As of a year or so ago, I had no clue what No Makeup November was, but thought since males had No Shave November that women should do something too. In my mind, that is when I started No Makeup November. I started it with the idea of empowering women to prove to themselves and others in society that we are much better than the makeup we are taught to plaster on our faces in order to be deemed as "beautiful" in society's eyes. Little did I know that someone was way ahead of me and had already created a webpage with my message along with an even bigger and better one.

No Makeup November was originally created by a nonprofit group in order to bring attention a very important issue that has been unfortunately growing over the years: sex slavery. According to their website nomakeupnovember.org, "Over 20.9 million adults and children are victims of sexual servitude and forced labor". They also say that out of all of those people, "only 0.4% have been identified". With these staggering statistics, this makes this one of the "fastest growing criminal enterprises" around. Participating in this movement is important in order to spread the message that this needs to end. The only way these statistics can be brought to the attention of many is by all of us taking a stand.

So, this November stay away from the makeup cupboard. Do yourself a favor by giving your skin a break and help spread a very important message all at the same time. Strip off the pounds of makeup and stop using Photoshop for 30 days. Now, you may be feeling a little uncomfortable and that's unfortunately normal. Society has taught us all to not feel comfortable in our own skin. Over-Sexualization and Photoshop in media has shown us that without these things we can't be truly beautiful, but that is far from being true. You are beautiful just the way you are; every curve, freckle, wrinkle, stretch mark, and blemish. You are amazing, strong, and naturally beautiful and it is time to show the world that as well. Empower yourself while being a voice for the 20.9 million people who can't have one.

This November, post your selfies on social media with the hashtag #nomakeupnovember and join with many other women who are raising awareness as well. Share the news of what the movement really is about; be the voice for those who can't speak up. If you would like more information visit www.nomakeupnovember.org to see stories and read up on more of the staggering statistics. Remember: 30 days, no makeup, no filters or Photoshop, gain confidence, love yourself, and spread the word.