There's nothing quite as satisfying as the moment you make both of your cat eyes even or the moment you are finally able to pull off that power brow you've been wanting. Makeup takes serious talent and artistry, despite the lack of respect and recognition that most everyday women get from their makeup hobby. In fact, more often than not, makeup addicts are told that they'd "look better with less makeup" or that "they're tricking men" by using products. The people who make these comments do so because they think of makeup as something that women do for others, not for themselves. This is not the case.

Communities of makeup lovers gather to share their passion for the art and to, together, perfect their techniques; they do not gather to discuss what people would like to see them wear most. We wear makeup to empower ourselves, to reflect our inspirations, and to create something beautiful. Isn't that what all artists do?

On the other hand, I'm not denying that makeup can't be a confidence booster. For those who suffer from things like acne or alopecia, makeup can be a godsend. Everyone has their own self-esteem issues, and yet it's still not uncommon for someone to shame a makeup addict by calling them "insecure." It's not easy to learn to love your flaws, so there's nothing wrong with a little help. Considering that we live in a world where celebrities are starved, photo-shopped, and otherwise expertly styled for the public, can we really criticize women for trying to put their best face forward?

The belief that makeup exists to deceive is baseless as well. It's not as if anyone sincerely thinks that Kim Kardashian's eyelashes or perfectly pink lips are real. We can all tell when someone wears eyeliner- so how, exactly, is makeup fooling anyone?

The reality is that people are critiqued every day on their choice to either wear makeup or to do without it. Many women in the workplace are called "disheveled" or "unprofessional" for wanting to keep their faces bare. Meanwhile, other women are told that they look "slutty" or like they're "trying too hard" when they choose to wear makeup. The truth is that no one can win against haters- you just have to make your own choices and be proud of them.