"How much of your daily routine is influenced by society’s beauty standards, and what if you could redefine beauty on your own terms?"
We’ve all heard that “true beauty comes from within,” haven’t we? It’s almost like a broken record. Meanwhile, society’s out there shouting, “But don’t forget to paint over it just in case!”
Opinions on daily makeup use vary widely. Some argue that makeup boosts confidence, serves as a form of self-expression, or enhances one’s features. Others believe it’s about masking flaws, hiding insecurities, or gaining validation and attractiveness.
Personally, I’m neutral about makeup, but negative opinions sometimes lead me to question why there’s so much pressure for women to wear it daily, even when many of them don’t want to.
If a woman enjoys makeup because it gives her confidence, allows her to stand out, or lets her express her creativity, that’s one really great thing. However, when women feel compelled to cover their natural faces due to societal pressures that deem them old, unattractive, or tired without makeup, it’s troubling. Is this obsession with beauty merely a societal construct, or does it reveal deeper insecurities we all grapple with?
The real issue isn’t the makeup or these lifeless cosmetic products itself but how society values it.
With the rise of social media, even middle schoolers are becoming captivated by makeup trends through videos like “Get ready with me” or “My makeup routine”. I noticed that YouTubers have been discussing this topic, and recently similar content has been appearing on my ‘For You’ pages on Instagram and YouTube. It’s troubling to see how makeup is being portrayed as a means to gain confidence or be accepted, especially among teenagers. This shift, where cosmetics are viewed as crucial for beauty and social acceptance, is concerning.
Makeup, once a tool for enhancing beauty, has now become almost a prerequisite for being considered attractive or accepted, which is disheartening.
This shift in attitude reflects a broader societal issue where external appearances are given undue importance. The emphasis on makeup as a marker of beauty and self-worth can lead to superficial judgments and pressures, especially for younger generations who are still forming their self-identity. These kids, still navigating their way through self-discovery, often can’t differentiate between what’s truly beneficial and what’s merely a fleeting trend. To them, every shimmering product appears as gold. It’s our responsibility to provide them with thoughtful examples and guide them in understanding what genuinely serves their well-being at this tender age.
The surge in social media influence and beauty standards exacerbates this, encouraging individuals to conform to a certain image to fit in or gain approval. This not only affects personal self-esteem but also perpetuates a cycle where external validation becomes a primary measure of self-worth.
Women who choose not to wear makeup every day often face relentless scrutiny and judgment. A single pimple or natural blemish becomes a glaring flaw in the eyes of critics, who feel entitled to comment on every imperfection. Open pores, marks from previous breakouts, or even the mere presence of moles can draw unwanted attention and advice. Dark circles are treated as signs of fatigue or neglect, and natural features like pale lips, short lashes, or facial hair are sometimes deemed less feminine or "unladylike." This constant barrage of criticism can make opting out of daily makeup feel like a personal rebellion rather than a simple preference.
It’s disheartening to realize how society imposes an expectation on women to look flawless at all times. This relentless pressure, from a society that clearly has nothing better to do, demands that women adhere to superficial beauty standards around the clock. As if maintaining this unrealistic image were a part-time job with no pay, women are pushed to sacrifice their mental peace just to meet these societal expectations. Of course, this pursuit of perfection is a wonderful way to exhaust oneself and erode self-esteem—who needs personal choice when you can have a burdensome obligation instead?
Remember, makeup should be a personal choice, not a societal mandate. Let’s celebrate and support those who choose to go bare-faced and embrace their natural beauty. By fostering a culture where makeup is an option rather than a necessity, we ensure that everyone feels valued for who they are, not just how they look.
