The Natural Beauty of Guangdong: Why Local Women Prefer a Makeup-Free Look
A recent topic trending on Weibo, "Why do most Guangdong girls prefer a natural, makeup-free look?" has sparked a heated discussion among netizens. In the Guangdong region, it is common for women to present themselves in a natural and unadorned manner, which begs the question: what are the underlying factors contributing to this phenomenon? To delve into this topic, it is essential to consider the interplay of various factors, including climate conditions, cultural traditions, and lifestyle habits.
4 June 2025
The Guangdong region, located in the subtropics, is characterized by high temperatures and humidity, making it challenging to maintain a flawless makeup look. As a result, many women in Guangdong opt for a minimalist approach to beauty, prioritizing comfort and practicality over elaborate makeup routines. The high temperature and humidity in Guangdong province make it challenging for makeup to last, and the humid weather can easily ruin a carefully applied complexion. The sweltering heat, with summer temperatures often exceeding 40°C, makes it difficult for makeup to stay in place, and the combination of sweat and humidity can cause makeup to smear or cake.
Furthermore, the cultural values in Guangdong emphasize the importance of inner qualities and abilities over external appearances. This mindset is reflected in the social norms, where people tend to focus on personal character and accomplishments rather than physical appearance. In this context, women in Guangdong are more likely to invest time and effort in self-improvement and personal development, rather than devoting excessive attention to their physical appearance. The phenomenon of Guangdong women often going out without makeup has broken traditional beauty conventions and challenged the social norm that "one must wear makeup to go out." This bold and confident spirit reflects the independence and self-assurance of women in the Guangdong region.
The economic and social environment in Guangdong also plays a significant role in shaping women's beauty habits. With a relatively lower cost of living compared to other major cities in China, women in Guangdong may be less inclined to spend a large amount of money on high-end beauty products. Instead, they may prefer to allocate their resources to more practical and essential aspects of their lives. Additionally, due to the region's climate, which is generally hot and humid, their skin condition is still relatively good, which reduces the need for makeup and skincare products. By choosing not to wear makeup, Guangdong women are able to save money and allocate their resources to other aspects of their lives.
The fast-paced lifestyle in Guangdong, particularly in the urban areas, demands a high level of efficiency and convenience. Women in Guangdong often have to balance work, family, and social responsibilities, leaving little time for elaborate beauty routines. As a result, many opt for simple and quick beauty solutions, such as a light, natural makeup look or a focus on skincare rather than heavy makeup. This approach not only saves time but also reflects the region's emphasis on efficiency and practicality. The fact that Guangdong women are willing to challenge traditional beauty standards and forge their own path is a sign of the region's growing cosmopolitanism and diversity.
It is essential to note that this phenomenon is not absolute and may vary across different age groups, occupations, and individual preferences. While some women in Guangdong may still choose to wear makeup for special occasions or as a form of self-expression, others may prefer to maintain a natural look as a matter of personal preference. Ultimately, the phenomenon of Guangdong women going out without makeup is a celebration of individuality and self-expression, and a reminder that beauty comes in many forms, both inside and out. As society continues to evolve and beauty standards shift, it will be interesting to observe how women in Guangdong adapt and redefine their approach to beauty and self-presentation.






