“Mom, why do you wear makeup? Is it to look prettier?” my 8-year-old son asked as I prepared for a family gathering. I paused—this was one of those pivotal moments where my response could shape his understanding of beauty and self-worth. I needed to choose my words carefully.
“Yes, sweetie. I wear makeup because I enjoy it, and yes, I think it makes me feel prettier.”
While a child development expert might not have advised this, it was the truth. I wear makeup for various reasons, and I’d be dishonest if I claimed that wanting to appear more attractive wasn’t one of them. My son will grow up in a world flooded with beauty advertisements promoting the idea that makeup can enhance one’s appearance; denying that I wear it for that reason would simply be misleading.
From seventh grade on, I have embraced the identity of a girl who loves makeup. After struggling with acne as a teen, I discovered the confidence that came with covering it up. I vividly remember my mother taking me to the local drugstore to find a foundation that matched my skin tone. That small act made a significant difference in how I felt about myself, allowing me to focus on school and friendships instead of fretting over blemishes.
Over time, that gratitude evolved into a genuine appreciation for high-quality cosmetics. I find joy in exploring stores like Sephora, searching for products that uplift my mood and enhance my appearance. It’s simply part of who I am.
While I respect the perspectives of mothers who choose not to wear makeup—believing it sends a strong message that beauty standards don’t define us—I don’t think my choice to wear makeup diminishes my role as a confident mother. My son sees me prioritize self-care, which teaches him that it’s essential to do things that make us feel empowered and happy.
I also understand that some moms feel they lack the time to apply makeup, and that’s perfectly valid. Everyone has different priorities, and mine just happens to include makeup. My routine is quick—under ten minutes from start to finish—and I even managed to squeeze it in shortly after giving birth to both of my children. It’s a choice that reflects my values, not a measure of my worth as a parent.
Makeup, like any other passion or hobby, is about personal choice. Just as I know individuals who dedicate time to reading, training for marathons, or enjoying outdoor activities, I see my makeup routine as equally valid. It’s not something to feel ashamed of.
And while I embrace my feminist identity, my decision to wear makeup is for my satisfaction alone. I support makeup-free moms wholeheartedly, but if you’re a mom who enjoys makeup, that’s fantastic too. Choosing to wear it or not is simply that—a choice.
If you’re interested in exploring family-building options, check out this excellent resource from Resolve. For those considering at-home insemination, you might want to read more about the process at this link. Also, for parents navigating similar journeys, you can find authoritative information on this topic here.
In summary, being a makeup-wearing mom is about embracing personal choice and confidence. It’s not a statement about beauty standards but rather an expression of self-love and empowerment. Whether you wear makeup or not, it’s essential to recognize that both paths are equally valid.