Lifestyle
“Mom, why do you wear makeup? Is it to look prettier?” my 8-year-old daughter asked as I prepared for a family barbecue. I paused, realizing the weight of my response. This was one of those pivotal moments that could shape her understanding of beauty and self-worth. My answer needed to be thoughtful.
“Yes, sweetie. I wear makeup because I enjoy it, and yes, it does make me feel prettier.”
While I’m sure a child development expert might suggest a different angle, my honesty prevailed. I wear makeup for various reasons, and I won’t deny that looking better is one of them. My daughter is going to face countless messages from beauty ads throughout her life, telling her how to enhance her looks. Downplaying my makeup use would have been misleading.
I’ve been a makeup enthusiast since seventh grade. After struggling with acne as a teen, I discovered that makeup could help me feel more confident in school. I remember my mom taking me to the local drugstore, guiding me to the right foundation and concealer for my skin tone. That small act made a big difference, allowing me to focus on school and socializing instead of my insecurities.
Over time, my gratitude evolved into a love for high-quality cosmetics that boost my confidence. It’s thrilling to explore new products at Sephora and find items I can enjoy using for months.
While I respect the opinions of moms who choose not to wear makeup, citing its potential impact on their daughters’ perceptions of beauty, I believe there are multiple ways to teach self-esteem. My daughter learns about confidence from seeing me happy and self-assured when I take care of myself. She understands that prioritizing self-care is essential, and witnessing this routine sends a positive message.
It’s important to clarify that I’m not spending hours in front of a mirror. My makeup routine takes under ten minutes, and I even managed to find time for it shortly after giving birth. For those who say they didn’t wear makeup or shower in those early days? I can’t relate. I was applying makeup just an hour after my c-sections while still feeling numb. It doesn’t make me superior; it just shows how important my routine was to me.
Like any personal choice, makeup holds different meanings for different people. Whether it’s reading a novel, training for a marathon, or pursuing hobbies like fishing or golf, we all have activities that we prioritize. My daily makeup application is one of mine, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.
As for being a feminist who doesn’t care about external judgments regarding my appearance? I embrace my choice to wear makeup solely for myself.
To all the makeup-free moms out there: keep doing you. And to the moms who love their makeup? You’re awesome too. Choosing to wear or not wear makeup is just that—a choice.
If you’re interested in more discussions around motherhood and choices, check out this insightful post on Cervical Insemination. And if you’re considering at-home insemination options, Make a Mom offers reliable products. For guidance on pregnancy treatments, WebMD is an excellent resource.
In summary, as a mom who enjoys wearing makeup, I stand by my choice and believe in the power of self-care. Each mom has her own path, and that diversity should be celebrated, not judged.
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