Humans have always been captivated by beauty, and for almost as long, we’ve been marketed products and new technologies to help us achieve certain beauty standards. Elise Hu is a journalist and the author of “Flawless: Lessons in looks and culture from the K-beauty industry.” In this episode, she shares the fascinating insights she’s learned from years of studying the $10 billion K-beauty industry and the cutting-edge skincare, niche makeup products, and technology that promise to optimize our appearance. Elise and Chris talk about the real stakes of placing a premium on our looks, why a more inclusive version of “beauty” is worth pursuing, and how we can both enjoy and push back against the very human desire to feel beautiful. For the full text transcript, visit go.ted.com/BHTranscripts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Elise Hu, an award-winning journalist and host of TED Talks Daily, as she delves into the secrets of crafting an exceptional TED Talk. She discusses how to adapt complex ideas for a concise delivery and shares tips on engaging audiences effectively. Elise emphasizes the importance of observation, vulnerability, and authenticity in storytelling. She also reflects on the pressures of public speaking and draws parallels between communication and empathy, all while sharing her passion for storytelling, especially as seen through the lens of her new book.

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Elise Hu, a journalist and former correspondent in South Korea, discusses her book "Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital" in this podcast. The podcast covers topics such as the rise of South Korea's cosmetics industry, the influence of K-pop in the culture of lookism, the growth of cosmetic surgery in South Korea, and the globalization and soft power of South Korea's beauty industry. Hu also shares insights on skincare routines and upcoming movie projects.