| To put it simply, makeup works. Its a tool we can use to our advantage. More than a method of covering complexion imperfections, its a form of communication, a means of telegraphing to the world who we are and what we think.
Makeup is part of our cultural vernacular; to wear it well reads as being confident, in control, and aware of social norms, says Doe Lang, PhD, a psychotherapist and life coach in NYC and author. In fact, not to wear it in certain situations can be construed as a sign of hostility or anti social behavior. Its like learning to use a computer: we can resist it but then we may feel increasingly isolated.
Not to equate the mastery of makeup with learning Lotus Notes, but it can be a facilitator of professional success. To avoid makeup can be self-defeating, says Debbie Then, PhD, a Los Angeles psychologist who focuses on self-esteem and appearance issues. Just how self defeating?
In one study, conducted by Judith Waters, PhD, professor of psychology, eight women were photographed in their own everyday makeup and then in makeup applied professionally. Either a before or after photo was attached to a resume presenting them as a potential job candidate and taken to 500 corporate employment agencies and human resources executives.
The resumes with photos in which the women were wearing professional makeup were all relegated to a salary range 20% higher. The message was unmistakably clear, says Waters. The results showed that it pays to look good. The women in this study were not made up like cover models but had a natural look.
The most universally accepted makeup is the most natural looking. When it mimics a healthy, natural look it makes you appear confident and happy because you are enhancing your own beauty; youre not trying to change or hide yourself, says Lang.
Successful women have developed the cosmetic equivalent of the power suit, says Waters. Its a polished but not overdone look. Its a very balanced face.
Without equivocation these psychologists insist that using a little makeup to put your best self forward is a kind of no risk deposit in the happiness bank. Wouldnt you agree that that seems like a very sound investment?
From Oprah Magazine: March 2003 pages 12 | 
