A few years back, before social media giants started their stock market journey, I found myself in an intimate green room with the COO of a major tech company, Ellen Rivers. We were at the Natural History Museum, just before her significant presentation to the advertising world. I had penned an article about how social media had positively impacted my young child’s life, leading Ellen to invite me as an example of the good that can come from these platforms. The energy in that room was electric, and Ellen looked absolutely radiant in her chic dress, exuding confidence, all while sporting a completely makeup-free face.
In that moment, I wanted to leap up and shout, “Yes! You rock, girl!” But then, the assistant entered, clipboard in hand, calling her for hair and makeup. Ellen’s expression shifted, and she sighed, “It’s absurd, isn’t it? So unjust.” The other speakers that day were predominantly male, none of whom were ever called for makeup touch-ups. We exchanged thoughts on how unfair it is that women are expected to spend hours on their appearance just to be taken seriously. A man can show up without a hint of makeup and face no judgment; a woman, however, is often perceived differently—her lack of makeup can lead to misconceptions about her professionalism and capability.
We both acknowledged the complexity of this issue, realizing it would require a broader cultural shift that mainstream women’s magazines wouldn’t dare tackle. I had attempted to pitch similar stories to various publications, knowing well they were too reliant on advertisers like L’Oreal and Maybelline to bite the hand that feeds them. We’ve been trapped in this cycle of cosmetic expectations for far too long, bombarded by tips and tricks for enhancing our looks instead of embracing our natural selves.
My own journey with makeup began in my teenage years, influenced by friends and societal norms. I remember the summer after seventh grade, trying my first eyeliner application under the guidance of a friend. Despite hating the feel of makeup on my skin, I felt pressured to conform. It wasn’t until a transformative experience in college that I had a revelation when looking in the mirror. I asked myself, “Who are you trying to fool?” After that moment, I washed off all my makeup, feeling renewed and liberated.
Since then, I have mostly opted for a barefaced look whenever possible. I’m writing this without a speck of makeup on, and recently, I even went on a blind date just as I am. If someone cannot accept me without makeup, then they don’t deserve my time. Of course, I still adhere to societal norms for specific events—like job interviews or formal occasions—out of respect for the situations. However, part of me wishes that these standards didn’t dictate how I present myself to the world.
As I approach my fifties, I find well-meaning friends suggesting I should consider using some makeup, especially as I navigate life after a long marriage. But I stand firm. I may not be a Hollywood star, but if the personal is political, then my choice to go barefaced can help spark a change. I was recently inspired by a conversation featuring influential women discussing the double standards of appearance in politics. It was refreshing to see someone like Christine Adams confidently embracing her natural appearance.
It doesn’t need to lead to a revolution; it simply allows those of us tired of makeup to declare “no more.” So, the next time I run into Ellen, rather than being interrupted for touch-ups, we might just enjoy a candid conversation about the joys of being women today, where we can confidently step onto life’s stage without a mask.
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Summary
In this reflection, the author discusses her journey toward embracing a makeup-free lifestyle, inspired by a conversation with a successful COO who also goes barefaced. The piece critiques societal expectations for women to wear makeup and highlights the double standards faced by women in professional settings. By sharing her personal experiences and insights, the author encourages women to feel empowered in their choice to go without makeup.