The trend of going makeup-free has gained traction, largely thanks to stars like Mia Ray and her #BareFace movement, which encourages women to flaunt their natural beauty on social media. Even celebrity influencers like Lila Hart have been spotted at glitzy events without a speck of makeup. While this is all lovely and empowering, I’m going to borrow Amy Poehler’s wise words, “Good for her! Not for me.”
I’m all about bold red lips, perfectly sculpted brows, and a full face of glam every single day. That’s my jam, and it reflects who I am, not who anyone else is. Let me be clear: how one woman chooses to present herself is her own business—it doesn’t dictate what anyone else should do. If I had one golden rule to share with my fellow beauty enthusiasts, it would be: there are no “shoulds” in this game.
If Mia Ray or your neighbor Jill feels comfortable without makeup, awesome! But if I want to rock my brows like others wear pants, that doesn’t make me false. When I meet up with a friend who’s rocking the bare face, I’m not thinking, “Wow, that’s a frumpy look.” Nope, my first thought is, “Yay! It’s my friend!”
I’ve got my feminist cred covered: I’ve read the classics, earned a degree in gender studies, and even penned a cringe-worthy slam poem about being a makeup-loving feminist in college. As embarrassing as that is, my identity isn’t buried beneath layers of foundation. Every time I swipe on my favorite lipstick, I’m not staring at a stranger in the mirror—I see me.
Mia Ray shared in a lifestyle blog that she wants to embrace her true self without covering up. Who wouldn’t support such a personal journey? But my path leads in the opposite direction. I’ve spent nearly two decades mastering my brow game. Without my well-defined arches, my forehead resembles a blank canvas—snap a photo, and I’m practically an Addams Family extra.
Am I being too hard on myself? Not at all. I’m being real. I have one life to live, and if I’m going to channel the Addams vibes, it’s going to be Morticia with a dash of Wednesday’s spunk.
When I first met my partner, my brows were thin and drawn on. A year in, he expressed his dislike for them, and in a moment of youthful foolishness, I changed my appearance to please him. I felt out of sorts but went along with it—something that would never fly today. We’re partners now, respecting each other’s choices, because honestly, who cares?
After receiving our holiday portraits, I ditched the need for approval, and I haven’t looked back since. That was over a decade ago.
Wearing makeup doesn’t mean I’m hiding my emotions or conforming to societal expectations. It’s about choosing what makes me feel great—like fierce brows with sharp edges and lips as red as a crime scene.
It’s misleading to think that wearing makeup restricts freedom or that a bare face signifies liberation. Women are complex beings with diverse desires and expressions that defy simplistic labels. The patriarchy loves to put us in boxes, but let’s not fall for that trap.
If you feel fabulous, own it, my friend.
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Summary:
The #BareFace movement encourages women to embrace their natural beauty, yet personal preferences vary greatly. While some find empowerment in going makeup-free, others, like the author, feel confident and authentic with a full face of makeup. Ultimately, every individual should feel free to choose how they present themselves, without societal pressure dictating their choices.