"The Beauty Myth," a term popularized by author Naomi Wolf in her 1990 book, refers to the societal pressure on women to conform to unrealistic standards of beauty. This concept suggests that as women gain more power and independence, the beauty standards imposed on them become more stringent, creating a paradox where their worth is often measured by their appearance. The myth perpetuates the idea that beauty is essential for success and happiness, leading to negative consequences such as low self-esteem and body image issues. It highlights how media, culture, and consumerism contribute to these unrealistic ideals, affecting women's lives and choices in various ways.