Does Makeup Matter Too Much?

By drodriguez Mar 05, 2012

Many of us have probably thanked the makeup gods on those mornings when we roll out of bed to find we don’t quite recognize the tired eyes staring back in the mirror. But what if you feel this way every morning? Jezebel reports about a recent survey conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of The Renfrew Center Foundation that shows nearly half of us, 44 percent, feel negatively about ourselves when not wearing makeup.

Makeup is so mainstream in our culture that many women feel naked if they go even one day without it. And who can blame them when we hear about a scientific study suggesting women who wear makeup are perceived by others to be more competent, likeable, and trustworthy.

There have been some efforts in recent years to encourage women to ditch the lipstick every once in a while. SheSpeaks reported about a trend known as "Makeup Free Mondays" where women were challenged to come to work au natural once a week. The idea is that going makeup-free every once in a while can help a woman realize her inner beauty and maybe change the overall perception that professional women need cosmetics to appear competent.

How do you feel about your makeup free appearance?

What is your beauty routine before work? Have you ever gone to work sans makeup?

*Photo courtesy of Simon Schluter*

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Comments

by jygriebel | Marble, PA

Mar 05, 2012

I like makeup but do not always wear it especially if I am really tired in the morning. It is true that it gives me a "lift" and I seem to feel better when I wear makeup.

by justpassingby | THOUSAND OAKS, CA

Mar 05, 2012

I only wear lipstick.

by justpassingby | THOUSAND OAKS, CA

Mar 05, 2012

I only wear lipstick.

by drayvenn | CHERRYVALE, KS

Mar 05, 2012

It matters a lot to me. Just like matching your clothes, you want to look put together. I wouldn't even check my mail without having first dressed and that includes makeup and hair. I don't see anything wrong with wanting to look your best. You just never know what will spring up, if I run into someone and they ask me to coffee I can't expect my friend to just hang out an hour while I get ready. Of course on the flip side I never judge anyone for not having on makeup so I guess it is just personal preference. :D

by CaliJulz | LOMITA, CA

Mar 05, 2012

IM not much of a makeup girl durng the week...kids, basketball, workouts and so on...weekends however, me & hubby = full face!!

by noelrocs | LANCASTER, SC

Mar 05, 2012

I absolutely love makeup and I wear it every day... I wear it different ways, though--darker, lighter, smoky, natural, barely there etc. It just depends on what's going on. I doubt I'd ever leave the house without makeup on, though... I just don't have the complexion to feel confident that way... I'd at least need a tinted moisturizer on. So, nope, I've never gone to work without makeup on... I keep a little "to-go bag" in my purse for emergencies. It just has a cream eye shadow, a foundation sample, a tiny mascara and nail polish :) I go makeup-free at home, though ;)

by socialzigi | MANDEVILLE, LA

Mar 05, 2012

This image is really quite captivating and definitely got me thinking. I actually do not wear makeup most days but when I have an important event I cake it on. There is something that makes me more confident when I have makeup on - my skin has a "glow" to it and I do not feel as self conscious.

by MissELF | CONNERSVILLE, IN

Mar 05, 2012

I used to wear a lot of make up as a teen, but not so much now. Especially being a mommy. There just isn't always time for it. However, I do feel better about myself with it on. That is mainly because I have so many skin problems. My skin is dry, acne prone, dark eye circles and un-even tone. I feel like I look sickly/deadly without it lol! If anything I just use make up mostly on weekends when I have more time and I'm out and about more. Usually though it's just concealor under my eyes and mascara.

by IDJmomofthree | SACRAMENTO, CA

Mar 05, 2012

You know it's really about making a woman feel confident & at her best. So if it's makeup that makes her feel confident & secure likes shes wonder woman I say go for it. I love make-up & cosmetics myself I do think that some people like myself really need it & there are others that look soo much better without it.. I dont think make up is hurting anyone so ! I think body image & people being dangerously obsessed to be rail thin is more of an issue. Cheers to Make-Up

by brysboo | Lenexa, KS

Mar 05, 2012

I work from home, so I can certainly go sans makeup, but I feel so much better if I use my tinted moisturizer and some mascara. If I'm going out I do a lot more.

by Tricias-List | Millersville, MD

Mar 05, 2012

I don't use makeup much. During a normal day,the only only thing I wear is a moisturizer.Now,with that being said, I do have a ton of makeup.I use my makeup when I am going out for special occasions or when I just want to be fancy.And sometimes,I use a little color as a pick me up for myself. Remember back in the "old days" when family's were always dressed up? The husbands in their suits and the wives in the dresses and heels? I kinda wish it were like that sometimes...but then again,I LOVE to be free from the stress of it all!