by Hafsa Zubair

Created on: May 11, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Society puts a heavy premium on looking good, and whether right or wrong, this is our reality. Not all of us are born with ravishing natural beauty, but using makeup is one of the most effective ways that millions of women can level this playing field. By utilizing the staggering array of cosmetic products available today we are able to bring out the best in our looks.

The staying power of makeup is demonstrated by the fact that it has been a woman's prerogative for centuries. History and literature are full of examples of various natural substances used to enhance beauty, with women darkening their eyes, and reddening the lips and cheeks to much the same effect as we do today. It is reasonable to assume that one of the main reasons for this was to appear attractive to men; by enhancing their femininity and appearing distinctly different from males, women aroused the interest and desire of the men around them.

Fast forward to the twenty-first century and makeup is more widely in demand than perhaps ever before in history; women all over the world from all socio-economic groups have access to a varied range of makeup products, and use them enthusiastically. Many of you will have heard a woman in your life say that she doesn't feel complete without her lipstick, mascara, or other favorite, essential cosmetic. If you are a woman yourself, regardless of your age, you most likely know the feeling; the use of makeup has strong psychological and emotional ties.

Makeup has very clear aesthetic benefits that are one of the main reasons for its use. When properly chosen and effectively applied, it can change a woman's appearance drastically. It can define her features, as happens when you use eyeliner or kohl to outline your eyes, instantly making them appear larger and more dramatic. It can hide imperfections both major and minor; any woman who has suffered from acne, or has a birthmark or other unnatural pigmentation/scarring will gratefully tell you what a blessing concealer and foundation is, while other women will look to even out their skin tones by covering dark under-eye shadows, freckles, redness, or just for an overall boost. Products that add color to our faces such as lipstick, lip gloss, blusher, bronzer, and colored eye shadows enhance natural prettiness and can make all the difference between a face perceived as plain and one that is considered attractive.

Of course we still want to look good for the men in our lives, but unlike the woman

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