Don't we want it all. The external bar of satisfaction seems to be largely set by our visual culture. Is the bar height a free choice or is there a guiding invisible hand? This seems obvious at first glance. But just as we know that a lot of fast food is not good for you, people are still addicted to it against their better judgment. Can we resist the desire to count? Acceptance or competition – and who decides that anyway? If it is medically and technically possible, is it then permitted for instant welfare gain? Or is changing our behavior better than a quick fix? Even if we think injected lips are beautiful now, will we still be just as enthusiastic in ten years' time? On second thought, it might be better to keep that fad to your rubber duck. It prevents a 'own fault, fat lip' dip.

With well-known Rotterdammers of various kinds, I consider other perspectives on being beautiful. Spoiler alert: there is still room for this concept. Fortunately. This BLOG SERIES deals with beauty, health and lifestyle dilemmas. Where is a boundary, or not. It can be general contemplation, but certainly also have a personal charge. About life events and difficult periods in life. The skin is simply connected to our innermost being. It really doesn't always have to be heavy, there may also be a joke. Even gladly. We have an open conversation where this theme can be philosophized freely and where a socially critical voice is welcome.

In my practice I notice that people increasingly expect a beauty menu. The you-ask-we-deliver treatment is becoming more popular. Of course, as a medical professional I like to make someone's skin healthier, stronger and lovingly bring out their personal beauty. But there is also a potential point of friction here. More is not always better. It goes without saying that I want to reflect on this in more detail with my clients, in the context of where the beauty industry is moving towards. These SKINTALKS can play an important emancipatory role in this. And finally, not unimportant: enjoy reading!