Beauty mark
A beauty mark or beauty spot is a euphemism for a type of dark facial mole, so named because such birthmarks are sometimes considered an attractive feature.[1] Medically, such "beauty marks" are generally melanocytic nevus, more specifically the compound variant. Moles of this type may also be located elsewhere on the body, and may also be considered beauty marks if located on the shoulder, neck or breast.
False beauty marks are sometimes applied to the face as a form of make-up. Beauty marks were particularly highly regarded during the eighteenth century and creating false ones became common, often in fanciful shapes such as hearts or stars. They could be purchased as silk or velvet patches known as "mouches" (flies).
In the twentieth century Marilyn Monroe's beauty mark generated a new vogue. Musician Prince is iconic for several of his beauty marks. Fashion model Cindy Crawford's prominent mole helped revive the fashion.[2] The Monroe piercing has gained popularity in recent years as a flexible way of approximating a beauty mark.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- ^ Ariel, Irving M. (1981). A Historical Introduction: Is the beauty mark a mark of beauty or a potentially dangerous cancer? Malignant Melanoma, Appleton-Century-Crofts, ISBN 9780838561140
- ^ White, Jackie (April 30, 1995). Behind the glamour lurks an ugly, dirty business. Kansas City Star
