An ongoing debate about makeup concerns why women wear it in the first place. Some argue that it's for men's attention. Others say it's to just feel better about oneself or to show off to other women. But have we ever considered that makeup could be used as a coping tool?
For me, this is what makeup is sometimes. On a regular day, I'm prone to slapping on some primer, foundation, concealer, and mascara, and walking out the door. However, on some days when I'm not feeling so hot, am tired, am stressed, or just not looking forward to the day's events, I spend a little more time in the mirror. A little eye shadow, contouring, eyeliner, and lip color can do some good for the soul.
For Stress,
When I feel stressed, it is usually because I feel like I'm losing control. I often stress-clean my apartment because it eases my mind when my world seems crazy; I can at least control the tranquility of my living space. I think the same applies to my face. When I feel like my world is spinning too fast and I dread the day ahead, I choose to do something that will give me a confidence boost and allow me to say, "I may not be able to control some things in life or I may not want to do the task at hand, but at least my eyeliner is on point."
It may seem silly, but sometimes a winged liner is a little victory that can help me through the day.
For illness,
When I'm under the weather, or on my period, or just otherwise feeling cruddy, I find it helpful to use makeup as a coping tool. I may be all bloaty, and feel gross, but if my makeup is on point, I at least have that going for me. I may not feel great, but I look decent anyway.
For Self-care,
We are seeing more and more people take time out of their day for self-care, whether it is in the form of meditation, prayer, yoga, coloring, or reading. Why can't doing your makeup also be a self-care tool? No, you don't need makeup to be "more of a person" or to be accepted, but spending a few extra minutes on yourself can help you to appreciate yourself. As long as you aren't saying "I'm ugly, and I need this to like myself," I think makeup can be a healthy way to take time for you. Doing something that makes you feel good and can help you to feel good all day is always a positive thing.
So, what does makeup mean to you? Do you use it as a coping tool, or just as a social requirement?
