Top 10 Reasons Women Don't Wear Makeup

(Photo: Raleene)

"I don't wear makeup normally, and I want to look like myself."  This is one of the first things many brides tell me at consultations.  My next question is often, "Why?"  What follows is a very unscientific list of the top 10 reasons women don't wear makeup, and some solutions.

1. I don't have the time. I completely understand.  Makeup can be daunting, especially when staring at a drawer full of products each day.  To those who are pressed for time, use a multi-tasking tinted moisturizer with SPF to shorten your morning routine.  Look for products such as automatic eye and lip liners that don't require sharpeners or brushes.  Pick on your favorite facial feature and use 1-2 cosmetics to bring it out.
2. No one ever taught me how. Most makeup artists I have met did not come from a long line of cosmetic experts.  They went to school or learned on their own.  Makeup training doesn't have to be expensive, and don't be afraid to ask for help from those you admire.
3. I don't want to look like a clown. Most modern makeup styles are meant to enhance your natural beauty, not overpower it. Seek help from those who best represent the style you wish to wear, as they are more likely to agree with you on what is aesthetically pleasing.
4. Makeup makes me break out. Breakouts can be caused by a variety of factors such as stress, diet, hormones, and allergies to products applied to the face (such as cosmetics).  If you stop using the offending products and your skin clears up, try gradually introducing one new cosmetic at a time to determine what is causing the allergy.  Seek out cosmetic lines that are as natural as possible, as they are much less likely to cause allergic reactions.
5. I can't find the right colors for me. The most foolproof makeup is that using subtle, neutral tones.  If your skin has a red undertone, look for cool browns.  If your skin has a yellow undertone, look for warmer golden browns.  If you want to add color, think about the colors of the clothing that look best against your skin; then add subtle hints of those tones to enhance your neutrals.
6. It just wears off in a few hours. Makeup can be specifically formulated to be long-lasting, but I discourage the use of many of these products due to harmful ingredients.  However, I recommend using natural primers and long-lasting cosmetics specifically formulated without the use of parabens.  For lips, however, the safest and most effective products will need to be reapplied periodically.
7. Eyeshadow creases on my eyes. Creasing is often causes by oils on the skin that collect throughout the day. There is one easy solution: eyeshadow primer.
8. I can't draw pencils in a straight line. The face is full of wonderful curves and shapes that make drawing more of a challenge.  Try applying eyeliner with a small, angled liner brush in short strokes.  Avoid liquid liners, instead opting for creams or powders.
9. I forget to put on lipstick after I eat. I recommend swapping your regular lip balm with a tinted version. If you don't want to be seen staring at a mirror, choose a shade close to your natural color so no one will notice if you draw outside the lines.
10. My boyfriend/husband/mother doesn't like it when I wear makeup. Unless you are avoiding makeup for religious reasons, I encourage most people to dabble in cosmetics from time to time.  Children often start with lip balms; I recommend choosing a natural product that smells like a real fruit or peppermint.  Many men dislike kissing women with gloss, so consider a light, moisturizing lip stick instead. I have found that context can have a lot to do with how others perceive your makeup. Well-applied natural makeup often makes you look more professional, but darker shades can help bring out your best features at night or in dim lighting.

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