Prepare for a rant-like article – however, I hope it’s one many women can identify with.

Recently it’s come to my attention that a lot of shots have been fired at women wearing makeup or women who are “high maintenance”. As it if it weren’t enough that women are already criticized when they’re bare faced and vulnerable, I’m always hearing nonsense – from primarily the opposite gender – about how they like “natural girls” or that girls who wear makeup are “fake” or “try too hard”.

Honestly, sometimes I just think males are jealous that being able to cover up a zit is not an option for them (at least not their “norm”). Caring about the way you look is a whole lot more than just skin deep for a lot of women. That being said, being high maintenance means different things to different people.

This article is specifically geared towards the benefits of investing time, money and energy in the way one looks – and why it’s hardly something to illicit such negative remarks from onlookers.

Conversely, if you’re not into beauty products and cosmetics, there is nothing wrong with that either! As long as you’re comfortable in the skin you’re in, there’s no reason why somebody should be dictating what you do or do not do with yourself.

Whether it’s investing in skin care, your weekly nail appointments or regular blowouts, there’s absolutely no reason you should feel sorry about it. Will they think you’re too “high maintenance”? Who cares?! Especially when you feel this good about yourself… Here’s why you should never feel bad about your beauty obsession.

1. It boosts your confidence.

It doesn’t even have to be a lot of makeup or a huge blowout to make you feel like a million bucks. Even just some concealer and a flatiron on your strays can be the difference between gazing downwards as you walk and keeping your head held high. It’s just the way you feel!

2. You are investing in yourself.

People may think it’s frivolous, but you know what I think? You’re focusing on things that make you feel and look good – and that’s hardly something to feel ashamed of. While it’s essential you spend your savings on experiences as opposed to material goods, when these treats make you feel this much better, wouldn’t it be worth it? I would be more concerned if you were spending money on frivolous and questionable habits.

3. You are practicing self-care.

A lot of times, people think being healthy just means eating salad and working out 7 times a week. False, those two things alone don’t matter and will not make a positive difference in your life.

How do I know this? Because there was a short period of time where I ate only “clean foods” to the point of obsession and worked out two times a day. I had no social life, only cared about how many calories I burned, and all my other hobbies fell to the wayside – and yes, getting done up and experimenting with your appearance is certainly a hobby.

Now, while I eat healthy 80% of the time and workout 6 days a week, I find other things in life like pampering myself to be just as important and integral to how I look and feel.

Whether your definition of self-care is dry brushing, teeth whitening or monthly facials is up to you and your budget, but it’s something you shouldn’t feel sorry about or let fall to the wayside.

4. It helps halt your bad habits.

This is something I have certainly found to be true – but is surprisingly one of the lesser recognized benefits of getting done up – especially if you’ve paid with your time or money.

Whether your vice is picking at your skin or chomping on your cuticles spending the money on a good manicure or your morning perfectly applying your foundation and contour will help keep your paws OFF. Who wants to waste resources anyways, right?

As someone who does both, I absolutely know that biting my nails or cuticles is absolutely off limits after a pro has just spent time trying to perfect them.

5. It all puts you in a good mood.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve certainly never been mad after a good facial.

When you feel good, you also just feel… nicer? Perhaps this isn’t the universal truth, but many can identify with this. Maybe it’s the confidence or that it’s always a good day when you have time to put your makeup on in the AM, but something about the ensuing interactions you have with people always feels more pleasant.

Instead of wanting to slink away from social interactions slowly (but surely), all of a sudden being out and about is kind of… fun?! And when you feel good about yourself, other people can tell and are instantly drawn to you.

So, there you have it. My top 5 reasons why you should never feel sorry for being a high maintenance gal, for spending your hard-earned money and extra time on skincare or makeup, and for wanting to look good! If that’s a punishable crime in your circle, you should rethink who you’re hanging out with.

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