TED talks. Videos, or rather, lectures, from inspiring speakers on interesting subjects. They cover everything; from science and sleep patterns, to baby talk and, well, beauty. If you’ve got some time to spare (like waiting for a mani to dry, or a microwave to ping), we’d really recommend taking a watch. We’ve rounded up the five ‘best’ – talks that really got us thinking – from in-the-know speakers, on beauty and confidence. A powerful playlist, ready for watching. Enjoy.
By Rachel Spedding
-
1 A celebration of natural hair: Cheyenne Cochrane
Cheyenne Cochrane is a vocal ambassador of the natural hair movement. The storyteller, marketer, and writer aims to motivate individuals to embrace their hair through social media, and diminishing the ‘ideal’. The Level Up blog uses humour to discuss conventions, acceptance and beauty routines. Watch the video, read the blog, accept yourself (and those wondrous curls).
-
2 The beauty of human skin in every colour - Angélica Dass
The work of photographer Angélica Dass, this moving TED talk considers abolishing discrimination of skin colour through a portrait project. Humanae is a physical exploration of skin tone, comparing an area of colour on the human body to Pantone shades. Dass strives to ‘push the share button in [the] computer and brain’ and highlight the ‘true colours’ of humanity through the project, and her personal story. You’re going to feel this one.
-
3 Why thinking you're ugly is bad for you: Meaghan Ramsey
Of course we know it already, but Meaghan Ramsey stands as the ultimate ambassador in punctuating exactly why you should never consider yourself ‘ugly’. Addressing the sentiment that, every month, around 10,000 people Google the phrase ‘am I ugly?’ – seriously – Ramsey discusses the impact of current ‘ideals’ for the younger generation, as a consequence of the image-obsessed (online) culture in which we live.
-
4 How your brain decides what is beautiful: Anjan Chatterjee
Chatterjee uses tools from evolutionary psychology (Google it), and cognitive neuroscience (Google that too) to manage one of Mother Nature’s most interesting concepts: ‘beauty’. The neuroscientist questions why certain configurations of line, colour and form ‘excite us’, and determine varying responses. Chatterjee explores the 'why’ of beauty, and how the brain sees one as beautiful, and others as not. A behind-the-scenes of the brain, if you like.
-
5 Looks aren't everything. Believe me, I'm a model: Cameron Russell
Though you might recognise her from the Victoria Secret catwalk, you’re soon to remember Cameron Russell as the model who changed our perception on looks. Having won the ‘generic lottery’, as a model from an early age, Russell acknowledges the power of appearance, and that the long-standing legacy of beauty as synonymous with the ‘white-skinned, tall, slender female’ needs to change. Amen to that.
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Click here to discover amazing salons in your area.
FAQs
What topics do these TED talks on beauty and confidence explore?
These TED talks cover subjects like embracing natural hair, abolishing discrimination based on skin colour, and changing perceptions of beauty standards. Speakers also discuss the impact of self-image on confidence and how the brain perceives beauty.
How does Cheyenne Cochrane inspire people with natural hair?
Cheyenne Cochrane encourages people to embrace their natural hair and challenge beauty norms. Through storytelling and humour on social media and her blog, she motivates others to accept themselves and celebrate their unique curls.
What is Angélica Dass’s Humanae project about?
Humanae is a portrait project that compares human skin tones to Pantone shades to highlight the true diversity of skin colours. Angélica Dass uses this project to challenge discrimination and showcase humanity’s wide range of natural beauty.
Why does Meaghan Ramsey believe worrying about being ‘ugly’ is harmful?
Meaghan Ramsey points out that negative self-perception, like searching ‘am I ugly?’, can harm confidence, especially among the younger generation. She discusses how image-obsessed online culture shapes harmful beauty ideals.
How can you book beauty treatments quickly using Treatwell?
You can easily book beauty appointments online with Treatwell at your favourite salons. The process is simple, hassle-free, and lets you schedule services while you’re on the go.