The Colgate Smile Study 2023 found that a resounding 92 per cent of Singaporeans would like the ability to smile more freely. The main reason why they say they cannot smile freely is because of the fear of being judged. These findings are consistent across the region where approximately 9 in 10 people in Asia Pacific wish they could smile without reservations. Only 64 per cent of Singaporeans smile whenever they can, compared to the regional average of 74 per cent.

Yves Briantais, Executive Vice President, Marketing Asia-Pacific, Colgate-Palmolive said, "Smile Shame is especially prevalent in Asia Pacific and this must change. At Colgate, we are on a mission to free people from the constraints of Smile Shame to truly embrace their own unique smiles. We believe brands have the power to challenge unrealistic beauty standards and promote authenticity. This World Smile Day®, Colgate is leading the charge by celebrating all smiles."

79 per cent of Singaporeans believe that brands should have a role to play in tackling the issue of Smile Shame, according to the Colgate Smile Study 2023.

This World Smile Day®, Colgate is celebrating all smiles by adapting its iconic logo to represent the many different and beautiful smiles that surround us daily. Colgate is also collaborating with influencers across the region to further champion this cause including well-known actress and TV personality Xixi Lim^[2] from Singapore who has experienced Smile Shame because of a chip on her front tooth but is now embracing her smile which perfectly reflects her unique self.

Additionally, as part of #FreeYourSmile, Colgate is introducing a Smile Generator AI tool at colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile^[3], encouraging everyone to create their personalised Colgate smile on TikTok and Instagram, and spread the message to celebrate all smiles. Digital Out of Home content in areas such as Ion Orchard, CIMB Plaza, Raffles Place, Raffles City and One Raffles Place will further encourage more people to join the movement.

Advocating for the Benefits of Smiling for Singaporeans

Singaporeans indicate that they generally feel relaxed, comfortable and confident when they smile freely. In fact, scientific research supports the idea that smiling positively impacts mental health, acting as natural antidepressants and pain relievers^[1]. Smiling is also good for the heart, aiding in lowering blood pressure and expediting recovery after stressful events^[2].

A key health benefit of smiling includes strengthening the immune system by increasing white blood cell counts, providing protection against infections^[3]. Socially, smiling is a powerful tool to foster bonds and building trust by making a lasting positive impression on others^[4].

Standing against Smile Shame

Smile Shame may not be a familiar term to many. It encapsulates the feelings of embarrassment, self-consciousness, or insecurity regarding one's smile.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 revealed that 54 per cent of Singaporeans can relate to the concept of Smile Shame, with two in five having personally experienced it. 36 per cent of Singaporeans have been made to feel bad about their smile because of expectations of perfect teeth on social media, and because they've also witnessed family and friends commenting about others' teeth.

Ivan Chong, General Manager (Singapore), Colgate-Palmolive, "While Smile Shame continues to be a challenge here in Singapore, it is heartening to note that more than four in five Singaporeans feel that it is safe to openly discuss Smile Shame and its effects on personal insecurities. Colgate's #FreeYourSmile campaign is the first step we are taking to combat Smile Shame, empowering everyone to smile more freely and confidently."

79 per cent of Singaporeans feel that it is safe to talk about Smile Shame, a sentiment primarily driven by the belief that society is becoming more open and accepting of transparent dialogue discussing personal insecurities.

Celebrating the Diversity of Smiles

Smile Shame is associated with different attributes across markets, reflecting diverse perceptions of what makes a beautiful smile. In Singapore, Smile Shame is typically associated with colour of teeth and whether their smile appears fake.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 also revealed that the key factor that makes Singaporeans worry about their smile is their own feeling of self-doubt. This was followed by concerns about comments from others including family, friends, and even strangers.

#FreeYourSmile is the first step in Colgate's mission to celebrate all smiles, inspire individuals to express themselves freely and proudly, and combat Smile Shame, with more initiatives in the pipeline.

Generate your own unique Colgate Smile today: colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile^[4]

Hashtag: #Colgate

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

References

1. ^{^} Media OutReach (www.media-outreach.com)
2. ^{^} Xixi Lim (www.instagram.com)
3. ^{^} colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile (www.yourcolgatesmile.com)
4. ^{^} colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile (www.yourcolgatesmile.com)