Many women start learning the art of makeup application early in life. For countless individuals, beauty and cosmetics are deeply connected. This knowledge is often gained by watching mothers, aunts, or older sisters applying makeup in front of a mirror before they head out for the day. Recent data points out that beauty carries special importance within the Latina community, making us prominent consumers of beauty products.
I have long been fascinated by how women transform makeup application into an art form: starting with a primer, layering foundation and concealer, blending blush high on the cheekbones, and selecting just the right lipstick for a vibrant touch.
I still remember the thrill of anticipation I felt as a child, eager to learn to use the beauty tools I saw on telenovelas (who could forget Barbara Mori’s striking looks in “Rubí”?). In essence, I was excited to experience the empowerment that comes from it!
However, growing up in a strict Mexican household meant my mother often warned my sister and me against using makeup and other things she viewed as leading us to vanity.
My mother never wore heavy makeup. Still, my sister and I would surreptitiously dabble with eyeshadows and mascara. The first time our mother spotted us wearing cobalt blue eyeshadow as preteens, her reaction was one of shock, and she immediately made us remove it. Each morning, she left for work with just the faintest touch of lipstick, asserting that was all that was necessary.
For many Latinas, however, makeup isn’t just a hobby – it’s a part of our identity
There’s a reason why many of us Latinas find ourselves lingering in front of the mirror – makeup boosts our confidence. Just as a perfectly chosen outfit can elevate our mood, makeup can enhance our self-esteem. However, one should not assume that makeup is the only component of our beauty.
This was a misunderstanding I held for quite some time as I strived to remain humble and “good” due to my upbringing. I refrained from appreciating the qualities that made me unique, fixating instead on perceived flaws that seemed insurmountable. I had no idea how to manage my frizzy hair or which products could help lessen my acne scars.
For an extended period, I used makeup to cover what I didn’t want to acknowledge. Eventually, I realized I had been using the wrong foundation shade, which only drew attention to my skin’s texture. This led me to avoid makeup altogether until I established a skincare regimen that allowed me to genuinely smile at my reflection.
It’s safe to say that my initial encounters with personal care products were less than ideal. Once I learned how to use them correctly and accepted the attributes I had previously viewed as imperfections, my interest in makeup was reignited.
After spending most of my teenage years only using eyeliner and entering my twenties brimming with insecurities, my journey toward self-acceptance became essential.
Now, as I approach 30, I am finally embracing the chance to experiment with different makeup styles. I even dedicated extra moments each morning to style my hair. What once served as a way to hide from what I didn’t want to face has now evolved into a wellspring of confidence, empowering me to face the day.
Those 20 minutes I spend in front of the mirror every day before work are precious
This time allows me to affirm myself as I apply eyeliner along my lashes and blend soft, coral-pink hues onto my cheeks. I remind myself that I am capable and powerful, even when the day takes an unexpected turn.
I am gradually refining my makeup application skills—just don’t inquire about bronzer and highlighter yet; I’m still mastering those!
That said, while my mom would assert that makeup is unnecessary, she has a valid point. However, she may have had deeper insights to share, which I hope to enrich with this perspective.
Always bear in mind that your beauty exists whether you wear makeup or not. And if you didn’t have the chance to learn about makeup application from your mother or sister, there’s no need for shame.
You can be your own greatest teacher, just as you are your own best supporter! You are incredible, regardless of where you find yourself in life right now. Let’s step into the next chapter feeling and looking like queens!
Image Source: Vladimka production / Shutterstock
