I’m a Makeup-Free Mom

self insemination kit

Updated: Jan. 28, 2021

Originally Published: July 3, 2016

Recently, my three-year-old son, in his typical playful manner, trailed behind me as I went about my day. Out of nowhere, he exclaimed, “Mommy, please don’t paint your lips again, okay?”

Puzzled, I asked, “What do you mean?”

He replied, “Remember when we went to Grandma’s for Mother’s Day and you painted your lips red? Don’t do that again.”

I chuckled at his choice of words; he described my lipstick as “painting.” I could just imagine him picturing me rummaging through our arts and crafts supplies, grabbing a can of red paint, and slathering it on my lips—how bizarre and messy that would be!

His aversion to my lipstick likely stems from his picky nature. This little guy can’t even handle a bagel cut into halves instead of quarters; he craves routine and consistency—any deviation feels wrong to him.

This amusing exchange made me realize that he has never seen me wear makeup; in fact, he doesn’t even know what it is. I don’t consider myself a “no makeup mom,” but it appears that’s exactly what I am. Even before having kids, I was never one to pile on cosmetics. I’ve been fortunate with clear skin, and I always thought that adding foundation would only complicate things. During my pre-kid years, while teaching English at a university, I occasionally put on a little mascara and lipstick, but even that was hit or miss. Honestly, I only did it because I was 25 and wanted to appear more mature to my students.

I think I’ve never quite left that stage where trying on makeup feels like playing dress-up. Now, as a full-time mom juggling work from home, the thought of applying makeup seems pointless. I reserve it for rare occasions—like when attending events at my older son’s school, where I still feel like a kid at heart, and makeup gives me the illusion of adulthood for a few hours.

On most days, I live in comfy yoga pants, soft tees, and sweaters. A successful day for me means I’ve showered, my hair is down instead of in a messy bun, and I’m wearing a fresh pair of yoga pants. Whether I’m at home or out running errands, I present myself this way, even on trips to the library or grocery store.

Sometimes I see other moms at the park or during school pickup, impeccably dressed with styled hair, jeans, and stylish boots. They look fantastic, and I can’t help but feel a twinge of envy. I often wonder how they pull it off. Honestly, I struggle to find time to prepare lunch for myself, let alone spend time on my appearance. Eating is essential, so I make it a priority—along with feeding my kids, taking care of daily needs, and squeezing in a workout for a necessary dose of endorphins. I also can’t stand a messy house, so I tend to that, too.

With my life bustling with responsibilities, I have to prioritize fiercely, and looking good just doesn’t make the cut—so much so that it’s almost never on the list. If I were as dedicated to my appearance as I am to a clean bathroom, perhaps I would make it a priority. Maybe I should consider it.

My husband thinks I look great no matter what (bless his heart!), but I can’t help but wonder if wearing makeup more often could inject a bit of excitement into my life. Would it make me feel spunkier, more vibrant? Would taking a little time to beautify make my life feel less centered around my kids?

I suspect that as my children grow older, my focus on appearance may shift. There will be more opportunities to go out and dress up. I’ll have more time to take a shower and apply a bit of mascara without a toddler trying to snag my “paintbrush” out of my hand.

But for now, I embrace being a makeup-free mom. It works for me, and my kids—especially my opinionated little three-year-old—seem perfectly content with it.

For more parenting tips, check out this article on home insemination. If you’re curious about the process of artificial insemination, Make a Mom is an authority on the topic. And for those interested in family-building options, Resolve offers excellent resources.

Summary:

In this light-hearted reflection, Sarah Mitchell shares her experience as a makeup-free mom, revealing her son’s humorous take on her rare use of lipstick. Despite feeling envious of other moms who seem to effortlessly maintain their appearance, she embraces her busy lifestyle that prioritizes comfort and practicality. As she navigates motherhood, she wonders if incorporating makeup might add some fun and vibrancy to her life, but for now, she’s happy as she is.