When it comes to self-love, the beauty industry is often blamed for preying on people’s insecurities – and sometimes creating them. Given that just 59% of American women say they’re comfortable with their own appearance, brands are campaigning to turn self-doubt into self-worth.

Beauty guru Julie Schott’s Starface pimple patches are leading the charge in the skin acceptance movement. Designed to cover up and heal spots, yet remain visible, these cute yellow stars are lighting up social media and tapping Gen Z’s desire to resist ‘perfect’ skin ideals.

While nearly half of women say they prefer to buy from companies that challenge gender stereotypes, branded feminism in the form of pink-washed products and #girlpower hashtags is often seen as insensitive and unimpressive. So, how can marketers empower women in an authentic way?

Predominantly found on TikTok, e-girls are redefining what it means to be a female gamer, tackling the prejudice this community faces with weird, self-aware, and ironic humor. How exactly did this subculture arise, and what can these girls teach brands about Gen Z’s favorite new social platform?