appearance.

The good news is that there are ways you can change your appearance. I am not happy with the way I look, so I have done a few things about it to improve my confidence, from braces and cosmetic dentitrsy, to improving my diet and lifestyle to aesthetics and cosmetic surgery.  I have experience in all of these and although I may never internally be 100% happy with how I look, I am feeling so much more confident and no longer feel embarrased by my face or let it consume me everyday, which it did before for many, many years.  I’ve got a few ideas that you may want to consider if you are unhappy with the way you look and it's dragging you down. Though please, do think about this carefully before you make a final decision. Remember the way you look has shaped who you are.  

So if you're unhappy with appearance and want to do something about it, here are your options.

Dermatological Options

If you're looking for solutions to address specific skin concerns like moles or acne, dermatological options might be worth considering. Advanced technology and medical procedures have made it possible to tackle these issues head-on. For example, individuals dealing with stubborn acne sometimes turn to laser skin surgery as a last resort. Take Cameron Diaz, who has been open about her struggles with severe acne and her choice to undergo regular laser treatments to manage it. It's important to remember that seeking dermatological treatments is nothing to be ashamed of, and there are clinics out there offering various procedures that could benefit you.

When exploring this avenue, it's essential to research and find a reputable aesthetic clinic such as Light Touch Clinic. Consider what you hope to achieve and what you're willing to do to reach your goals. However, it's crucial to acknowledge a few factors before diving in.

Keep in mind that the results of these procedures may not be immediate. It's possible that your situation might worsen temporarily before it gets better, so patience is key.

Also, consider the cost. Dermatological treatments like the ones I'm discussing often come at a price. Ensure that you have the financial means to cover the expenses and determine if the investment is worthwhile. Seek out a reputable clinic and gain a clear understanding of what you'll be paying for.

Dermatological options provide potential solutions for specific skin concerns, but it's crucial to approach them with careful consideration.

Cosmetic Surgery

If you're looking for a more drastic approach, cosmetic surgery might be an option to consider. Every year, countless men and women contemplate this route to address aspects of their appearance they are unhappy with. Thanks to advanced technology and medical advancements, it's now possible to undergo procedures to address both minor and more significant issues.

Cosmetic surgery can range from addressing a small mole on your cheek to reshaping physical features like the nose through rhinoplasty or even a life altering full facelift surgery. It's crucial to approach this decision thoughtfully and gather relevant information before proceeding.

Researching reputable cosmetic surgeons is the first step. These surgeons offer a range of procedures that could potentially be beneficial for you and will offer a consultation (often paid) to discuss your requirements and the possibilities unique to you. However, it's essential to understand that cosmetic surgery isn't suitable for everyone, and there are important factors to consider.

First, it's important to acknowledge that surgery often involves a process, meaning that instant results may not be guaranteed. In some cases, things might even worsen before they improve.  Some cosmetic surgeries can take months to heal with swelling, pain and bruising common during the healing process.

Second, keep in mind that cosmetic surgery may result in a complete alteration of your appearance. While this may be precisely what you desire, it's crucial to recognise the potential psychological impact of such a profound life change.

Third, consider the financial aspect. Cosmetic treatments can be quite expensive. Before proceeding, ensure that you have the necessary funds and carefully evaluate whether the investment aligns with your priorities. Choose a reputable surgeon and clinic and thoroughly understand the costs involved.  Cheapest is not always best when it comes to invasive surgery, so don't base your decision on a surgeon on price alone.

Cosmetic surgery is an extreme option that requires careful thought and consideration due to the significant impact it can have on your life.

Non-Surgical Aesthetic Treatments

For those seeking aesthetic enhancements without going under the knife, non-surgical treatments such as face fillers and Botox offer alternative options. These procedures have gained popularity among individuals looking for subtle improvements without the need for invasive surgery.

When considering non-surgical aesthetic treatments, it's essential to explore reputable clinics and practitioners that specialise in these procedures. Understanding your desired outcomes and the extent of change you're comfortable with is crucial. However, before proceeding, there are a few factors to bear in mind.

First, it's important to manage your expectations regarding instant results. Non-surgical treatments may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired outcome, so patience is key.

Second, while these treatments are less invasive than surgery, they still involve altering your appearance. Take a moment to reflect on whether you're prepared for potential changes and how they may impact your self-perception.

Third, cost remains an important consideration. While cheaper than surgery, non-surgical aesthetic treatments still come with a price tag, and it's crucial to evaluate whether the investment aligns with your budget and priorities. Research reputable clinics and gain a clear understanding of the costs associated with these procedures.  Recognise that non-surgical aesthetic treatments won't last forever and may need re-doing every few months to maintain your new look.  This is an ongoing cost and commitment you'll need to be prepared for if you want to continue.

Non-surgical aesthetic treatments offer a middle ground between dermatological options and cosmetic surgery, but it's vital to approach them with a well-informed perspective and realistic expectations.

Changing Your Diet 

You might be unhappy with how dry or pasty your skin looks. It could be the bags under your eyes that are making you unhappy or the wrinkles on your skin. These aesthetic issues do not need surgery to be fixed. In some cases, they can be sorted out simply by changing your diet!

You would be amazed how changing your diet could affect the way you look. For instance, eating high amounts of sugar is likely to make your skin look greasy. If you want clear skin, you should cut back the level of sugar you eat and drink more water. Drinking water washes out your skin and cleans your pores.

Personally, for me, when I went vegan and cut out dairy my skin improved bucketloads.  I commonly had acne breakouts with small pimples covering my entire forehead and one side of my face, and was never without spots.  Since going completely vegan in 2018 I've rarely had a pimple now.  Sure, I get the odd mini breakout just before my period due to hormones, but these clear up in a couple of days, and are nothing like how bad my skin used to be.

I also started drinking distilled water in 2018 which I believe has also helped my skin improve.

 

You may also be interested to know that other foods can affect the way you look. For instance, chewing on celery will soak up the fluid underneath your eyes. This will get rid of those heavy bags that you’ve become accustomed to having. Similarly, by eating a diet filled with the right nutrients and minerals you can make sure that your body looks great.

Eating the right diet can also prevent certain medical conditions which affect the way you look.  Unhealthy dietary choices, such as consuming high amounts of processed foods, refined carbs, and alcohol, can contribute to the development of gynecomastia, a condition that causes enlarged male breast tissue. 

Eating a proper diet can also be beneficial for individuals with eczema, a chronic skin condition characterised by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. While dietary changes may not completely cure eczema, they can help manage the symptoms and improve the overall condition of the skin. Including foods rich in anti-inflammatory properties, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in flaxseeds, and walnuts, as well as foods containing quercetin, such as apples, onions, and leafy greens, may help reduce inflammation and alleviate eczema symptoms. Additionally, staying hydrated and consuming foods high in water content, like watermelon and cucumbers, can help maintain skin moisture. 

If you want to look fantastic, you should work on balancing your diet with the right fruit and vegetables. Try to cut out the junk food, the rubbish and I promise you will look far better than before. This isn’t about losing weight. It’s about keeping your skin fresh and your body healthy.

If you do want to lose weight or you're unhappy with your figure you’ll need an exercise routine to go with your healthy eating plan.  It’s better to make this a lifestyle choice too, rather than a fad.

Training and Fitness

That brings us to exercise and fitness. A lot of people are unhappy with their appearance due to standards of fitness and physique. You might want to put on muscle, lose weight or tone your body. Either way, it all comes down to the right exercise routine. There are few exercise routines you can try to get your body back in shape. You might want to start with some small, morning exercises like sit-ups and pushups. These will help you tone your body particularly if you work up to completing twenty-five or fifty each morning.

You don’t have to go to the gym for hours every week to get in shape. Even if you are busy, there are ways to fit exercise into a busy lifestyle.  Many experts believe seven minutes of exercise is all you need as long as you are pushing yourself. Olympic athletes complete ten minutes of pure exercise with only a few ten-second breaks. This is proven to be one of the best ways to work out. It’s also likely the fastest way to lose weight and put on muscle.

You may also want to think about the part of your body that you are attempting to improve. If you’re working out your entire body, you should think about trying running. Running isn’t just about working out your legs. It will help your arms as well if you use the right technique.  You can even buy wrist weights to wear whilst running.  As well this, it will tone up your stomach.

On the other hand if you’re unhappy with solely your legs, you might like to try cycling. Cycling is one of the best ways for getting stronger legs that are more toned. You can use a machine at the gym or take the bike out at the weekend.

Remember, if you’re trying to build muscle or even tone up it’s important not to overdo it. Exercising too much and eating too little will lead to a weaker body and lower amounts of muscle.

Of course, you might be surprised to learn that the problem with the way you look could be mental, not physical...

The Effects of Stress

High levels of stress can have a negative impact on our appearance. If you are constantly stressed, you might have bags under your eyes due to lack of sleep. Or, you might find that your hair is constantly falling out. Your body could be bloated despite the fact that you eat a good diet. Your skin might look past even if you’re a healthy eater. It’s true that you can live a completely healthy lifestyle and stress could still be your downfall.

The first thing that you need to think about is getting a good night’s rest. It’s so important for your body that you do get to sleep at night. You need to make sure that your body has time to rest and rejuvenate. If you struggle to sleep at night, don’t immediately resort to sleeping pills. Start by turning off the electrical devices in your room. There is some evidence to suggest that electrical devices do affect people’s sleeping patterns.

Then, you should consider some activities that will help you reduce the stress in your life. This might be breathing exercises, such as deep belly breathing or mindful meditation. These practices can help calm your mind, slow down your heart rate, and promote a sense of relaxation. Engaging in regular physical exercise is another effective way to manage stress. Whether it's going for a walk, practicing yoga, or participating in a sport you enjoy, exercise releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones that help alleviate stress and boost your mood.

In addition to breathing exercises and physical activity, it's essential to carve out time for self-care activities that bring you joy and help you unwind. This might include indulging in a warm bath, reading a book, listening to soothing music, or engaging in a creative hobby. Whatever brings you a sense of peace and contentment, make it a priority to include it in your routine.

Seeking support from loved ones or professionals can be immensely beneficial. Don't hesitate to reach out to trusted friends or family members and share your feelings. Sometimes, talking about your stressors can provide relief and offer a fresh perspective. If you find that stress is significantly impacting your daily life, it may be helpful to consult with a mental health professional who can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs.

Remember, while stress can take a toll on your appearance, it's within your power to manage and reduce its effects. By incorporating relaxation techniques, physical activity, self-care, and seeking support, you can effectively combat stress and its negative impact on your well-being. Prioritise self-care and stress management as integral parts of your journey towards looking and feeling your best.

More ways to change your appearance if you are unhappy:

In addition to the options already mentioned in this blog post, there are a few other ways to change your appearance:

• Makeup: Makeup can be a powerful tool to enhance your features and change your overall look. By using different techniques and products, you can highlight your favorite features, create illusions, and experiment with different styles.
• Hairstyling: Changing your hairstyle can dramatically alter your appearance. You can try different haircuts, colours, or styles to find a look that suits you best. Whether it's a simple trim, a bold color change, or experimenting with different hair accessories, the options are endless.
• Wardrobe and fashion: The way you dress can greatly influence how you perceive yourself and how others perceive you. Experimenting with different styles, colours, and clothing combinations can help you find a look that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
• Posture and body language: Your posture and body language play a significant role in how others perceive you. Standing tall, maintaining good posture, and adopting confident body language can make you appear more self-assured and attractive.
• Smile and dental care: A bright and confident smile can significantly improve your appearance. Taking care of your oral health, including regular dental check-ups and teeth whitening if desired, can help you achieve a beautiful smile.
• Hygiene and grooming: Paying attention to your personal hygiene and grooming habits can make a noticeable difference in your appearance. Simple practices like regular bathing, skincare routines, and maintaining clean and trimmed nails can enhance your overall look.

Final word

Remember, it's essential to approach any changes to your appearance with self-acceptance and a healthy mindset. While external changes can contribute to your overall confidence and well-being, it's crucial to prioritise self-love and acceptance of your unique qualities.

I hope you found this information useful and remember that looks aren’t everything.  But if you are truly unhappy with your appearance and it’s affecting your day to day happiness and wellbeing, you do have a wide variety of options, just consider them really carefully.

Before you go...

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