Makeup hides pain

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The Roman philosopher Plautus wrote: “A woman without paint is like food without salt.”

Makeup is often seen as a tool for enhancing beauty, a way to add a splash of color or sculpt a face. But for many, it's so much more. It's a shield, a mask, a form of armor against the world. Beneath layers of foundation and concealer, a different story unfolds—one of sorrow, struggle, and emotional pain.

​We've all been there: getting ready for work or a night out, meticulously applying our makeup to create a flawless look. Perhaps we've just had an argument, received bad news, or are simply feeling overwhelmed. The act of putting on makeup becomes a meditative ritual, a way to distract ourselves from the turmoil within. Each stroke of the brush, each dab of the sponge, helps to build a facade of normalcy. We are, in effect, painting on a brave face, hoping that the vibrant lipstick or perfectly winged eyeliner will convince both others and ourselves that everything is okay.

​This isn't about vanity; it's about survival. Makeup can be a quiet act of rebellion against our own suffering. It's a way to reclaim a sense of control when our world feels like it's spinning out of control. The carefully constructed look we present to the world is a silent promise that we will get through this, no matter how much we hurt. It's the silent tear hidden by a coat of mascara, the shaky hand steadied by a compact mirror.

​The next time you see someone with a perfectly made-up face, remember that their smile might be hiding a story of pain. That seemingly effortless beauty might be their way of finding strength, a daily reminder that even on the toughest days, they can still face the world.

Picture Credit: The Guardian