Makeup My Confidence

Before I get in too deep with products, do’s and don’ts, tips and tricks, and all things beauty, I’d like to get real.  As in: real, inner beauty.  Beyond the eyeliner and lip gloss to the women we are first thing in the morning.  To the happy, confident, warrior goddess inside. 

I’ve always struggled with self-image.  Being teased relentlessly as a child certainly helped; for my hairy arms and legs, unibrow, big nose and glasses, I was often the subject of unwanted attention.  As did the over-eager parents always pushing me to achieve, and my willingness to please, all had damaging effect on my tender psyche.  On days when I don’t feel my best, I still look in the mirror and see those big round glasses reflected at me and all is lost.  Learning to love myself, inside and out, is a daily battle; one I plan on winning.

 I love makeup for its transforming power, and transform me it has.  Now, I can pluck, line and apply like a pro.  In my time as a beauty professional, I’ve had the pleasure of teaching my lessons to each and every lovely that sits in my chair.  Acting as therapist and magician, all in one, I spread my message of inner beauty, and ducklings are transformed to swans.  I’ve encountered women meek and downtrodden turned sex goddess with some mascara and lipstick!  We all have the power to change the world; we just have to believe so. 

Like What You See

Accept the beautiful face in the mirror.  Forget your flaws (we’ve all got ‘em) and focus on the positives.  Flaunt your features.  Got great bone structure, big eyes, pouty lips?  Learn the power of makeup and play them up!  I’m not saying you have to wear a face full, but a little blush goes a long way…

Affirm

Remember that SNL skit in the 90’s Daily Affirmations?  “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me!”  I think he was on to something.  Meditate, journal, sing loud, and be proud!  Do whatever it is that makes you feel good; exercise, be creative, get outdoors, something constructive, please. Surround yourself with good people and don’t let those with negativity in your inner circle.  Confront downers head-on.

Green With Envy

Covet your best friend’s body, sister’s hair, model legs?  LET IT GO!  The grass is not always greener.  Those big breasts you wish you had just may get in the way of your life style.  (Not to mention the inevitable back problems.)  If you have a body fitness goal, then work to meet it and don’t let anything get in your way.  Of course, some things are out of your control and you have to accept those.  Grace is an underrated quality. 

Scalpel Please?

Plastic surgery,as an elective, can be a risk not worth taking.  (Remember Kanye’s mom?)  All surgeries have their risks and for some, an adverse reaction to anesthesia can be impossible to predict.  My advice is to tread lightly when considering a little nip or tuck.  Sure, there are new procedures for non-invasive face/ brow lifts, liposuction and fillers to your heart’s content, but going “under the knife” is another story.   I absolutely draw the line at altering one’s appearance drastically, especially to resemble another. (Calling Heidi Montag!)  I could understand shaving the bump off the nose, reducing sagging breasts, or some equally minor alterations to bolster one’s confidence, but cannot imagine the self-loathing involved in resorting to such measures as undergoing multiple, invasive procedures.  (You too, Michael Jackson) Those people, in my opinion, have more money than sense, and would benefit greatly from therapy.  And trust me, therapy is worth more than any lift, suck, or tuck; the effects are permanent.