Unhindered Conversations: The Power of Makeup in Times of Crisis

At first glance, makeup can seem like just another step in getting ready: a swipe of lipstick, a dab of concealer, a brushed-up brow. But for many women, the power of makeup lies in how it helps them face the day. In moments of stress, change, or self-doubt, it becomes a ritual for feeling grounded and confident.

All Things Beauty speaks with Gaby Alegre and Mariane Perez – two women with different approaches to beauty, but both turn to makeup as a game-changer in their day-to-day.

Ever heard of the lipstick effect? It’s a theory that suggests people tend to indulge in small luxuries, like beauty products, during periods of crisis as a way to cope. This was evident during the Great Depression, post-9/11, and even economic recessions. In the last decade, many have found comfort in simple beauty rituals. These small acts brought care, comfort, and a sense of normalcy when the world felt anything but.

Fast forward to today, many modern, working Filipinas continue to face everyday challenges: waking up feeling meh, stepping into unfamiliar spaces, or simply needing a quick boost of confidence. In these moments, the power of makeup lies in it being more than just a beauty tool.

“Putting on makeup is the few minutes I get to set aside in my morning just for myself,” begins Gaby Alegre, a development worker who braves the daily traffic to go to the office every day. “I feel more ready to face the day when I do my daily beauty routine, like putting on sunscreen and doing my brows.”

“I think whether we wear makeup or not is a personal decision,” says beauty writer and entrepreneur Mariane Perez. “We all just have to do what we feel comfortable and happy with – and what will make us feel good.”

She adds: “I also love how makeup is truly an art form and how it has become a way for people to bond or connect, sharing favorite products or ingenious hacks we’ve learned. A lot of us watch makeup tutorials on TikTok or other social media channels, and it has empowered us to be more experimental.”

Are there psychological effects of wearing makeup? A 2021 study cites how “makeup boosts women’s feelings of acceptance, respect, and confidence towards themselves.” It gives women the extra oomph so they’re more “comfortable and outgoing, expressing themselves and sharing their thoughts freely.”

“When I am feeling a bit blah, putting on a bit of makeup does lighten my mood,” reveals Mariane. “And of course, for more important or high-profile occasions, my makeup really ties my whole look together as well.”

“Plus, having makeup on when meeting people helps me feel confident, and that allows me to put my best foot forward,” Mariane adds. “I do take time and effort to get ready, and do my hair and makeup, but that eventually frees me mentally from thinking about whether I look ok or not. It allows me to focus more on doing my work, whether it is conducting an interview or attending a social event.”

These daily rituals, no matter how small or simple, help set the tone and your mood for the day. And that feeling of readiness starts even before makeup touches your face. Beyond makeup, a complete beauty routine can make you feel like your best self.

Start with essentials like POND'S Bright Miracle Ultimate Clarity Day Serum for clear, glowing skin – no full face required. Complement this with soft, manageable hair from Sunsilk Smooth and Manageable Shampoo and a fresh, ready-for-anything smile thanks to closeup Multivitamins+ toothpaste.

Likewise, makeup serves as a pick-me-up for Gaby on regular days when she’s not feeling her best. “On the more challenging days, or when I feel down, fixing my brows and putting on lipstick makes me feel a bit more prepared,” she shares.

Outside of work, Gaby is also a beginner pole dancer and aerialist and has recently completed her recital performance. It's a new thing she’s picked up and learned this year – a bold, brave move that she’s taken on for herself.

“For my part in the dance, I had to look like a dead doll from afar. That was the concept,” she explains. “It was my first time performing and wearing that kind of stage makeup! The thick lashes, ultra-pink cheeks, and contour helped me feel and play the part well. It completed the dead dancing doll fantasy.”

For Gaby, putting on makeup is one way to explore different sides of herself. “It lets me step into whatever persona I want – whether it’s just to look put together or to become a character in a dance class,” she says. “Lately, I’ve been inspired by drag queens and their incredible makeup transformations.”

Ultimately, makeup is what you make of it. In moments of uncertainty, the power of makeup lies in how it helps you look and feel good. A few minutes with your go-to products – whether it’s colored eyeliner or your MLBB lippie – can shift your mindset and set the tone for your day. And if it reminds you of what you can do, even when things feel tough, that’s real power.