Monday Musings: Semi-Permanent Treatments vs. Traditional Makeup
I was having lunch with my two mentors yesterday and we were talking about lash lifts. One of them said that she never wants to try them because of the maintenance required, and the other said she actually got them once, then had them removed the next day. It was too weird not to be able to touch her eyes whenever she wanted! Personally, while a lot of brands have offered to give me a lash lift for free, I’ve never had them done. Like my friend, the labor and cost required to maintain them is beyond what I want to shoulder for myself.
That doesn’t make me better than anyone. It’s just not for me. I’d rather spend 6-10 minutes a week or a total of 24-40 minutes a month using eyelash curler and brushing on mascara
I notice that women my age like to spend on semi-permanent treatments like botox, fillers, lash lifts, radio frequency sessions, lasers, and eyebrow tattoo (among many other things) so that they can wake up like a conventionally beautiful woman everyday. But is it worth it?
This question doesn't have a one-size-fits-all answer. It all boils down to personal choice and what makes each individual feel confident and happy. For some, the convenience and time saved by opting for semi-permanent treatments is invaluable. They relish the idea of 'waking up ready' and appreciate the boost these treatments give to their self-esteem. It’s about the joy of looking in the mirror and feeling perpetually put-together.
On the other hand, there's a charm and a sense of ritual in the daily beauty routine. For those like me, who prefer the traditional route of makeup, there’s a certain satisfaction in the process. It’s a time for oneself, a moment of transformation that is both therapeutic and empowering. The act of applying mascara, the careful art of drawing on eyebrows – these are not just about appearances, but also about the pleasure and control in crafting one's image.
In the grand scheme of things, whether you choose to embrace these semi-permanent beauty treatments or stick to the more traditional beauty routines, it’s important to remember that beauty is incredibly personal and subjective. What works for one may not work for another, and that’s perfectly okay. The key is to make choices that align with your lifestyle, your budget, and most importantly, your comfort and happiness.
As we age, our perception of beauty evolves. What we valued in our twenties may not hold the same allure in our thirties, forties, and beyond. And that’s the beauty of it – no pun intended. We’re all on a journey of self-discovery and self-expression, and how we choose to present ourselves to the world is a unique part of that journey.
Whether it's a lash lift, botox, or just a good old mascara wand, the decision should be about what makes you feel the most like yourself. After all, the most beautiful thing a woman can wear is confidence. It doesn’t matter where it’s from.
