How Makeup can improve your Mental Health

Makeup has been used for thousands of years as a means of self-expression and enhancing natural beauty. However, recent research has shown that makeup can also have powerful psychological benefits and improve mental health. In this blog post, we’ll explore the ways makeup can boost mood, reduce anxiety and stress, build confidence and self-esteem, and act as a creative outlet for self-care.

Makeup Boosts Mood

Studies have shown that simply wearing makeup can have an immediate positive impact on mood. A study published in the journal Cosmetics in 2018 found that when women applied makeup, they reported significant decreases in depressive mood states. Feelings of sadness, tiredness, and anger were all reduced.

Makeup allows us to present our best selves to the world. When we feel good about our appearance, it triggers the release of endorphins - “feel good” hormones that boost mood and energy. Makeup has also been shown to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. The ritual of applying makeup helps us focus on the present moment and achieve a state of flow. This has a calming, mindful effect that can lower stress.

Makeup also provides a sense of control and mastery over our appearance that can be empowering. Choosing flattering colors and techniques gives us agency over how we present ourselves each day. This boosts self-confidence and allows us to face daily challenges with energy and optimism.

Makeup Reduces Anxiety and Stress

For many people, wearing makeup gives them a sense of armor or barrier between themselves and the outside world. Makeup allows people who struggle with social anxiety or self-consciousness about their appearance to face social and professional situations with greater confidence.

Knowing that dark circles, blemishes, and other “flaws” are concealed can take away anxiety about being judged. Makeup evens out skin tone and brings symmetry and balance to facial features. Features are sharpened and given definition. When features are balanced, it sends a signal to the primal parts of the brain that this person is healthy. This can short-circuit feelings of anxiety.

The application of makeup requires focus and attention. This mindful ritual can lower racing thoughts and be meditative. The “mask” created by makeup allows more social freedom and confidence. Daily makeup routines provide stability, normalcy, and mastery in times of high stress and uncertainty.

Makeup Builds Confidence and Self-Esteem

Numerous studies have shown that wearing makeup enhances perceptions of attractiveness, likability, competency and trustworthiness. This powerful psychological effect boosts confidence and self-esteem. When we feel good about our appearance, we project more poise, confidence and authority.

Makeup has been linked to higher self-esteem in both teenagers and adult women. The confidence gained from makeup has concrete professional benefits. Studies show that women who wear makeup in the workplace are perceived as more competent and get higher performance ratings and more promotions.

The transformative power of makeup to enhance our best features can change how we feel about ourselves. Makeup allows us to shape-shift and inhabit different identities. A bold red lipstick makes us feel glamorous while understated natural makeup creates a girl-next-door vibe. Makeup allows us to access and project different parts of our identity.

Makeup as Self-Care and Creative Outlet

For many, the application of makeup is a soothing ritual of self-care and the creation of art on our own faces. Choosing colors, tools and techniques provides an outlet for individual self-expression.

Like painting or drawing, makeup application requires creativity and skill. The face becomes the canvas. Makeup artistry channels energy, reduces stress and creates flow states similar to painting, sculpting or playing music.

Makeup provides a much-needed time for focusing just on yourself. The ritual requires being fully present. Racing thoughts settle as you concentrate on the pleasure of color and making art. Makeup becomes “me time” - a chance to relax and detach from work and responsibilities.

Many find the ritual of makeup therapeutic and use new techniques and trends as a creative outlet. Watching tutorial videos to learn new skills prevents stagnation and brings excitement. Makeup can also be a social experience that connects you with friends, partners and children.

Concealer Covers Dark Circles and Skin Imperfections

Covering up dark under-eye circles with concealer instantly brightens up the eyes and makes you look well-rested. Concealer seamlessly covers any blemishes, acne scars, age spots, under eye circles or uneven skin tone. Experts recommend using a color corrector under concealer to neutralize any bluish/purplish under eye circles or red acne scars and spots. Then layer concealer over top to perfect the skin. This mini-makeover leaves skin looking flawless.

When skin looks smooth, clear and radiant, it has an anti-aging effect. Lines, wrinkles and imperfections seem to disappear. You look refreshed and vibrant. The visual impact of perfected skin immediately boosts mood and confidence. Concealed skin allows natural beauty to shine through.

Application techniques like “baking” (pressing powder under eyes after concealer) provides long-lasting coverage. Waterproof and smudge-proof concealer formulations also cover imperfections for hours without needing touch ups. Dermatologist-developed concealers are non-irritating and nourishing to delicate skin under the eyes.

Foundation Makes Complexion Flawless

Finding the right foundation match for your skin type and tone can make a world of difference in your appearance. Foundation evenly covers the whole face and masks imperfections. The result is a smooth, flawless complexion with a lit-from-within glow.

Like concealer, foundation covers up acne, age spots, uneven tone, visible pores, and redness. A perfectly even, glowing complexion makes the face appear younger. Fine lines seem to disappear. fer

Applying foundation with fingertips, a sponge blender or buffing brush are all effective techniques. Powder foundations set makeup and reduce shine. Use a primer before foundation for smooth application and long wearing coverage. Setting spray at the end ensures makeup stays locked in place. Waterproof and transfer-resistant foundations are great for humid climates, busy days and special events.

Having foundation that is a perfect match for your skin tone is key. Test shades along the jawline in natural light to match. Foundations now cater to every skin type and ethnic background with versatile shades. Customizable stick foundations mix and match shades. With so many formulas and finishes available, you can achieve seamless coverage.

Bronzer and Blush Warm Up the Complexion

After achieving flawless coverage with concealer and foundation, use bronzer and blush to bring life back into the complexion. These warm tones create a glow from within that looks healthy and youthful.

Swirling bronzer along the hairline, below cheekbones and along the jawline sculpts the face. Bronzer can slim the appearance of the nose and define cheekbones. For sun-kissed warmth, apply more bronzer to the tops of cheeks. Use a large fluffy brush and blend well so bronzer looks natural.

Focus blush on the apple of the cheeks. Tap off excess and blend up towards the cheekbones for a lifted look. Pair pink or peach blush with bronzer for a fresh-faced glow. Multiple shades of blush can contour the face. Blush brings out the eyes and flatters all skin tones.

Bronzer and blush balance foundation and concealer to warm up the complexion. This adds back dimension that can be lost with full coverage. When applied properly, bronzer and blush frame the face for a healthy, youthful glow.

Eyeshadow Adds Depth and Contrast

Eyeshadow transforms the eyes and adds major visual interest. Soft neutral shadows make eyes appear larger and brighter. Bold color creates drama and intrigue. Carefully applied eyeshadow sculpts the eyes for a more defined shape.

Using a base primer evens out the eyelid and allows shadow to glide on smoothly. Layering light and dark shades of shadow adds depth and dimension. Blending the edges creates a polished smoky effect. To make eyes appear wider, sweep light shimmery shadow from lashline to brow bone.

Metallic and foil shadows are having a major moment. The high-shine effect draws light to the eyes for mesmerizing impact. coordinate shadow with your eye color to make them pop. Warm coppery browns flatter light eyes while jewel tone purples accentuate dark brown eyes.

No makeup look is complete without defining and darkening the upper and lower lash lines with liner. This makes lashes look thicker and frames the eyes. Smudgy kohl liner is sultry and smoky. A cat eye liner elevates any look. Eyeshadow builds impact and allure while opening up the eyes.

Mascara Lifts, Curls, Lengthens and Thickens Lashes

Curled, fanned out lashes complete any eye look and balance bold shadow or liner. Mascara coats each lash in dark pigment for major definition. Hold the mascara wand at the base of lashes and wiggle as you sweep up. This separates and coats lashes from root to tip.

Waterproof mascara thickens lashes without smudging or flaking - even in humidity. Layer mascara with a lash curler for eye opening, lifted lashes. Repeat the process on lower lashes to define the overall eye shape. Use the oft edge of the wand to darken lower lashes without mess.

For clump-free volume, apply multiple thin layers and let each coat dry in between. Starting mascara application in the center of the lashes and brushing outwards also thickens without clumping. Lengthening formulas have a tapered bristle brush that extends lashes.

Curling and defining lashes frames the eye shape and enhances eyeshadow. After eyeliner has defined the top and bottom lash line, mascara pulls the whole eye look together. Full, dark lashes are universally flattering and balance the brows. No eye look is complete without a few swipes of lash enhancing mascara.

Define and Shape Brows for Balance

Groomed, defined eyebrows are essential for facial symmetry and framing the eyes. Eyebrows provide balance to eye makeup. The brows are like the picture frame to the artwork that is your eyeshadow.

Use brow pencils, pomades or powders to define the shape and fill in any sparse areas of the brows. Brush brows upwards and outwards to fluff and blend. Tinted brow gels also coat hairs in color and groom brows in place all day.

The arch of the brow should begin just above the middle of your eye. Drawing a line straight up from the nostril through the inner corner of the eye provides a guide. Brush brows frequently straight up to see any gaps that need filling in.

Sharp microblading or brow lamination gives brows a temporary lift. Keep brows full but tidy by having them professionally threaded. Defined arches, feathered brows and fluffy brows are universally flattering shapes that enhance eyes. Frame your makeup look by keeping brows groomed.

Lipstick and Lip Gloss Finish the Look

No makeup routine is complete without the perfect lip shade. Lips instantly capture attention and wearing color shows you have made an effort with your look. Bare lips can appear washed out while color pumps up your mood and confidence.

Lipstick shades should complement your skin's undertone. Cool pinks, berries and mauves flatter those with cool undertones. Peachy nudes and brick reds accentuate warm golden undertones. Sheer glosses can suit all skin tones.

Line and define lips with liner a shade darker than your lipstick. This prevents feathering and keeps color in place. Matte liquid lipsticks are smudge-proof while creamy satin lipsticks avoid dryness. Conditioning lipsticks provide care along with vibrant color.

Layering gloss over lipstick adds dimension. Use a lip brush for precise application. Blotting then reapplying extends wear time. Keep lips exfoliated and moisturized so lipstick glides on smoothly.

The possibilities are endless when playing with lip shades. Tons of textures like lacquers, stains, frosts, metallics and velvets allow you to get creative. Lips draw attention so have fun with trendy shades.

Setting Spray and Powder Seal the Deal

Use setting powder and spray as the final step to set makeup in place all day. These products prevent transfer, shine breakthrough, smudges and wear.

Lightly dust setting powder over the t-zone to set concealer and absorb oil. Avoid powdering the high points of the face as this can make makeup look dull. Target just the oil prone areas.

Finish with setting spray misted all over the face. This melds powder and liquid products together. The spray also provides a hydration boost to makeup. Setting spray utilizes polymers that form a lightweight film over makeup to seal it in place.

Prep skin properly before makeup application by cleansing and moisturizing. Use a primer suited to your skin type as a base. Avoid going overboard with powder as this emphasizes dryness or texture. Setting spray brings back a radiant, skin-like finish.

Makeup Boosts Confidence

Research has shown that wearing makeup has a profound psychological impact beyond just enhancing appearance. Makeup boosts self-esteem, mood and confidence. Makeup routines provide time for self-care and creative expression. There is artistry in enhancing your natural beauty while still looking like yourself.

The confidence gained from looking your best propels personal and career advancement. Makeup allows you to constantly refine and reinvent your image. Play with the latest trends and colors for fun. Share tips and tricks with makeup enthusiasts. Watch online tutorials to keep expanding your skills.

Makeup is so much more than just enhancing features. The transformative power improves your outlook, energy and confidence. Makeup gives you the power to face daily challenges and opportunities with your best face forward!