Makeup has become one of the most talked about subjects in the past year. From makeup tutorials on YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest, to monthly subscriptions like Ipsy and Birchbox, you can't go anywhere without hearing about it or seeing it. Oddly enough, it has become a controversial topic as well. A lot of people feel the need to voice their concern about others wearing too much makeup and if you have seen those rude before and after photo memes you will see comments that say “girls are tricking men into thinking that they are pretty” or "I am having trust issues." First of all, I am sorry if you believe that my eyelids are naturally a shimmery gold. They aren't, and that palette cost me $49. I hate seeing comments, like I mentioned above, all over the Internet. I also dislike the people who think they are better than others because they do not wear makeup, as if that makes them superior or something.
Makeup shaming is not funny and should not even be done. It is hateful and mean. I believe that being able to do your makeup is an art and a way for people to express themselves and to show their individuality and uniqueness. I think this type of art brings makeup users together because we learn from one another. I say “makeup users” because not just woman where makeup and I am loving that men are also breaking that boundary that only woman get to where it. I see more and more men on the Internet making how-to videos and showing off their creativity and they are so talented!
I think what people have to understand is that true beauty is not what is on the outside; it is what is on the inside. For some, makeup is just a fun hobby and for others, it helps them to feel secure and that is okay and nothing to be ashamed of. I think true beauty is having a great personality and the way someone carries themselves. A quote that I just recently heard from singer David Archuleta really resonated with me. He said, "a girl stands out when she radiates light." I believe that anyone, no matter what and who they are, can radiate that light that is inside them, for we have that strength within us. Yes, makeup enhances our features, but I think it is our soul that speaks for what is really beautiful.
Do not feel like you need to conform to society's standards of beauty and do not feel pressured to be something that you are not. Be confident in who you are and express yourself, your true self! So wing your eyeliner, curl your lashes, put on some red lipstick and conquer the world.
