11 Boomer Beauty Standards That No Longer Make Sense

Beauty trends evolve with time, and what was once considered the gold standard for looking stylish or sophisticated might not hold up today. Many boomer-era beauty ideals, from hair trends to makeup rules, dictated strict expectations for grooming, body image, and self-expression.

However, modern generations have challenged and redefined beauty, shifting toward healthier, more inclusive, and self-expressive standards.

1. The Perm Craze

For years, getting a perm was practically a rite of passage. Whether it was the ultra-curly looks of the 1980s or the soft waves of the 1970s, perms were synonymous with volume, style, and sophistication.

But achieving that perfect bounce came at a cost—harsh chemicals, damage, and an overwhelming smell that lingered for days. Today, with an emphasis on natural hair health, most people have ditched chemical perms in favor of heat-free styling methods, nourishing treatments, and embracing their natural hair texture.

While curls are still beloved, the idea of subjecting hair to intense processing just for the sake of fashion feels outdated and unnecessary.

2. Super Thin Eyebrows

Remember when razor-thin eyebrows were considered the epitome of elegance? Throughout the 1920s, 1970s, and late 1990s, plucking eyebrows into barely-there arches was the norm, thanks to celebrities and beauty icons leading the trend.

Fast forward to today, and fuller, more natural brows are in style. People are now microblading, tinting, and using growth serums to restore what years of over-plucking took away. The shift toward bold, well-shaped brows reflects a broader beauty movement—embracing natural features rather than forcing them to conform to trends.

3. Sunbed Tanning

Once upon a time, the tanner, the better was the beauty motto. Whether it was sunbathing for hours or using tanning beds, achieving a bronzed glow was seen as a status symbol, signaling a healthy and active lifestyle.

However, as we’ve learned more about UV damage, premature aging, and skin cancer risks, the obsession with deep tans has lost its appeal. Today, sunscreen and skin protection are major priorities, and self-tanners have replaced dangerous sunbathing sessions.

The modern standard? Healthy, well-cared-for skin—no matter its natural shade.

4. Heavy Foundation

Decades ago, a perfectly matte, poreless face was the ultimate beauty goal. Women layered on thick foundations and powders, creating an airbrushed, flawless look that often felt like a mask.

Now, beauty trends lean toward lightweight, skin-like coverage. Instead of hiding everything under cakey layers, modern makeup focuses on hydration, natural finishes, and glowing complexions. With advancements in skincare, people also prioritize healthy skin over simply covering it up.

The shift? Enhancing rather than erasing natural beauty.

5. Gender-Specific Fragrances

For decades, floral and powdery scents were reserved for women, while woody, musky colognes were labeled as strictly for men. This rigid divide in perfume marketing made it seem like choosing a scent had to align with traditional gender norms.

Thankfully, times have changed. The rise of unisex and gender-neutral fragrances has allowed people to choose scents based on personal preference rather than outdated expectations. Today, it’s all about what smells good to you—regardless of labels.

6. Matching Lipstick and Nail Polish

There was a time when coordinating lipstick and nail polish was a sign of effortless elegance. The idea of wearing red lipstick with mismatched nails would have been considered a fashion sin.

Now? The beauty industry encourages mixing colors, textures, and styles. Some people opt for boldly contrasting shades, while others go for nail art, ombré lips, or unexpected combinations. The rigid rule of matchy-matchy beauty has been replaced with self-expression and experimentation.

7. Over-Processed Hair

Bleaching, teasing, frying with curling irons—the more processed, the better used to be the philosophy of many past beauty eras. In the 1950s and 1980s, women went to great lengths to achieve the perfect coif, beehive, or big hairdo, even if it meant sacrificing hair health.

Nowadays, people are more aware of damage and long-term hair health. Instead of stripping and processing hair beyond recognition, modern beauty trends favor deep conditioning, low-maintenance hairstyles, and embracing natural textures.

Over-processing is out—healthy, nourished locks are in.

8. Pastel Makeup

In the 1980s, pastel eyeshadows, blushes, and lipsticks dominated beauty trends. Soft pinks, frosty blues, and lilacs were everywhere, giving off a sweet, doll-like appearance.

While pastel shades still exist, they’re now used in a more modern, balanced way. Instead of frosty lavender eyeshadow paired with bright pink blush and pastel lipstick, today’s makeup looks focus on strategic pops of color and a variety of finishes.

The result? A more sophisticated take on color that flatters rather than overwhelms.

9. Extreme Dieting for Beauty

From low-calorie fad diets to dangerous weight-loss pills, the beauty industry once pushed unrealistic body ideals at any cost. For decades, women were expected to be thin at all times, leading to harmful eating habits and body image issues.

Today, the focus has shifted toward health and body positivity. While fitness and wellness are still important, there is a greater emphasis on strength, confidence, and feeling good in your own skin—regardless of size.

10. The Hourglass Figure Obsession

The 1950s pin-up era glorified the hourglass figure, leading many women to squeeze into corsets, girdles, and shapewear to achieve that perfect waist-to-hip ratio. The message? Curves were good—but only if they were in the “right” places.

Today, beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. Social media and fashion brands are celebrating body diversity, with a wider range of body types being represented and embraced. Instead of forcing one single “ideal,” modern beauty standards encourage people to love their natural proportions.

11. Perfectly Polished Nails

In past decades, a flawless manicure was considered a sign of sophistication. Women would visit nail salons religiously, ensuring that their polish never chipped.

Now, beauty trends embrace imperfection and individuality. While manicures are still popular, many people skip polish altogether, experiment with bold designs, or even rock short, unpolished nails.

The expectation to maintain “perfect” nails 24/7 has been replaced with a more relaxed, low-maintenance approach to beauty.