35 Instagram VS. Reality Pics That Show How Out Of Touch With Reality Some People Are

For one reason or another, many people feel the need toedit their picturesbefore uploading them online. And when they do, they might get carried away with their tools, usually resulting in pics that are worse than the original.

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Man posing in gym mirror, wearing black tank top, white pants; strong example of Photoshop airbrush.

Person posing in front of a mirror with stylized enhancements, showcasing dramatic Photoshop airbrush effects.

Woman in high-waisted pants and a white crop top standing on a street, talking on the phone, highlighting Photoshop airbrush effects.

Unfortunately, many people don’t feel comfortable in their own skin. Somestudies estimatethat as much as 20% to 40% of women are dissatisfied with their bodies, as are 10% to 30% of men.

For those who are not that fond of their looks, some moments or situations can be particularly uncomfortable.An Ipsospoll found that dissatisfaction regarding people’s bodies was most prevalent when they were looking in the mirror, spending time at the beach in a bathing suit, or shopping for clothes, respectively.

Three people taking a selfie with bright smiles, showcasing heavy airbrush editing in a casual setting.

Two women in a modern kitchen, one holding champagne, with exaggerated airbrushed features, celebrating with confetti.

According to the aforementioned Ipsos poll, for Americans, a “perfect” body is one that is athletic, whether it’s a man or a woman. Second on the list, though, is the so-called “dad bod,” showing that not everyone is obsessed with abs and flat stomachs.

Unsurprisingly, not having a“perfect” body—which does not really exist—tends to push quite a few people to edit their pictures.

Side-by-side images showing Photoshop airbrush effect vs reality with two people wearing similar outfits and hats indoors.

Two photos showing heavy Photoshop airbrush edits on a person’s body.

Person in an exaggerated cosplay outfit, showcasing unrealistic body proportions, highlighting extreme Photoshop airbrush effects.

People posing with heavy Photoshop airbrush, showing exaggerated features in various settings.

People showing extreme Photoshop airbrush effects, creating exaggerated facial features in contrasting images.

Over-airbrushed selfie with two people showing unrealistic features, highlighting extreme Photoshop use.

Couple at a nightclub, under dramatic lighting, showcasing airbrushed appearance for a social media post.

Side-by-side comparison of a woman highlighting Photoshop airbrush effects on Instagram vs. reality.

Man and woman posing in a mirror selfie, showcasing exaggerated abs, highlighting Photoshop airbrush techniques.

The expert continued to note that it’s important to be kind to yourself. “Stop any judgmental, self-critical talk. Embrace an attitude of self-love and acceptance,” Warren said.

Lastly, she emphasized the importance of media literacy. “Learn about appearance-related commentary in the media and how it’s intended to get us to buy products. Become a critically thinking consumer of appearance-related messages in the media.”

Person in a red bikini top and denim shorts, posing by flowers, showing a heavily edited reality via Photoshop airbrush.

Two images showing a woman edited with airbrush effects, highlighting contrast between Instagram and reality.

Side-by-side images showing a heavily edited Instagram look versus a natural reality appearance.

Nowadays, media literacy is a crucial skill to have for people of all ages. But it might be especially important for young individuals, whose views of the world—and themselves—are still forming. And it comes as no surprise that, with the amount of time they often spend on social media, it tends to significantly influence their views, as well as their feelings.

Person with exaggerated airbrush effects on face, creating a surreal appearance, wearing an orange hijab.

Comparison of two women’s appearances highlighting Photoshop airbrush effects with dramatic differences.

Insta vs. reality of a man with pets; photoshopped holiday setting versus casual interview scene.

With so many pictures online being edited—some to make people in them look “perfect”—it’s not surprising that other internet users, too, decide to brush up on their pics. But, as you can see on this list, some netizens might take it one step too far.

Couple posing in front of a large Christmas tree, showcasing overdone Photoshop airbrush effects.

Person outdoors wearing black swimwear, showcasing a dramatic pose.

Photoshop airbrush comparison: left shows an edited image with heavy makeup, right displays a natural look.

Two side-by-side images of a woman showcasing a stark contrast between Photoshop airbrush effects and reality.

Mirror selfie showing a woman in white shorts and black top, with text overlay about body appearance.

Person in a beige dress posing in front of a closet, highlighted as an example of Photoshop airbrush effects.