2300: Make-up is a Must

I forgot my make-up bag. I went to put my make-up on after Pilates and realized that I had left it at home. I felt out of sorts, and immediately thought my day had taken a turn for the worse. I felt gross and extremely self-conscious about my appearance. When I arrived at the office where I work and explained my “horrible” morning to the predominately male group there, one of them laughed out loud. He declared that make-up was ridiculous, unnecessary, and a marketing tool that targeted a woman’s self-esteem. I agreed with him that the idea of spending a considerable amount of money to put foreign substances on one’s face was absurd. However, I have no intentions of throwing my make-up away and never wearing it again.

It then occurred to me that this is one of the most brilliant PR and marketing campaigns in existence. Aside from covering up large scars, no woman really needs make-up. However, all of the commercials and magazines convince women that a certain brand of mascara or eye shadow will make her more attractive, and make her lifestyle easier. Most women are convinced they need make-up to be beautiful. Although make-up is a ritual in our culture supported by decades of practice, the concept still amazes me.

I am impressed that so many different brands of cosmetics can co-exist harmoniously, each targeting a specific niche. Each company has successfully convinced women that their product is necessary to enhance their well-being. Advertising campaigns are so successful because every woman has insecurities, and most campaigns give the message that make-up will diminish these insecurities. Women want to feel good about themselves, so they buy make-up. I have to agree with the men in my office. This is a little ridiculous.