What really is the definition of beauty? Is it as simple as perfect bone structure, flawless skin or is it all about poise, intelligence and grooming? To find out the answers and investigate how the definition changes depending on culture and custom, NIVEA embarked on its biggest-ever survey in its 126-year history, asking thousands of women around the world to define the epitome of beauty and uncovering some unexpected results.

Brazil

Beauty Buzzwords: Self-assurance, youth and femininity.

• Brazilian women take pride in their appearance and say it's "vital" to be good-looking.
  Even very young women visit salons as a normal part of their beauty routine for leg and bikini waxes, body peels and regular pedicures and manicures.
  Both nail polish and fragrance are worn on an everyday basis, not just for special occasions.

US

Beauty Buzzwords: Attractiveness, health and a well-groomed appearance.

• Youth, naturalness and being sporty are all desirable qualities.
  There are more cosmetic procedures carried out in the US than anywhere else in the world.
  Applying anti-ageing products is not an opportunity to treat their skin to something good - it's essential.
  Beauty care is a lifelong task that imposes very high standards.

France

Beauty Buzzwords: Charisma, sensuality and simplicity.

• Beauty is about enhancing one's allure and charm.
  The French take a playful approach to femininity and feel that it's important to be noticed, even as one gets older.
  Elegance, extravagance and colour are celebrated instead of sticking to tried and tested neutrals.

Russia

Beauty Buzzwords: Success, youth, confidence and style.

• Young girls are taught from an early age how to express their sense of style and skill with make-up, so they can show off their beautiful side.
  Outer beauty rates as highly as it does for their Brazilian sisters. It's considered indispensable for success and social standing in life and, as such, an investment, according to the survey.
  Russian women are very interested in the latest and greatest that the beauty world has to offer, but they also like to possess youth, elegance, femininity, success and confidence.

China

Beauty Buzzwords: Discretion and elegance.

• Chinese women believe 1.6 metres is the "perfect" height.
  Conforming to social standards is a highly regarded characteristic.
  Achieving maturity without showing the visible signs of ageing is also a strongly held aspiration.

Australia

Beauty Buzzwords: Friendliness, optimism and happiness.

• We're a laid-back, healthy, feminine, amicable and individual bunch, apparently!
  77% of us plan to age naturally without surgery.
  Australian women like to keep things simple, clean and fresh. Having smooth skin, bright eyes and shiny, healthy hair are considered some of our best assets.
  The main outer beauty concerns here are being overweight, having cellulite and stretch marks.

Germany

Beauty Buzzwords: Naturalness and individuality.

• Invasive plastic surgery is frowned upon and one of the highest rating responses was, "making the most of what you have".
  Being natural, individual and feminine are all classed as "beautiful".
  From an early age German women are encouraged to exercise and slather on body lotion to keep skin moisturised and supple throughout life.

What to you is the ultimate definition of beauty?
Share what beauty is to you on the NIVEA website