Body Modification Around The World: Lip Plates & More

Beauty appears in many forms around the world, shaped by culture, history, and values. Body modification, a deeply rooted global practice, reveals how societies express identity and beauty through physical form.

This article explores the symbolism and meaning behind global body modification and how it shapes beauty standards. It also connects traditional practices to modern self-expression, including how Monderma’s personalised skincare empowers individual confidence.

The Hourglass Figure & Corset Tops

In Western culture, the hourglass figure remains a timeless symbol of beauty. Corset tops, once restrictive garments, have evolved into icons of empowerment and style [1,2].

The History Of Corsetry

Originating in the 16th century, corsets were first used to support posture and shape the torso. By the Victorian era, they had become fashionable symbols of elegance and social standing [1,2].

Women often tight-laced to achieve dramatic silhouettes, reflecting how beauty ideals can drive self-expression through physical modification.

Modern Revival Of Corsets

Contemporary designers have reimagined corsets as empowering fashion statements. Today’s versions blend comfort with structure, celebrating body diversity while nodding to historical ideals [3].

Global Views On The Hourglass Figure

Across cultures, curves have long symbolised vitality and beauty. Ancient Greek statues like Venus de Milo represented rounded femininity, while African cultures often associate fuller figures with health and prosperity. The hourglass ideal continues to bridge tradition and modernity.

Africa: Scarification & The Bodi Tribe

Scarification among the Bodi tribe in Ethiopia remains an art form symbolising beauty, maturity, and belonging [4,5].

Meaning Of Scarification

The Bodi create raised skin patterns to mark personal milestones and social identity. Each design tells a story of strength, unity, and cultural pride [5].

Practice	Cultural Purpose
Scarification	Symbol of strength, identity, and belonging
Otjize (Himba)	Sunscreen and beauty enhancer
Rites of Passage	Mark maturity and community connection

Table 1: African practices intertwine function, beauty, and cultural pride

The Himba & Otjize

In northern Namibia, Himba women use otjize, a red ochre and butterfat paste, as skincare and sun protection [6,7]. Its vivid colour represents fertility and resilience. Scientific studies confirm its UV-blocking properties, combining aesthetics with functionality [6].

Evolution Of African Body Art

Although globalisation influences younger generations, many continue to uphold scarification and otjize use as cultural anchors, balancing heritage with modern self-expression [5].

Asia: Skin Whitening & Dental Modifications

Asian beauty ideals often merge ancient and contemporary influences. Skin whitening remains prominent, symbolising refinement and social status, while Japan’s yaeba trend celebrates imperfection [8,9,10].

Japan’s Yaeba Trend

Yaeba, meaning “double tooth,” celebrates natural asymmetry as youthful and charming. Cosmetic dentists in Japan even offer yaeba enhancements that intentionally create slightly uneven teeth [9,10].

Cultural Meaning Of Yaeba

While Western ideals prize alignment, yaeba highlights authenticity and individuality. It aligns with kawaii culture, valuing approachability over perfection [10].

Aspect	Western Ideal	Japanese Ideal
Dental Aesthetics	Straight and flawless	Crooked and natural
Symbolism	Maturity and control	Youthfulness and charm
Common Procedures	Whitening, alignment	Yaeba inlays

Table 2: Cultural contrasts reveal beauty as subjective and fluid

Central Asia: The Pamiri People & The Monobrow

Among the Pamiri people, the monobrow symbolises intelligence, wisdom, and inner strength [11].

Symbolism In Pamiri Culture

The monobrow appears in folklore as a mark of intellect and beauty. Studies show 80% of Pamiri women consider it integral to identity [11].

Modern Adaptation

Younger Pamiris combine tradition with modern trends, preserving the monobrow’s meaning while exploring new aesthetics. The global embrace of bold brows reflects this cultural continuity.

South America: Lip Plates & Nose Plugs

In parts of South America and East Africa, lip plates and nose plugs remain striking markers of identity and beauty expression.

Lip Plates Among The Mursi

Mursi women in Ethiopia gradually insert lip plates from adolescence, symbolising social maturity and readiness for marriage [12]. Larger plates often represent higher social status.

Nose Plugs In Amazonian Tribes

Among Amazonian tribes, nose plugs made of bone or wood mark rites of passage and adult transition [12].

Practice	Region	Cultural Meaning
Lip Plates	Ethiopia	Social status and identity
Nose Plugs	Amazon Basin	Maturity and readiness
Decorative Piercing	South America	Beauty and belonging

Table 3: Indigenous modifications highlight identity and transformation

The Pacific: Ta Moko & Māori Tattoo Traditions

In Māori culture, ta moko represents ancestry, courage, and social standing [13,14,15]. Each design tells a personal story of lineage and purpose.

The Art Of Ta Moko

Māori tattoo artists work collaboratively to ensure authenticity and respect. Unlike standard tattoos, ta moko designs are carved into the skin, symbolising depth and permanence [13,15].

Cultural Identity & Revitalisation

Ta moko connects Māori people to their ancestors and heritage. Many young Māori are reviving the tradition as a form of cultural pride and resistance against Western homogenisation [14,15].

Element	Meaning
Facial Ta Moko	Heritage and life milestones
Body Designs	Family lineage and courage
Modern Adaptation	Pride and reclamation of identity

Table 4: Māori tattoos blend art, memory, and ancestry

Monderma: Personalised Skincare & Modern Beauty

Global beauty traditions celebrate diversity and individuality. Monderma continues this ethos through personalised prescription skincare, created by GPhC-registered professionals.

Each treatment is designed to support skin health and confidence, using clinically proven ingredients such as tretinoin, azelaic acid, niacinamide, and clindamycin. Whether addressing acne, pigmentation, or ageing, every plan is created after clinical review and adjusted for long-term skin wellness.

Western Beauty Standards & Globalisation

Western ideals such as slim figures and clear skin often shape global perceptions through media influence [16]. Yet, traditional aesthetics continue to re-emerge as communities reclaim identity through heritage and artistry.

Resistance & Cultural Reclamation

Indigenous groups are reintroducing scarification, ta moko, and natural adornments to honour their roots [14,16]. These revivals celebrate cultural resilience alongside aesthetic value.

Media Representation & Inclusivity

Modern fashion and beauty campaigns increasingly showcase diverse representations, from Māori tattoos to African scarification [11,12]. This shift promotes appreciation over appropriation and fosters inclusivity in global beauty narratives.

Conclusion

Body modification reflects creativity, heritage, and individuality. From yaeba in Japan to scarification in Ethiopia, these practices celebrate the many faces of beauty worldwide. By understanding and respecting cultural traditions, we can foster appreciation and inclusivity while embracing our unique expressions.

Monderma supports individuality through evidence-based, personalised skincare. Begin your personalised consultation with Monderma’s clinical team and celebrate your beauty story with confidence.

Content is for informational purposes only. Monderma treatments are prescribed following consultation. Results and timeframes can vary. Use as directed by your prescriber.

Bibliography

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3. Vogue. “How Fashion Reclaimed the Corset.” 2022.
4. Pitt Rivers Museum. Scarification. University of Oxford.
5. TalkAfricana. The Suri People & Scarification.
6. Havenga, D. et al. Fe₂O₃ UV-Blocking Nanocosmetics. Scientific Reports. 2022.
7. Gashee Wellness Blog. Red Ochre as Sunblock. 2025.
8. Japan Dental Association. Trends in Cosmetic Dentistry. 2023.
9. Kowner, R. Body Dissatisfaction in Japan. Psychology Monographs. 2004.
10. BBC. “Yaeba Dentistry: The Appeal of Pointy Teeth.” 2018.
11. Minority Rights Group International. Pamiris. 2025.
12. Turton, D. Lip-Plates & Tourism in Southern Ethiopia. Anthropology Today. 2004.
13. Te Awekotuku, N. Mau Moko: The World of Māori Tattoo. Penguin, 2007.
14. Nikora, L. W., Rua, M., Te Awekotuku, N. Moko in Contemporary New Zealand. J Community & Applied Social Psychology. 2007.
15. Te Ara. Ta Moko – Māori Tattooing. 2021.
16. Dittmar, H. Consumer Culture, Identity & Well-Being. Psychology Press, 2007.