Klarrisa Arafa
It might seem second nature, but you may enjoy putting on makeup for more reasons than just the razzle and dazzle of it all. We did a little digging and found getting done up, quite literally, improves your mental health. So if someone ever questions your choice to stand in front of the mirror for 30 solid minutes, you can tell them it’s an act of self-care. Not only does applying cosmetics enhance natural features, and boost the brain's dopamine and oxytocin production, but it amps up self-confidence, too.
Are you curious how gliding on lipstick and sweeping blush across your cheeks can manage all that?
We’ve got explanations, read on.
Well, it turns out the science isn’t so complicated. Self-touch releases oxytocin, encouraging you to build an intimate self-bond. And that bond manifests in increased self-esteem, confidence, and lots of warm feelings.
To keep it short, encouraging a tiny rush of this neurotransmitter regulates emotions and releases a halo effect of positivity.
As you stand in front of the mirror concentrating, there’s also the bonus effect of focus. The mind stills as you think of nothing else but getting that cat eye just so. When thoughts slow, it can feel relaxing. The tension melts away. Far too often, people spend the majority of their days overwhelmed and worried. Most are hardly able to focus on the task at hand for any consequential length of time. In fact, studies are revealing the average person's attention span is shorter than that of a goldfish.
So, take your time applying your makeup. Enjoy a break from rumination or anticipation and step into your makeup flow. (And honestly, there’s no quicker way to ruin a look, complete with our alluring magnetic doe’s lashes than an overwhelmed-pinched-up brow.)
"Makeup flow", a term we just coined, describes the state of being totally focused on a singular task: getting dolled up! And by no means is it a selfish task, it’s invoking flow, culling your attention, releasing feel-good brain chemicals.
When all of your attention is given to the task at hand, it feels like an accomplishment. And just an FYI: slipping into a flow state has been described as experiencing true happiness.
If you ever needed a validating reason to slip away for some me-time, this is it.
Admiring the final look is also an important part of the process. Remember how we said doing your makeup can also encourage the release of dopamine? Well, this is the moment it happens. When you take a step away from the mirror, round those shoulders back, and catch yourself grinning at your reflection. Cha-cha-ching, the brain starts ah-buzzing with dopamine.
While this neurotransmitter doesn’t directly impact mood, it creates a strong reward response in the body. Rewards are well… rewarding, aren’t they?
(Whoever said vanity was a sin had no clue how taxing it is to be a strong, confident woman in today’s society.) Take the small wins. Do the things to improve your day and worry not about the rest. Plus, when you beat your face, it’s practically art therapy.