Cosmetics and makeup are a multibillion dollar industry. All across social media and advertising, we see nothing but tips and tricks for perfect skin, eyebrow tutorials, and Kylie Jenner lip kits.
And there is no shame in that. Makeup is fun! Unfortunately, some people use makeup as a way to conceal their face, and they feel that they do not look as attractive without makeup. This is sadly true for a lot of people.
For anyone who knows me, they know I love creating special effects/fantasy/blood-and-gore makeup, but I do happen to wear a lot of makeup on a daily basis. Some of it may be a little outrageous to some, but intensely winged eyeliner, wine-colored lipstick, and three vertical dots in the center of my forehead is art to me, and the artistic aspect is why I do it. I did, however, used to use makeup as a crutch and hide my face.
Knowing this, it may seem a bit shocking that I once stopped wearing makeup.
For a total of nine months.
Yep. Nine months. No winged eyeliner. No cover-up foundation. No dark lipstick. Here’s what happened:
I Slept In Longer/Had More Time To Get Ready
This one may be obvious. Without having to set aside 30-45 minutes to do my makeup in the morning, I could stay in bed longer. If I chose to get up at the same time still, I had more time to shower, choose my outfit for the day, do my hair, eat breakfast, etc.
My Skin Improved
Small blemishes and imperfections here and there cleared up because I wasn’t covering my face in foundation, concealer, or powder. The disclaimer is that I had chronic acne and had to later be put on medication to help; however, any blackhead, small pimples, and clogged pores disappeared.
I/Other People Got Used To My Natural Face
After a while, people got used to seeing me without makeup and didn’t really think much of it. I even got compliments on the way I looked. What’s more important is that I got used to my face. I saw myself in the mirror and was okay with who I saw.
My View On Makeup Changed
After a while, I decided to start wearing makeup again, but not to conceal my face; I now saw makeup as a way to express yourself through an art form that you wear on your body, just as you would with clothing or accessories. More importantly than that, it is a choice. The message is not to dissuade you from wearing makeup; it is to show that it is your choice. Whether you choose to buy all of the Urban Decay Naked Palettes, or you choose to keep your face naked, you are beautiful, in every single way.
