Makeup; cosmetics such as lipstick or powder applied to the face, used to enhance or alter the appearance. Students, especially in adolescence, begin to feel pressure to conform to society’s ideal appearance and makeup can be seen as a crutch for diffidence.
Some believe that makeup is a veil of protection for insecure people. In a survey conducted by The Renfrew Foundation it was released that 58% of girls from the ages of 8 and 18 wear makeup. Society often sets expectations for people and makeup that seems to be a superficial tool rather than what it really can be for people, a platform for creativity and an outlet to turn to for a boost of confidence. Researchers of The International Journal of Cosmetic Science did a study where they asked 45 college students to imagine themselves in various social situations with and without their typical makeup routine. The case study found that the women were more sociable when practicing their routine than going completely without it. However this isn’t to be confused with a complete lack of confidence, just a lack of excess lust that boosts self-assurance.
Girls who wear makeup on a regular basis can agree that it is a utensil for their daily confidence and is not worn for the acceptance for others around them. Cosmetics promote more than compliance to what society deems as beautiful, they promote self acceptance.
“I really like art and see makeup as a form of art where you can create a different look every day,” junior Tuhan Ngo said.
As an artistic student, Tuhan plays with a variety of colors and glitters to achieve unique and beautiful looks daily.
“I feel like being able to express yourself is so important and if you can’t express yourself then what is your life for,” junior Gloria Kuvila said.
Students express themselves in many ways and makeup is a simple and powerful way for any gender to make a statement.
“When you look good, you feel good and makeup just gives you that extra boost of confidence,” junior Rachel Lindemann said.
Self assurance, unique expression, artistic capabilities are all benefits and opportunities of exploring the world of cosmetics.
An abundance of research has been conducted to show a correlation between self confidence and the use of makeup, but really makeup creates more than that. According to students, a self expression connection to their passions can be achieved. A form of art can be harnessed while finding a love and acceptance for themselves. Makeup may not be necessary to all students but may allow students to connect to a confident persona and to a spirit that all ethnicities and gender identities can relate to.