There are 21 countries in Latin America, but even more cultures within it that each embrace their own unique beauty rituals. While genetics determine the texture of one’s hair, the shape of their eyes or the tone of their skin, community values really shape the ways that beauty and culture collide in our everyday lives.
A 2016 study by Univision found that Latinas learn about beauty from their moms at a young age, with 66% saying they were told maintaining their appearance is important. That belief may be shared across Latin America, but specific practices vary from country to country.
We spoke to nine people with roots throughout Latin America about the cultural beauty tips they’ve learned from their mamis, papis and extended communities. Here’s what they say keeps their people looking good.
“People in my culture take their appearance very seriously,” Monica Veloz told HuffPost. ”When I go to the Dominican Republic, my entire family, their hair is DONE!”
Growing up in New York City, Veloz visited Dominican salons weekly, admiring the stylists’ commitment to beauty and thinking, “I want to look like this when I get older. I want to look fine every day.”
