In a world obsessed with youth, where anti-aging creams and cosmetic procedures are commonplace, the true beauty of aging often goes unnoticed, underappreciated and, sadly, even feared. People are inundated with the idea that the ageless aesthetic is necessary, and that the slightest imperfections of aging must be erased. 

It’s time we shift our perspective, acknowledging the beauty of aging and challenging the notion that youth is the pinnacle of attractiveness. Just like in “Barbie” when Barbie (Margot Robbie) says “You’re so beautiful” to the old lady (Ann Roth) at the bus stop, it is time we see the beauty in age the same way we see it in youth — and follow in the footsteps of the old woman who replies “I know it!”

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As society has advanced, our fixation on maintaining youth has become increasingly pervasive, with new articles being published each year titled, “[number] ways to look younger, according to experts,” and research studies aimed at scientifically manufacturing rejuvenation. It is not uncommon for individuals to invest a great amount of time, energy and resources in the pursuit of looking young again. The cosmetic industry capitalizes on this obsession, sending the message that aging is a problem that must be solved. 

Aging should not be seen as a problem. Aging is a testament to the wisdom and experience that come with living a full life. It reveals endurance, resilience and an accumulation of stories etched in the lines of our faces. The beauty of aging is not in spite of those lines, but because of them.

Each wrinkle represents a moment lived, a challenge overcome and a lesson learned. We should treasure these marks as badges of honor, rather than attempting to conceal them.

One of the most captivating aspects of aging is the wealth of wisdom that accompanies it. As we grow older, we acquire a deeper understanding of the world, our place in it and the people around us. Thus, in a society that frequently prioritizes youthful beauty over wisdom, it’s time to redefine our standards of attractiveness.

Moreover, aging brings a sense of liberation. As the years pass, the burdens of societal expectations often begin to diminish, and this should include the expectations of aging gracefully. The need to conform to fleeting beauty standards should fade away, allowing us to express ourselves more authentically. 

Surely, self-confidence, which we can achieve through this liberation, is more attractive. We can radiate self-assuredness and contentment in life when we no longer have doubts about if we fit within society’s demarcations of beauty.

The physical changes that come with aging should be celebrated rather than feared. Gray hair, for example, is an emblem of wisdom and character — a testament to a life well-lived and well-earned.

As we age, our bodies undergo transformations — changes that are not indicators of decline but rather signs of a life rich in experiences. Sure, our skin may lose some of its youthful elasticity, but it gains texture and depth. Our bodies may bear scars and imperfections, but each one tells a unique story. We should celebrate these physical changes and see the beauty in what is arguably more wonderful: living life.

Another alluring aspect of aging is the deepening of relationships. As we grow older, we tend to value the quality of our connections over the quantity of them. We become more selective in our networks and gravitate toward those who understand and appreciate us. This ability to forge profound and lasting connections is a form of beauty that transcends the superficial.

Unfortunately, the media and popular culture tend to paint aging negatively. Advertising, films and television perpetuate the myth that youth is synonymous with beauty, reinforcing unrealistic and often unattainable beauty standards. 

For example, the obsession with clear skin in South Korea can be harmful since it places excessive pressure on both the youth and adults — and also promotes Korean skin care products, which has become a multibillion dollar industry. 

With all these constant reminders of what beauty means today — looking young — there are so many risks that come with it, such as low self-esteem, body dysmorphic disorder and even financial strain. This not only affects self-esteem but also perpetuates a culture of ageism.

To challenge this narrative and encourage more inclusivity, we need a paradigm shift. We must redefine beauty to encompass the richness and depth of aging. It is time to embrace the elegance of aging, celebrate the liberation and cherish the deepening of relationships it brings. 

Let us recognize that genuine beauty transcends the eradication of wrinkles; it resides in the narratives etched in the soul, the wisdom distilled from life’s lessons and the opulence of a well-lived existence.