Growing up as a young and impressionable girl in America, my mind accustomed to exactly what society shoved down my throat. At age 10 I received my first eyeliner pen. At 12, foundation. The list goes on. It’s as if when you’re born into this certain gender, you’re promised these things because it’s the societal norm. We're taught that women NEED to wear makeup, so you give it to them young. But at the same time, women are taught that makeup is too much. That natural beauty is what’s best.

That’s where the whole no-makeup-makeup look comes into play. We’re tricked by the media that these models and celebrities aren’t wearing an ounce of makeup, but in reality, their pores are practically oozing with foundation and contour. And don’t get me wrong, I’m obsessed with makeup. I wouldn’t call myself a makeup artist, but I’m interested in taking on that role. It’s just that this type of double standard in society is so wrong, and it sends such conflicting signals to the public. Is it okay to wear makeup? Is it not? Is it only okay if it’s a little bit of foundation and some mascara? Is it only good on occasion?

The answer is: It’s always okay. It’s also okay to NOT wear it. It’s okay to be you. As cheesy as that expression is in 2016, it’s the truth. These days, we are lucky to have such inspiring makeup artists to look up to. Women and men who advocate for loving yourself and also loving the art of makeup. Women like Jackie Aina are the ones who influence me to keep going, despite the discouragement I sometimes face as a practicing makeup artist. She teaches that it's what you’re most comfortable with, in the end. Because makeup is for nobody but yourself no matter what people say.