My typical makeup routine consists of a layer of foundation, eyelid primer, a subtle smoky eye, winged eyeliner, blush, highlight, along with a light-to-moderate contour, filled-in eyebrows, a coat of mascara, some translucent powder to reduce oiliness and a setting spray to finish the look. That sounds like a lot of makeup, and it kind of is. I will admit that I wear makeup to improve my confidence and to cover up imperfections. I will admit that my acne and acne scars embarrass me, along with my uneven skin tone. So, makeup saves my days and gives and allows me to face the world.
Along with wearing makeup as a cover (note how it is not a mask for I am still recognizable), makeup, for me, is a pastime. It is a hobby that has become rather enjoyable and almost therapeutic. Yes, actually breaking a sweat while trying to get my eyeliner perfect every morning is fun for me. Makeup application is an art. It is a science. Every individual has different skin and finding a formula that works for your skin type and your skin tone is a lot of trial and error. It is also an art because, wow, blending a smoky eye can be a challenge.
Let me tell you, my first couple of hundred tries, I ended up with two black eyelids and a whole lot of frustration. So, developing that talent and level of artistry is remarkable, if I do say so myself. (Yes, I toot my own horn, 'cause I do rock). Eyeliner is another story! Getting a straight line that actually sits on your lash line is a challenge in and of itself, never mind duplicating it on the other eye ('cousins, not sisters,' I tell myself as consolation).
So, I’m not a beauty guru! I don’t have to be. Anyone can enjoy the pleasure that is makeup. Which brings me to my point: This is all a lot of effort, so why should I be faulted for putting effort into something? While it can be viewed as superficial, vain, or as a waste of time, I see it as investing time into being the best version of myself. With a full face of makeup I feel really terrific and I gain the confidence to be more social. I feel more confident in school work, test taking, and just simple everyday activities or interactions
Makeup provides me with control over my appearance. Someday my skin will improve, but I can be in charge of how my face looks in the moment, all with the help of makeup. I don’t have immediate control over the rest of my appearance. There’s no way I can make my thighs any smaller or lose 40 pounds in 30 minutes. However, in 30 minutes, I can transform my face into something I want to present to the world, through makeup.
I see the benefits makeup provides for me. Not everyone has to wear makeup, but those of us who do should not be faulted for it. No one should be faulted for not wanting to be in public without makeup on. At the same time, no one should be faulted for not having a desire to wear makeup. I understand that I should feel comfortable in my own skin, and I am. I do not intend to be deceiving through my use of makeup. I am still me. I would just prefer to enhance the good and minimize the not-so-good.
