Is it normal for people to be so superficial?

Firstly, welcome to the beautiful people's club.

I'm just kidding, we never mention it directly. I think it's interesting that you've experienced this from both 'sides' so you see how people treat you differently.
And yeh, I gotta say, I think everyone is superficial like this to some degree.
I used to rail against this and think people were so shallow, but then even I would have my limits. If a woman was mutant ugly, she would have to be some kind of amazing person for anyone to be attracted to her.
Also, some women don't look the hottest, but they have a sexy sparkle and personality which is extremely attractive.
The people in your post do sound like morons... what they're saying is generally true, but it sounds very shallow and there's no need to say it.

So... people aren't all that bad, not everyone thinks SO superficially. But yes, fairly obviously looks do play a part in attraction. Although it's paper-thin, the depth comes from personality, which creates massive attraction, sometimes despite looks.

So don't lose faith in humanity! But also accept that people are going to assess you based on your appearance, and take advantage of it.