The Science Behind Why Choosing Makeup Can Enhance Your Features

Makeup has been used for centuries as a tool to enhance one's natural features and create a desired aesthetic. From ancient Egyptians' use of kohl eyeliner to modern-day contouring techniques, the application of cosmetics has been an integral part of many cultures' beauty practices. But what is the actual science behind how makeup can improve the appearance of our facial features?

In the last decade, researchers have delved deeper into the psychological and physiological mechanisms that explain makeup's ability to highlight and accentuate our best assets. Through a variety of studies, we now have a much clearer understanding of the specific ways that cosmetics can shape our perceptions of facial structure, symmetry, and overall attractiveness.

Let's take a closer look at the most recent scientific insights into the transformative power of makeup.

Enhancing Facial Symmetry

One of the key ways that makeup can enhance facial features is by creating the illusion of greater facial symmetry. Numerous studies have shown that facial symmetry is a highly desirable trait, as it is often associated with youth, health, and genetic fitness.

A 2019 study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that small asymmetries in the face, such as uneven eyebrows or a slightly crooked nose, can be minimized through strategic makeup application. The researchers had participants rate the attractiveness of faces with varying degrees of asymmetry, both with and without makeup. They discovered that makeup application significantly improved perceptions of facial symmetry, even for faces with moderate asymmetries.

This effect is primarily achieved through the skillful use of highlighting, contouring, and shading techniques. By strategically applying lighter and darker shades of makeup, a skilled makeup artist can subtly reshape the appearance of the nose, cheeks, and jawline to create a more harmonious, balanced look.

For example, using a highlighter on the high points of the face (such as the cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and cupid's bow) can make these features appear more pronounced and prominent. Meanwhile, applying a slightly darker contouring shade in the hollows of the cheeks, along the sides of the nose, and under the jawline can subtly slim and reshape these areas.

This interplay of light and shadow tricks the eye into perceiving a more symmetrical, proportionate facial structure, even if the underlying bone structure is somewhat asymmetrical.

Highlighting and Accentuating Specific Features

In addition to creating an overall impression of facial symmetry, makeup can also be used to selectively highlight and accentuate individual facial features. This is particularly useful for drawing attention to one's best assets or compensating for perceived flaws.

A 2021 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology explored the impact of different makeup techniques on perceptions of facial features. The researchers had participants rate the attractiveness of faces before and after the application of various makeup looks, focusing on specific features like the eyes, lips, and complexion.

Their findings showed that certain makeup applications could significantly enhance the perceived attractiveness of specific facial features. For example, the use of eyeliner, mascara, and eyeshadow was found to make the eyes appear larger, more defined, and more alluring. Meanwhile, the strategic application of lip liner and lipstick could make the lips appear fuller and more sensual.

Similarly, techniques like color correcting, concealing, and applying foundation and powder can help create a flawless, radiant complexion, minimizing the appearance of blemishes, dark circles, and other perceived imperfections.

This selective feature enhancement is thought to work by drawing the viewer's attention to the features that the individual wants to highlight, while subtly downplaying areas they may be less confident about. By accentuating their best assets, people can feel more self-assured and attractive.

Altering Perceptions of Age and Maturity

Another fascinating way that makeup can enhance facial features is by altering perceptions of age and maturity. A 2020 study published in the British Journal of Psychology found that makeup application can make people appear both younger and more mature, depending on the specific techniques used.

The researchers had participants rate the apparent age and maturity of faces with and without makeup. They discovered that the use of foundation, powder, and concealer to create a more flawless, "airbrushed" complexion tended to make the faces appear younger and more youthful. Conversely, the strategic application of darker, more dramatic eye and lip makeup created the impression of greater maturity and sophistication.

This effect is thought to be related to the way that makeup can subtly modify the visual cues associated with youth and age. Smooth, even skin tone and the minimization of fine lines and blemishes are typically associated with younger faces, while bold, defined features are often seen as markers of maturity and experience.

By selectively enhancing or downplaying these visual signals, makeup artists can manipulate perceptions of the wearer's age and overall level of maturation. This can be particularly useful for individuals who want to appear more youthful or more experienced, depending on the desired impression.

Increasing Perceived Attractiveness

Perhaps the most well-known and widely-studied effect of makeup is its ability to increase perceptions of overall facial attractiveness. A wealth of research has consistently demonstrated that the strategic application of cosmetics can make people appear more attractive, desirable, and socially competent.

A 2018 study published in the journal Perception examined the impact of makeup on attractiveness ratings across different cultures. The researchers had participants from various countries rate the attractiveness of faces with and without makeup. Regardless of the participants' cultural background, the faces with makeup were consistently rated as more attractive.

The researchers attribute this effect to the way that makeup can enhance specific facial features that are associated with youthfulness, health, and genetic fitness – traits that are traditionally considered attractive. By drawing attention to the eyes, lips, and complexion, makeup can make the face appear more symmetrical, vibrant, and aesthetically pleasing.

Interestingly, the degree of perceived attractiveness enhancement seems to depend on the specific makeup techniques used. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that more dramatic, glamorous makeup looks tended to have a stronger impact on attractiveness ratings than more natural, subtle makeup applications.

This suggests that the transformative power of makeup lies not just in its ability to enhance individual features, but in its capacity to create a cohesive, polished aesthetic that aligns with cultural beauty standards. By skillfully blending and coordinating different makeup elements, individuals can achieve a look that is perceived as more attractive and desirable.

Influencing Social Perceptions and Behavior

Beyond its direct impact on facial features and appearance, makeup can also influence the way that others perceive and interact with the wearer. A growing body of research has explored the social and behavioral implications of makeup usage.

A 2019 study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that women who wore makeup were perceived as more confident, competent, and socially skilled than those who went without. The researchers suggest that this effect is rooted in the way that makeup can enhance features associated with youthfulness, health, and sociosexual maturity – all of which are desirable traits in potential mates and social partners.

Similarly, a 2020 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology revealed that makeup-wearing individuals were more likely to be approached and engaged in social interactions, compared to their bare-faced counterparts. The researchers posit that the enhanced attractiveness and perceived social competence conferred by makeup can make the wearer appear more approachable and desirable as a social partner.

Interestingly, these social benefits may also extend to professional contexts. A 2021 study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that women who wore makeup to job interviews were more likely to be hired and receive higher starting salary offers than those who did not. The researchers attribute this effect to the way that makeup can signal competence, confidence, and attention to detail – all valuable traits in the workplace.

Taken together, these findings suggest that the use of makeup can have a profound impact on how we are perceived and treated by others, with downstream effects on our social and professional opportunities. By enhancing our physical appearance and projecting an image of confidence and competence, makeup can become a powerful tool for shaping interpersonal dynamics and social outcomes.

The Neurological Basis of Makeup's Effects

But what is the underlying neurological basis for makeup's transformative effects on facial features and social perceptions? Recent advances in neuroscience have shed light on the complex interplay between cosmetics, visual processing, and the brain's reward systems.

A 2020 study published in the journal NeuroImage found that the viewing of attractive, made-up faces triggers heightened activity in brain regions associated with reward processing and social cognition. Specifically, the researchers observed increased activation in the ventral striatum (a key part of the brain's reward system) and the anterior cingulate cortex (involved in social decision-making) when participants viewed images of made-up faces, compared to bare-faced ones.

This suggests that the perception of makeup-enhanced features may tap into our innate neural mechanisms for assessing physical attractiveness and social desirability. In essence, our brains seem to be wired to find made-up faces more rewarding and appealing, which can then influence our subsequent judgments and behaviors.

Furthermore, a 2021 study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology revealed that the specific features enhanced by makeup (such as larger eyes, fuller lips, and more symmetrical facial structure) may be particularly salient to the brain's visual processing systems. The researchers found that these makeup-altered features elicited stronger responses in brain regions associated with facial recognition and social perception, compared to unenhanced facial features.

This provides a neurological explanation for why makeup can have such a profound impact on our perceptions of facial attractiveness and social competence. By targeting specific visual cues that the brain is primed to find compelling, makeup can trigger heightened neural responses that shape our subjective judgments and social interactions.

Importantly, these neurological effects don't just apply to the wearer – they can also influence the perceptions and behaviors of those observing the made-up face. A 2019 study published in the journal Cognitive Processing found that merely viewing images of made-up faces activated reward-related brain regions in the observers, suggesting that the appeal of makeup-enhanced features may be a shared, intersubjective experience.

Taken together, these neuroscientific insights provide a deeper understanding of the complex, bidirectional relationship between makeup, facial features, and social cognition. By tapping into the brain's hardwired mechanisms for assessing physical attractiveness and social desirability, makeup can profoundly shape how we see ourselves and how others see us.

Considerations and Caveats

While the scientific evidence for makeup's ability to enhance facial features and influence social perceptions is compelling, it's important to note that there are also important caveats and considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, the transformative power of makeup is strongly influenced by individual skill and technique. A poorly executed makeup application is unlikely to yield the same positive effects as a professionally-applied, skillful look. This means that the benefits of makeup may not be equally accessible to all individuals, particularly those without access to high-quality cosmetics or makeup artistry training.

Additionally, the cultural and societal context in which makeup is used can play a significant role in its perceived impact. Beauty standards and norms around makeup usage can vary widely across different cultures, and individuals may internalize these standards in different ways. What is considered an "attractive" or "competent" makeup look in one setting may be viewed quite differently in another.

It's also important to acknowledge the potential downsides and unintended consequences of makeup usage. Overreliance on makeup to enhance one's appearance can contribute to feelings of insecurity, low self-esteem, and an unhealthy preoccupation with physical appearance. And in some contexts, the social and professional advantages conferred by makeup usage may reinforce harmful gender stereotypes and inequalities.

Furthermore, the long-term effects of regular makeup use on skin health and overall wellbeing are still not fully understood. While high-quality cosmetics are generally considered safe for most individuals, the cumulative impact of daily makeup application on the skin's microbiome, hydration levels, and susceptibility to irritation remains an area of active research.

Ultimately, the decision to use makeup and the specific ways in which it is applied should be a personal choice, guided by individual preferences, comfort levels, and an understanding of both the potential benefits and drawbacks. While the scientific evidence points to makeup's powerful ability to enhance facial features and shape social perceptions, it's crucial to maintain a balanced and nuanced perspective on its role in personal and societal conceptions of beauty and self-worth.

Final Words

The science behind why makeup can enhance facial features is complex and multifaceted, involving a range of psychological, physiological, and neurological mechanisms. From creating the illusion of greater facial symmetry to selectively accentuating desirable features, the strategic application of cosmetics can profoundly shape how we perceive ourselves and how others perceive us.

Moreover, makeup's transformative power extends beyond just physical appearance, influencing social perceptions, interpersonal interactions, and even professional outcomes. By tapping into the brain's innate reward systems and visual processing pathways, makeup can make us appear more attractive, competent, and socially desirable to those around us.

Of course, it's important to keep in mind the potential downsides and limitations of makeup usage, as well as the importance of individual preferences and cultural contexts. Ultimately, the decision to use makeup should be a personal one, guided by an understanding of both its benefits and its potential pitfalls.

But for those who choose to embrace the transformative power of cosmetics, the science is clear: makeup can be a powerful tool for enhancing one's natural features, boosting confidence, and shaping social perceptions – all while tapping into the deep-seated neurological mechanisms that underlie our most fundamental notions of beauty and attraction.