In one of my classes this week, we spent a good 30 minutes discussing ways society has changed the way women live their everyday lives. Our conversation really got me thinking about the standards society has placed on us, specifically with makeup. Personally, I don't wear makeup on a daily basis. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy applying makeup and trying new products, but I HATE how much time it takes. I would much rather stay in bed until the very last minute because 8 a.m. classes are the death of me. It amazes me how much time and money women are spending on makeup products.
Nowadays, women can actually change the shape of their face with this magical concept we like to call contouring. Some people might blame the Kardashians for introducing contouring to the public because we all know they don't look the same without a little (or a lot of) contour.
Why are we doing this to ourselves?
Some women are putting on so much makeup they don't even look like the same person without it. I am definitely not saying women shouldn't wear makeup. I just want to get to the bottom of why we are wearing so much. Is it because women aren't comfortable in their own skin? Do we think people will judge us for not wearing makeup? When I wear makeup, I feel more confident and I feel better about myself. On the other hand, I can honestly admit I sometimes wear it because I think people will judge me if I don't. If I am attending a fancy event with a lot of people, I almost feel obligated to wear makeup. Historically, women have not always worn makeup, so why do we feel the need to wear it all of the time now?
We may never know the answers to these questions, but I want to get one thing straight. Women are beautiful with AND without makeup. Every woman should truly know how beautiful she is inside and out. In all honesty, makeup doesn't make women more beautiful. Why do I believe this? Because there is nothing more beautiful than a woman being comfortable and confident in her own skin. My hope is for every woman to stop and think about why she wears makeup. If you are doing it for yourself then good for you! If you are wearing makeup for society or a guy, put the brush down. Try to go makeup free for a week and see how you feel.
