Human physical appearance

File:Guest without glasses.jpg

File:PublicAppearanceWithGlasses.jpg

-->|thumb|right]]

About WikiMD: The article, Human physical appearance, is part of WikiMD.
WikiMD is a free medical encyclopedia and wellnesspedia moderated by medical professionals.

File:Human physical appearance.jpg

A diverse group of people showing a range of physical appearances

Human physical appearance refers to the outward phenotype or look of human beings. There are infinite variations in human physical appearance, though society reduces the variability to distinct categories. The physical appearance of humans, in particular those attributes which are regarded as important for physical attractiveness, are believed by anthropologists to significantly affect the development of personality and social relations.

Factors affecting physical appearance

Human physical appearance is influenced by several factors, including:

• Genetics: The genetic makeup of an individual plays a significant role in determining their physical appearance. Traits such as skin color, eye color, hair color, and height are inherited from one's parents.
• Age: As people age, their physical appearance changes. This includes changes in skin texture, hair color, and body composition.
• Health: An individual's health can greatly affect their physical appearance. Conditions such as obesity, malnutrition, and disease can alter one's appearance.
• Lifestyle: Factors such as diet, exercise, and sleep patterns can influence physical appearance. For example, regular exercise can improve muscle tone and skin health.
• Environment: Environmental factors, including sun exposure, pollution, and climate, can impact physical appearance. For instance, prolonged sun exposure can lead to skin damage and premature aging.

Common physical traits

Some common physical traits that vary among humans include:

• Skin color: Ranges from very light to very dark, influenced by the amount of melanin in the skin.
• Hair color: Includes a variety of shades such as black, brown, blonde, red, and gray.
• Eye color: Common colors include brown, blue, green, and hazel.
• Body shape: Varies widely among individuals, influenced by genetics, diet, and exercise.
• Facial features: Includes the shape and size of the nose, mouth, eyes, and ears.

Cultural perceptions

Cultural perceptions of physical appearance can vary significantly. In some cultures, certain physical traits are highly valued and considered attractive, while in others, different traits may be preferred. These perceptions can influence social interactions, self-esteem, and even opportunities in areas such as employment and relationships.

See also

• Human body
• Human skin color
• Human height
• Human hair color
• Physical attractiveness
• Anthropology