A group of experts has called for major English dictionary publishers to revise outdated definitions of beauty, arguing that restrictive ideals negatively impact mental health, self-perception, and diversity.
The discussion took place at a cross-industry roundtable hosted by Coty, one of the world’s largest beauty companies, as part of its ongoing #UndefineBeauty campaign. The initiative, launched in 2023, seeks to challenge traditional beauty standards and push for more inclusive definitions in widely used dictionaries.
The panel included experts from neuroscience, art, social media, sociology, and mental health, who collectively argued that beauty is a learned concept rather than an evolutionary one.
“There is no valid single standard of beauty; the way we assess beauty is acquired, rather than evolutionary,” said Professor John-Dylan Haynes, a brain scientist and psychologist at Charité Medical University in Berlin.
Coty CEO Sue Nabi reinforced the company’s commitment to promoting a more inclusive vision of beauty:
“As a beauty company, we recognise our responsibility to reflect diversity. Our latest roundtable discussion underscores our resolve to create beauty for everyone. Our goal is to help each person feel their most beautiful self.”
Calls for Change in Dictionary Definitions
At the centre of the #UndefineBeauty campaign is a demand for major English dictionaries to update their definition of beauty. One commonly cited example—“she was considered a great beauty in her youth”—has been criticised for reinforcing narrow and age-restrictive ideals.
Coty first issued an open letter to dictionary publishers in 2023, urging them to reflect modern, inclusive definitions of beauty. However, the company says it has received no response to date.
Now, Coty is renewing its call for change, inviting the public to support the movement by signing a petition on Change.org.
The Power of Collective Action
The beauty industry has faced increasing scrutiny over its role in shaping societal beauty standards. With growing awareness of mental health and self-esteem issues linked to restrictive ideals, campaigns like #UndefineBeauty aim to challenge traditional norms and encourage a broader representation of beauty.
“By signing this petition, people can take a stand against outdated beauty definitions and contribute to a more inclusive future,” Coty said in a statement.
The petition is now open for signatures, and Coty is urging individuals, organisations, and industry leaders to support the movement.
For more information and to sign the petition, visit coty.com/undefine-beauty.
