Makeup as a Form of Self-Care

When people think of the expression “self-care”, the images that usually come to mind are face-masks, bubble-baths, Netflix, sweatpants, or some variation of all of the above. Of the many different variations of self-care that I have seen or heard of, makeup is almost always absent, save for that euphoric feeling of removing it after a long day. But what if I told you that makeup can be a form of self-care as well?

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As someone who enjoys putting on makeup, I seldom leave the house with a natural face. I use the term natural very lightly here, though, since as a student who greatly enjoys sleep, my usual look is pretty simple. However, I enjoy that part of my morning routine, and would even go as far as to say it’s my favorite part (unless it’s one of those days I treat myself to breakfast at Medici); I enjoy the process of putting the makeup on my face, seeing how fast I can go and still achieve the same results, seeing what little extra flair I can add with the extra minute or so I have, but most of all, I enjoy that it makes me happy. I feel happy when putting my makeup on, I enjoy putting my makeup on. If there is a day where I don’t feel like putting on makeup, I don’t; I don’t want to make it just another chore in my morning routine. That, is what I believe makes it a form of self-care for myself.

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Because I enjoy that part of my morning routine so much, its outcome can often vary depending on my mood that day. I tend to set aside more time to apply my makeup on mornings when I need an extra boost, which I feel has a positive impact on my mood for the rest of the day. There are some days when I might feel a bit down or drained, and those are the days when I make sure to take some time in the morning for my makeup routine, which always helps to spark a bit of joy and perk me up. People often advise to look for joy in the little things, and one of my little things I find joy in is my morning makeup routine. I find applying makeup to be relaxing, not unlike how some people find painting or baking to be relaxing.

So whether or not you think makeup should be considered a form of self-care, I think that makeup really is a kind of self-care when used properly. By this, I mean when it is because you enjoy it and for no other reason. Since after all, isn’t what self-care at its core about taking the time to do those little things that bring you joy?

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