Beauty across cultures: Comparing makeup styles, colors, and perceptions between Emirati and Chinese women

Culture, traditions, and social expectations play an important role in determining
beauty and makeup standards. Thus, the purpose of this research project is to examine and
compare the difference between Emirati and Chinese women in terms of makeup styles,
colour preferences, and beauty perceptions.
Data were collected by means of online survey questionnaires sent to Emirati and
Chinese women living in the UAE, followed by the demonstration of proper makeup made by
a professional makeup artist. In total, 48 people took part in this study. Data were statistically
analyzed using SPSS software; descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data, whereas
thematic analysis was performed for qualitative information.
As a result of this research, cultural discrepancies between Emirati and Chinese
women in terms of makeup preferences were identified. Namely, it was discovered that
Emirati women like more bold and luxurious makeup, which implies extensive contouring,
exaggerated eye makeup and dark lipstick colours. In its turn, Chinese women tend to prefer
more natural and gentle makeup including soft colours, slight contouring and light lipsticks.
Besides, the analysis showed that culture significantly influences choices related to makeup
both among Emiratis and Chinese. Specifically, it was found that beauty standards and
makeup styles are mainly affected by Instagram, TikTok, Xiaohongshu and YouTube. As a
result of thematic analysis, it could be said that such concepts as confidence, cultural identity,
self-expression, elegance, natural beauty and happiness were strongly associated with beauty.
From this study, it became clear that there is no one universal beauty standard.
Instead, beauty standards are socially constructed and culturally specific. Although
globalization leads to the spread of beauty trends across the world, each culture preserves its
unique perception of beauty. However, there is a limitation of the study: a small number of
participants and limited geographical location. Future research may address this problem by
analysing larger samples and other cultural groups.