As a busy physician and mother of two young children—a 3-year-old son and a 1-year-old daughter—I may not always have the luxury of a long shower or the chance to slip into my favorite pair of stilettos. However, I always make it a point to apply a swipe of lipstick each day.
Working full-time while managing the needs of my children can be overwhelming. There are days when my husband is the only other adult I interact with, and if I didn’t have my dog, I might not step outside for fresh air, especially during the colder months. Yet, I persevere.
One of the primary reasons I wear lipstick is that it enhances my appearance. When I look good, it boosts my self-esteem, allowing me to tackle the challenges of motherhood with more confidence. My husband appreciates my effort, and while he would love me regardless, a little attention to my appearance doesn’t hurt. After all, I expect him to maintain his grooming routine.
Lipstick also serves as a nostalgic reminder of my life before kids. During those days, I had the time and budget for regular salon visits and self-care rituals. Nowadays, my beauty budget is often redirected toward diapers and childcare, yet I can still indulge in the simplicity of lipstick. Transitioning from summer’s vibrant tinted balms to autumn’s rich berry shades keeps me feeling connected to the world around me, even as my style may lag behind current trends.
As mothers, we often prioritize our children’s needs above our own. We dress them, feed them, and ensure they are happy before we even have our first sip of coffee. It’s common to select the most flattering family photo for holiday cards, even if we look a bit tired. We might even let our kids have the last bite of dessert, despite our own cravings.
Taking a moment to put on lipstick is a small act of self-care that I cherish. The brief ritual of twisting the tube, applying the color, and ensuring an even coat takes mere seconds but provides me with the fortitude to handle multiple spills or diaper changes throughout the day.
Some may perceive this as vanity, but I argue that a little vanity is beneficial. Just as I apply sunscreen daily to protect my skin from cancer and aging, I also watch my diet and incorporate exercise whenever possible—even if it means dancing with my kids in the living room. This not only reduces my risk of health issues but also helps me fit back into my pre-pregnancy clothes sooner.
Lipstick is a reminder of the person I used to be and the version I aspire to be once these chaotic years of parenting pass. It’s my little slice of sanity in a busy world. For more insights on self-care during motherhood, you might find this article on intracervicalinsemination.com/blog interesting.
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In summary, wearing lipstick is more than just a beauty routine for me; it’s a small act of self-empowerment that allows me to embrace my individuality amidst the chaos of motherhood.