Take off all the makeup, girl
Shine your light, show the world
Don’t be shy, don’t be scared
You don’t have to hide under there
Throw away all the magazines
Turn off the static on the TV
Wish you could see yourself the way I do
- Carrie Underwood
At the beginning of this year, I decided I was going to give up wearing makeup, with the exception of a few special occasions. I remember a time when I wouldn't walk out the door without makeup. For a long time, I was convinced that I needed makeup to look attractive. I don't know if that was a defense mechanism to keep people from noticing my body or if it was a way to make myself feel better. I remember I had been in two particular relationships that took a toll on my confidence. They both had a way of making it seem like I needed the makeup to be even be seen in public. I remember one of them would refuse to take me out if I didn't doll up for the night. The other had given me guilt trips for days I would wear makeup for reasons rather than a date, i.e. wedding, friend's birthday, interview, presentation, etc. Toxic relationships have a way of breaking a person down so much it takes months to years to lift your spirits again. After I got out of the hospital it was noticeable that the medicine and dehydration had really changed my appearance. My face looked dull, I was breaking out, I had dark circles around my eyes, and my confidence equally faded away. For months after I was discharged I avoided mirrors. It was the first time in a long time I felt uncomfortable in my own skin.
I've always loved makeup and for a short while I really wanted to become a makeup artist. I had spent nights practicing and learning everything I knew about makeup. I had figured out the perfect skin regimens and the best way to wear makeup so that it looked completely flawless. I have a soft spot for a few of my exes that constantly reminded me that I didn't need makeup and made me feel good about the few flaws I used to fixate on. Those were the relationships that uplifted my confidence to a new realm.
On New Year's Eve, I had spent the day working, afternoon cooking, and at night when it was time to change I looked in the mirror and vetoed wearing makeup. I wanted to bring 2013 in with a fresh look. My confidence, for the first time in a while, had revamped itself and I was smiling again. I can count the times I've worn makeup on my two hands and it's already May. I've noticed that the dark circles under my eyes have disappeared for the most part, my complexion is even, the dark spots on my face are gone with the exception of a few sun spots. I was reading about a girl who gave up all beauty product for 30 days, including shampoo, conditioner, face wash, and lotion. I'm afraid I'm not as bold to give up all products but the new challenge will be to give up heating and styling products. Once the weather becomes consistent, it would be interesting to see what my hair can withhold.
I challenged a few of my friends to give up makeup; they either gave me a blank stare or tried to convince me that eyeliner was all they did and that's not really wearing makeup. Eyeliner is still makeup and everyday wear does affect the area under eyes causing dark circles, dry skin, and uneven complexion. Take the challenge and stop wearing makeup. I promise you will notice a drastic difference. You have to understand your face will be going through a detox, therefore the first couple of weeks you will breakout and your complexion will be lackluster. Remember to keep hydrated, stay active, and take your vitamins. Water will maintain fluid balance, staying active will help you sweat out major impurities and bring dirt and oil to the surface, and taking the proper vitamins will help maintain healthy skin, hair, and nails. I read this article: http://www.herballuxuries.com/beauty-vitamins-and-nutrients.html The article explains what each vitamin does for you skin, as well as your overall health. When you start wearing makeup again, be aware your face will be sensitive so having a good skin regimen will be crucial to keeping your complexion even. Go ahead, I dare you.
