I’ll be the first to admit that I’m absolutely obsessed with makeup. I’m a self-proclaimed makeup hoarder. I have over 100 lipsticks that to the untrained eye may seem like they’re comprised of only 5 colors however, I can tell you the differences of each lipstick. Lately, it appears that makeup has become a significant part of our culture. Celebrities such as Rihanna, Tyra Banks, and the Kardashian clan have amassed great wealth by throwing their hat into the  makeup ring. Social Media has breathed life into hundreds of new makeup brands while forcing the “OG” brands to step their game up. Makeup shaming appears to be at an all time high right now. Seriously, I can’t get on social media without seeing a post about being team natural versus wearing a face full of makeup. In addition to, the countless memes that suggest a man should take a girl swimming on the first date so that he can see what her face looks like without makeup. People assume that a woman must be insecure if she wears makeup. Men seem to think that we wear makeup for them. However, the psychology behind why women wear makeup runs much deeper than that. I’m going to explore several reasons why women wear makeup and it may surprise you.

1. Self Expression 

With makeup a woman can express herself without uttering a single word. I have a very bold, outspoken personality. I’m what you call “extra” and when I go out I’m always wearing either red, green, black or blue lipstick. I love to wear colors that say “hey, stop what you’re doing and look at me!” I’m a risk taker and I express that through my makeup. I have a friend who loves makeup just as much as me however, unlike me she’s quite reserved and prefers a minimal makeup application with just a pop of color. Often times, makeup gives you a sense of a woman’s personality. 

2. Confidence

 Wearing makeup can be a great self-esteem booster. Several studies have concluded that when a woman feels prettier her confidence increases. On those days that I’m feeling blah, I love to blast trap music and give myself a red carpet beat down. I transform myself into a super sexy, bold woman who doesn’t put up with BS from anyone. Also, I remind myself that I can conquer anything. I’ve noticed that once I transform my negative thoughts into positive ones my day is much more successful. 

3. Art

Art is defined as the expression or application of a human creative skill or imagination, usually in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works primarily to be appreciated for their beauty or emotional power. Makeup is a skill that takes years and years of practice to master. I remember the first time I attempted winged eyeliner and ended up looking like Amy Winehouse and not on purpose. Keeping a steady hand is one of the hardest things to do. However, creating the right foundation shade for your skin tone may be the hardest skill to master. If you have two-tone skin like mine then you can understand my frustration. It took me atleast two years to find two foundation shades that combined matched my skin. This task involved tons of trial and error, sometimes I would end up looking too orange or gray when the foundation oxidized.  Makeup requires a lot time, effort and energy. I feel like a walking masterpiece once I’m done.

4. Because We Want Too Damn It! 

Women wear makeup because we want to! We wear makeup because we like it! Makeup feels good! Playing in makeup is fun! Essentially, there is no real rhyme or reason in regards to why we do it. Makeup makes me freaking happy! Who doesn’t like doing things that makes them happy?! Sometimes, there really isn’t a deep, profound reason behind why a woman chooses to wear makeup. When a woman wears makeup it doesn’t necessarily mean she has low self-esteem or is unattractive. There is no shame in enhancing your natural beauty. For me, makeup represents freedom and it’s one of the greatest forms of self-expression.

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It’s absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to put your best face forward. If wearing makeup makes you feel good then do it and own it!