PETALING JAYA: Beauty filters and curated livestream personas are increasingly influencing how people present themselves online, but psychologists warn that the real concern arises when digital identities begin to replace indivi­duals’ sense of self. She said research increasingly links frequent use of beauty filters to body dissatisfaction, heightened self-criticism and anxiety, especially when users compare themselves to digitally alter­ed standards. She said casual use of filters has become part of modern digital culture and can sometimes help individuals feel more confident. While platforms such as TikTok have introduced limits on some beauty filters for minors, she said safeguards should be paired with digital literacy and mental-health awareness. Recently, the Chinese Entertain­ment Industry Association issued regulations on beauty filters and heavy makeup in its huge influencer industry, prohibiting them from using excessive beauty enhancements, inducing consu­mer spending or engaging in ranking comparisons that encourage viewers to compete financially for attention.

Source: The Star March 16, 2026 05:39 UTC