Without Makeup: Inner Beauty

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Beauty is something that many in this world strive to attain. One of the reasons that there are so many people with low self-esteem can be traced back to the early years of their development, a time when they come into their own and learn who they actually are. If not for the pressures of a “perfect” beauty, one could live a considerably happier life. The beauty of a women's face has been described throughout history; the term "beauty" has evolved over time and it is not until recently that woman have been told that they must have the latest trends in cosmetics or they will be overlooked. Personally, I believe that true beauty lies within a person’s soul.

In April of 2009, French Elle highlighted make-up free beauty. The April issue of French Elle features eight female European celebrities--including Eva Herzigova, Monica Bellucci, Sophie Marceau, and Charlotte Rampling--all without makeup and, perhaps even more revealing, all entirely without Photo shopping or retouching of any kind. Given the social effects of the “perfectly” beautiful images in contemporary media, Elle’s edition is truly noteworthy. The magazine’s headline "Stars Sans Fards" translates to “without rouge/makeup,” but it's a French saying that also suggests a sense of “openness. “This title could not be more apt. Model Herzigova, 36, and actresses Marceau, 42, and Bellucci, 44, all look refreshingly natural, relaxed, and vulnerable in a way American stars are seldom seen. In fact, what might be most striking about French Elle's pictorial is how it actually appears to embrace and celebrate the organic beauty of these famous faces.

Analyzing the relationship between feminism and cosmetics may not be new, but Chicago writer Rachel Rabbit White decided to swear...

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...n between makeup application and a person’s personality. No matter how you see the ads; whether it be on the television, online, or in one of the many magazines that they run their advertisements in; they can make you feel less than you are. Covergirl makeup and other brands as well, make you think that beauty is only attainable if you apply their products thoroughly to your face.

I don’t claim to be an expert by any means, but I have had many experiences with the harsh realities that the media would like everyone to believe. This makes me wonder when woman gave in to the whole idea that we need makeup to be a true woman of worth. If Elle can show us beauty without the additives then we should be able to be our own beautiful selves! Even when men are asked what makes a beautiful woman they were more focused on personality than the paint that was on their faces.

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