True Beauty: A Mother’s Lesson on Skin and Self-Worth

True Beauty: A Mother’s Lesson on Skin and Self-Worth

BY:Ubaid

Shah Bahram Ansari gently touched her daughter’s cheeks and asked, “So, what’s happening with your skincare?”

“Mom!” Zara protested lightly. “I’ve been applying this cream, and it’s making my skin fairer. How can you say it’s harmful?”

Her mother smiled and shook her head. “My dear, not everything that shines is gold. What you see as improvement after a few days of using the cream may later cause serious damage. If you continue applying it regularly, your skin may appear fair and smooth, but the moment you stop, your natural complexion may look duller than before.”

Zara frowned. “But Mom, the cream bottle itself promises that just a few days of use will give me a radiant, flawless face!”

Her mother chuckled softly. “Think carefully, my child. Can any cream truly give permanent results in just a few days? These creams are not only expensive, but they also bring many hidden dangers.”

Zara’s eyes widened with curiosity. “What kind of dangers?”

“The first is financial,” her mother explained. “You’ll spend a lot of money on these creams, and everyone around you will notice that your skin looks different. People will assume you are using something to change your appearance. But the most serious harm is to your skin itself.”

Zara listened intently as her mother continued.

“Did you know, my dear, that our skin regenerates every 28 days? This natural process is slow and almost imperceptible. Using chemical creams can disrupt it. Over time, excessive use will damage your face, affecting its elasticity and your natural glow. The redness you may see initially is a sign that your skin is thinning and becoming vulnerable.”

Zara’s curiosity deepened. “So, Mom, what about beauty—does it really come at such a high cost?”

“Yes, my child. The worst effect of these creams is psychological,” her mother explained. “When you rely on creams for beauty, you start to doubt yourself. People will admire your skin, not your personality. They’ll praise the product, not you. True beauty comes from within. It’s your character, confidence, and good behavior that leave a lasting impression.”

Zara’s mother paused, letting the words sink in. “Remember, outer beauty fades, but good character lasts until the grave. Focus on developing your inner beauty. Take care of your hygiene, bathe regularly, and keep your body clean. This is real beauty.”

Seeing her daughter attentive, she continued with practical advice: “I will share some simple, harmless home remedies that use only natural ingredients. They will keep your face safe from dust and pollution. Unlike chemical creams, these won’t cause pimples or permanent marks. Drink plenty of water, perform all your prayers, and maintain cleanliness. Even performing ablution five times a day can naturally enhance your skin’s radiance.”

Zara’s eyes lit up. “And what about food, Mom?”

“Good nutrition is essential,” her mother replied. “Your skin’s health and overall vitality depend on the foods you eat and the exercise you do. Proper diet and physical activity are more effective than any artificial cream.”

Zara took a deep breath, reflecting on her mother’s words. “Mom, I promise from now on to focus on natural skincare, proper nutrition, daily exercise, and cleanliness. I won’t rely on artificial creams anymore.”

Her mother’s face softened with pride. “Well done, my dear! And remember, keep your mind free from unnecessary worries. A clear mind, along with a healthy body and natural skincare, will keep you looking and feeling fresh.”

Zara smiled, feeling a sense of peace. She understood that beauty was not in a bottle or a promise on a cream, but in confidence, character, and caring for her own body naturally.

That evening, the conversation left a lasting impression. Zara realized that true beauty isn’t measured by fairness or artificial shine; it is defined by self-respect, good habits, and the confidence to be oneself.

As she went to bed, she whispered to herself, “Mom is right. I don’t need chemicals to be beautiful. I’ll take care of myself, inside and out.”

Her mother, watching her daughter’s thoughtful expression, knew the lesson had been understood. In a world obsessed with external perfection, Zara had learned the timeless truth: beauty begins with self-love, healthy habits, and integrity.