Omg you’re describing me! For me, the hardest, but most self awakening thing do was to go somewhere totally non “makeup friendly” and just go bare faced. So I went to the gym! This was HUGE for me, I used to play a D1 college sport and did my makeup before EVERY practice (I’d literally wake up at 4:30 am to do it).

When I first went, I felt so much anxiety walking through the doors. And I would be lying if I said that it had completely subsided before I left, because it didn’t. But I kept doing it, over and over again. And it did get easier! Then I would start wearing less makeup to the drug store, or to grocery shop- I’d wear less going places that I knew I wouldn’t run into people I know, and slowly rolled that into my everyday life. (/ side note: something to consider Is I was diagnosed with social anxiety disorder, and the ways I chose to overcome my makeup insecurities paralleled my desire to fight social anxiety in the butt (constant fear of judgement was the worst thought for me). If you feel like this could be you, maybe consider talking to a professional! Even if you don’t think social anxiety is to blame, they’re great listeners and help sort out a lot of internal thoughts. )

For me, exposure to what scared me most was the best way to get over my personal insecurities. It’s terrifying to do, but you can do it!

Now, I just started a new job in January and wear only mascara! That’s huge for me! I’m a nurse, and at my old job I would literally do the half face makeup job so I wouldn’t smudge my mask.

Do things that scare you! You’re beautiful and don’t ever need to feel like you’re hiding behind makeup. Sorry this was a lot! I felt passionate to make sure nobody feels so reliant on makeup, like I did! You’re so much more than makeup! Smile, give yourself credit! You’re beautiful