Is This Too Much Makeup?

Elitism has many faces. Often when it’s at play, it isn’t obvious to the untrained eye. In a broader historical context, this is pretty consistent.

In the art of makeup, there are rules. They tend to pertain to light and dark/shadows and highlights.

Beyond some pretty concrete things about the way our eyes generally perceive light, we have styles, trends and preferences.

What we believe is beautiful is shaped by our upbringing, our idols, our experiences, the media we consume, and our first examples of beauty.

Having this view molded happens slowly over time, before we can even become conscious of these powerful but imperceptible influences.

In the beauty space, I’ve noticed it’s almost impossible for many enthusiasts to state these learned preferences without shaming or downplaying the alternatives.

The tone is “this is right and that is wrong”.

I’m starting to wonder, is this harmful?

When I think about who loves the styles and trends that are often scoffed at or looked down upon, I’m noticing that it’s usually marginalized people.

Doesn’t this sound familiar?

I’ve become more conscious of my own language, as I do believe sharing what we know and educating is important. At the same time, my intention is to do so without causing any harm.

Any standard that targets or excludes marginalized people should be always be examined.

Does it make us bad people for liking what we like? Absolutely not!

The question might be, does it make us complicit when treat those alternatives as if they’re a lesser option?

When I’m explaining something my hope is to inspire a lightbulb moment. It’s never to invalidate the other person’s experience.

I’m paying more attention to the way I communicate my ideas, since no one is immune to this learned behavior.

2020 has been an illuminating year. While we can easily spot the more obvious symptoms and side effects of an oppressive and pervasive system, can we begin to become aware of the more subtle ways in which we unwittingly participate?

Is there room for more grace and self analysis?