The term “natural beauty” has various definitions depending on who you ask.

For me, I have used the term “natural beauty” to reference a woman who is physically attractive without any effort.

I had a friend growing up who fit my definition. Amy Douglas could wear anything and look adorable.

She could climb out of the swimming pool with slicked back, wet hair and look pretty, and on those occasions when I would spend the night with her, when she woke up in the morning, she still looked cute.

I, on the other hand, had this crazy, curly hair that has never been reliable in any situation.

Of course, there are others through the years I have seen, met and known blessed with this quality I call “natural beauty.”

However, now there are means for one to enhance their looks with “procedures.”

I use the term “procedures” to include anything from the plethora of dermatological and cosmetic offerings to full out plastic surgery.

I do not fault nor judge anyone who, for whatever reason, decides to have a “procedure” done.

I, myself, have taken advantage of some of the lesser invasive “procedures” to fight the aging process and plan on continuing.

Obviously, the pocketbook will play a large roll in what I can or cannot do!

In thinking about how we can tweak, or, in some cases, downright change our looks, it occurred to me there were some similarities between cosmetic procedures and fake news.

Botox can soften and erase wrinkles, lip filler can provide a perfect pout and a facelift can shave years off your true age.

Like I said, while I don’t judge anyone who takes advantage of these types of “procedures,” they do alter our true and authentic appearance.

Fake news also alters the truth.

However, while fake news and “procedures” share some qualities, there is one glaring difference.

For those who choose to go “under the knife” or even just want to look refreshed by having a laser treatment, they will have done a little research on the doctors or cosmetologists who will perform the procedure. These professionals will also walk you through the process, addressing risks involved and answer any questions. 

Also, I would guess, like me, folks who are considering any type of procedure will get on the internet and Google as much information as they can find, as well as look for before and after images.

Unfortunately, fake news does not get nearly the scrutiny.

Things posted and shared seem to be taken as the gospel, when in fact it might just be gossip or plain lies.

With today’s technology, we can’t believe everything we read on social media, and with a presidential election in November, it is imperative for us to be diligent about fact-checking information.

My fake hair color does not harm anyone, but fake news will.

 

Terri Cowart Frazier is a staff writer for The Vicksburg Post. She can be reached at terri.frazier@vicksburgpost.com.