Asia’s Ridiculous ‘Finger Trap’ Beauty Test Determines Whether You’re Pretty Or Ugly

Photos via Vocativ

It’s being called the “finger trap,” and it’s the latest Asian beauty trend swarming through social media. (And no, we’re not talking about those 10-cent gag toys that would turn your fingers blue by cutting off your circulation.) The concept is simple: Touch the side of your index finger to both the tip of your nose and your chin. If your lips don’t touch your finger, congratulations! You’re pretty! If they do, well, er … there’s always Photoshop?

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According to Refinery29, the trend originated with a Japanese meme. Chinese actress Xinyi Zhang—who’s stunning, by the way—tried it out and then lamented the fact that she “didn’t pass.” This prompted her legions of fans to take the test and post selfies showing their results. Now everyone from “ancient Chinese generals to K-Pop stars” has gotten in on the finger-trap action. The test, also known as the “Beauty and Ugliness Identification Method,” is one of biggest trending topics on Weibo, China’s version of Facebook. HelloGiggles called it “the new thigh gap.”

Some say the finger trap trend is just another reflection of Asia’s absurd beauty standards, while others, including Refinery29 fashion intern and Weibo user Venus Wong, brush it off as “a harmless fad.” Curious, I tried the test and failed. Sob. At least I’m not alone. Under this ridiculous measure, Angelina Jolie, Jessica Alba, Christina Hendricks and Victoria Beckham are also part of Club Ugly.

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