The media is constantly circulating the white face, associating the idea of beauty with "conventionally recognized Caucasian features" (Kaw 4). Racial minorities strive for this kind of beauty through lightening of skin, straightening of hair, blue-eyed contacts, etc. Even permanent alterations are implemented as a "means for these women as racial minorities to attain better socioeconomic status" (Kaw 81). Not only are they striving for an 'ideal face', but also seeking to distance themselves from the negative associations of their own racial characteristics.
Some Asian-American women request "double-eyelid" surgery, which ultimately makes the eyes look wider. There exists many associations of Asian features with negative personality traits, and a wider eye look will supposedly allow these women to look more Caucasian. While it is argued that those who seek out cosmetic surgery are really expressing a freedom of choice, there seems to be an overlook of what society uses as markers of racial identity. As well as the disregard of the Caucasian face as the standard of beauty in American society, which is understood through the consistent presence of the Caucasian face within the media.
The idea of beauty is as specific as details of the face, as society constantly pushes for wider eyes, flatter nose or thinner lips. Although alteration of the body could be an exploration of the body and process of beautification, but with the media promoting Caucasian bodies as the models of beauty - desired body types will be referential to Caucasian characteristics.
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