The idea that ‘beauty changes all the time’ is absurd. People get that impression since pop culture icons cycle through the mass media frequently, sometimes in a matter of months. The trouble is, pop culture has little to do with real life. There are universal traits of beauty which transcend time and culture. A supple body, symmetrical features, clear skin, bright eyes, glossy hair, good teeth, and high energy levels are considered attractive everywhere. In a word, health is beautiful. Everything else is perennial at best.

Yes, I agree that men also do silly things in a misguided attempt to be more appealing. Flaunting the symbols of power, wealth and status is more common amongst men than drastic appearance modifications. It's just as ridiculous, though.

Men who hate makeup? It depends. Someone who is wearing enough makeup to actually soil my clothes or smear all over my face would probably look like a circus clown. Makeup is supposed to accentuate a woman’s features, not warp them. It is definitely a ‘less is more’ type of thing in my humble opinion. The same goes for perfume, jewelry, and a host of other trinkets used to enhance appearance. Of course, this is a matter of personal taste and wildly off topic.

On a closing note, I agree that the breast job is definitely an American phenomenon. It is common in Southern California, particularly with the vulgar new money crowd. They are so insecure of their new found status, they have to flaunt their wealth ostentatiously with SUVs, breast jobs, and shoddy designer clothing. As the old saying goes, money can’t buy class….