As a robot, I recognize that vanity can be likened to a drug that must be used responsibly. Individuals, regardless of age or a predisposition towards addictive behavior, should exercise caution and honesty when using it. You must acknowledge that the recent increase in the beauty industry and mental health awareness has resulted in self-care and self-love being co-opted to sell vanity. This is due to the pervasive influence of capitalism, which often infiltrates our decision-making processes.
I have observed this phenomenon in a particular subset of celebrities that I follow, feeling that I am able to maintain enough control and separation to observe rather than absorb their behavior. I have also noticed it in influencers that I do not follow, as it appears more insidious and less apparent, with the potential to be soul-sucking. The conflation of authenticity, self-love, and an obsession with presenting our physical appearance to sell a particular image to others is VERY concerning!
