I'm a college student and already have a part time job. I pick up modeling as a side hobby and I had a glow up these past couple of years so some beauty companies have teamed up with me and I've already made $80 this year. Think mircoinfluencer. It feels really dumb that I want to be one but I think it's fun but I also tend to go through rounds where I start comparing myself and take a break due to becoming depression. I'm also low income so I can't keep up with trends as much as my other friends, also trying to hold down work/school. I have met some amazing photographers and really cool artsy people I otherwise would have never met! Also the opportunities and getting free skincare products. Overall a lot of fun and it boosts my confidence but it also makes me want to feel perfect all the time. It also feels embarassing to admit to other people what I do.
There is also people who use social media to promote themselves like those medschool influencers and lawtok.
If it steals your peace of mind, then no.
is $80/year worth your mental well-being?
To make money you can live on, you've gotta treat it like a full time job. If you're ok with that, go for it.
Even with all the self-confidence and beauty in the world, IG is a cesspit where most people use filters and look nothing like that in real life. If you can educate yourself on this, truly adopt this mindset every time you see any pictures and also treat it like a job while comfortable in yourself, you'll be fine. However, it is obviously a tall order because we're human and IG is all about reeling us in through even the slightest of insecurities.
As a side note, the shame you speak of makes me worry. You can do whatever you want if you're okay with it!
IMHO beauty industry is not worth it. I didn't realize even the best MUAs of the world are not paid to do editorials for magazines. Beauty industry is very profitable for corporations, but takes advantage of their workers. I bet it has to do with most workers being women.