Chapter 1: The Origins of Beauty Concepts

It all began with a plastic head.

In the 1970s, Mattel introduced a disembodied Barbie head, designed to promote a narrow view of beauty, complete with long blonde hair and a limited array of water-based cosmetics. This toy aimed to instill young girls with societal standards of beauty. However, the makeup only lasted about a week, leaving the hair styling as the lasting fun. The idea of replenishing the makeup? Uncertain.

This Barbie head was reminiscent of the Lite-Brite, which came with templates and an assortment of colored pegs that either didn’t fit or seemed to vanish without a trace.

When I was young, broken toys weren’t simply discarded. They were relegated to what we called the "Rat Room," a space filled with forgotten items that could possibly be useful someday. Whether it was a plastic head, a Lite-Brite missing pegs, or a stuffed rabbit with a single eye, everything had its place—just in case.

Back then, women who wore makeup faced judgment. Heavy makeup was synonymous with promiscuity. Yet today, countless individuals build careers around makeup application, showcasing its transformative power.

As a child, I struggled with my self-image. Overweight, bespectacled, and dealing with severe acne, my sole ambition was to conceal my flaws. Finding a foundation that could cover my blemishes felt like an endless quest, often resulting in a more pronounced appearance.

Accutane had just emerged as a treatment option, but the potential side effects were daunting, not to mention the cost. Eventually, my acne subsided, but the lingering scars—both physical and emotional—remained.

Now, I still search for makeup that complements my unique skin tone, but I believe I’ve finally found a concealer that works. When I apply it beneath a layer of foundation, I no longer feel like Quasimodo.

With makeup enhancing my appearance, I gain the confidence to make eye contact and engage with others. I glance at my reflection in every available mirror, feeling empowered to step outside and interact with the world.

Masks, however, pose a challenge for those with skin conditions like rosacea, exacerbating issues and creating a longing to use my extensive collection of cosmetics. While it may be difficult for others to see from a distance, I’m beginning to embrace my self-worth.

The first video titled "The Power of Makeup!!!" illustrates how makeup can dramatically alter one's appearance, demonstrating techniques that can take years off one’s face.

Chapter 2: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Makeup

The second video, "Miracle Balm! Is it Really a Miracle for Mature Skin?," reviews a product that promises to enhance skin health, specifically targeting mature skin concerns.