Women wear make-up for a variety of reasons. Some want to look good for men; some want to look good for other women; and some just want to look good for themselves.

Only the very young can get away with a naked face. As soon as a woman starts to take pride in herself or reaches a certain age, make-up improves her look.

Looking in the mirror first thing in the morning can bring forth a disgusted sigh, while looking in the mirror after putting on make-up will cause an approving nod.

For some women putting on make-up is a daily routine. Before going to work they 'put on their face' and feel ready to face the day. On the train, on the street and especially around the office, they will come in contact with other women, well groomed women, and being groomed themselves makes them feel equal.

Other women chose to wear make-up to hide imperfections. Whether it's a scare, blemishes, bags under eyes, or wrinkles, a good concealer and foundation can be miracle workers. Suddenly they have a more even, smoother complexion and a silkier skin.

Especially pale women wear make-up to give their skin some colour. Or as they say 'Without my make-up I look like death warmed up'.

Foundation improves the look of skin. Eye make-up defines eyes and lashes. Bronzer puts a bit of colour in cheeks and the most important detail, the lipstick makes a face come alive.

Not too many women wear make-up around the house. Why? Because there is nobody to judge them; nobody to compare them with others. As soon as a woman has to leave the house though, she will check her look in the mirror and at least brush on some lipstick. This single action can make her look and feel better.

And that is really what it's all about. The cosmetics companies direct their ads for their products to making women feel good about themselves. Make-up makes them look younger, more beautiful, more sexy.

They sexy part especially appeals to younger women. What girl doesn't want to look sexy for her boyfriend? Attract attention to her smouldering eyes and kissable lips?

Older women wear make-up because they refuse to 'let themselves go'. Made-up and groomed they may not look like twenty something anymore, but with the right colours and the right touch they can look sophisticated.

With make-up on women feel ready to face the day.

When we look good, we feel good.

Learn more about this author, Conny Manero.
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