In a world centered around both high beauty standards and self-love, the “right” amount of makeup is hard to perfect and achieve. Like so many other girls, I've been asked why I wear makeup daily, or have uncomfortably sat through countless conversations with other girls hating on religious makeup wearers. Yet, we live in a society where people such as Kylie Jenner and the Kardashians are praised for their makeup looks. I think it is sad that in a time when feminism is so strong, makeup shaming is still occurring.

Ever since I decided to experiment with makeup, I have not stopped. After countless YouTube videos, trips to Ulta and early mornings before school, I have realized how much I love my makeup routine and how much of an art and skill makeup actually is, especially since I have yet to master it.

It’s sad that when people see a girl wearing makeup at the gym or at the beach, they automatically judge her and think she is fake, vain or basic, but that is not always the case. Everyone has their insecurities and I am no different. I have always struggled with breakouts, my paleness and my permanent dark circles under my eyes, so foundation, BB cream and concealer have saved my life. Though I do not always wear a full face, I just about always have some type of product on. Truthfully, most of my friends, co-workers and classmates have yet to see me without makeup on - even if they have not realized it - and I am OK with that.

I am not a morning person, but waking up and transforming myself from clean-faced to made up is just part of my everyday routine, and I honestly like doing it. I am more confident and comfortable in my own skin with a face full of makeup. Through makeup, I can fully express myself and be me. Makeup is about feeling confident and, though we should feel confident and comfortable in our own skin, there is nothing wrong with a little help here and there. I know people who wear full faces of makeup daily and people who only wear makeup on special occasions. But despite the amount of makeup someone is wearing, no one should be criticized for wearing makeup to work, to the pool, to the beach, to the gym, to run errands or just around the house. It is their choice and their face.

Don't get me wrong; I admire and am a little envious of girls who can walk out of the house with a clean face, a little bit of concealer or a coat of mascara and feel confident and look beautiful. What I'm getting at is that everyone should worry about themselves and less about others. Do what you feel most comfortable with. If you want to cake a ton of makeup on, do it! Or if you want to wear only concealer, bronzer or nothing at all, go for it! Beauty and confidence are different for everyone, so don't try and change yourself to fit the current trend or standard. Just do you and be happy in your own skin!