7 Ways Makeup Can Help Ease Symptoms of Depression

One swipe of liner. Wash off the lipstick. A flick of mascara. For some people, makeup is just makeup. But for others, it can be a powerful form of self-care and self-expression that boosts confidence and supports a healthy sense of self. Especially at times when this sense of self feels fragile and elusive, as is often the case with depression.

Depression is a way of numbing our senses and emotions. On days when things feel too hard or heavy, the sensory act of putting on makeup can offer a brief respite by grounding us in the present moment and interrupting the negative feedback loop.

Makeup routines should not be considered a substitute for professional treatment. That said, it can help develop mindfulness and positively affect our emotional and social well-being.

1. Offers a sense of control

Depression and anxiety often come with feelings of helplessness. Stephanie Boucher, MC, RP, a registered psychotherapist specializing in depression, anxiety and trauma, says that when engaging in a structured, predictable ritual, like a makeup routine, offers a sense of stability.

It also provides a sense of agency by offering a small but tangible way to regain control of your day, adds Dr. Mickey Lee Alembibe, a clinical psychologist based in Manhattan.

2. Can boost self-esteem

“Such self-care routines” keep us in touch with our desire to look and feel good, says Jillian Amodeo, LMSW. ”

When we intentionally focus our mind and body, bound in love and appreciation, it sends a powerful message to the brain: “I matter.” This, in turn, can boost our independence and self-esteem, Amodeo explains.

3. Serves as a form of creative expression

“Creativity allows for emotional release without words,” says Boucher. Amodeo says that experimenting with different products, colors and makeup looks can be a fun and freeing way to get away from intrusive thoughts and express yourself, even if that look never leaves your bathroom mirror.

4. May lead to better social interaction

A makeup routine can help you look more prepared and put together in social situations, reducing feelings of self-consciousness. “This can help make the conversation seem less scary and more pleasant,” says Dr. Alembibe.

According to Amodeo, it can also serve as an icebreaker or common ground for connecting with others given the popularity of makeup trends, making it easier to engage in conversation despite low motivation or the social anxiety that often accompanies depression.

5 can boost your mood

Depression is seen as a state in which you have an overly critical view of yourself, the world, and the future. That’s why “it’s really hard to stay in the present moment when you’re feeling down. Keeping a positive outlook can be even harder,” says Celeste Simmons, Ph.D., a San Diego-based psychologist.

A makeup routine can help with both by acting as a form of ‘behaviour activation’. Dr. Simmons explains that behavioral activation is a psychological approach to engaging in something meaningful and pleasurable to improve mood, even if your motivation is low.

“In college, I used to say, ‘Take an extra five,’ as a reminder to put in just five extra minutes on personal grooming before going out so we can present a better image on behalf of the organization,” Channing Mueller, a 39-year-old business owner and run coach from Chicago, shares. “When I first heard this phrase, I still find myself saying ‘five to an extra five’ where I feel particularly quick and a little shocked.

6. Can promote mindfulness

“In therapy, mindfulness is used to treat most mental illnesses, including depression and anxiety,” says a New York physician who specializes in depression, anxiety and self-esteem issues. Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment and becoming more aware of yourself without judgment.

“The slow, measured, repeated steps of applying makeup encourage present-moment awareness,” Boucher says. She explains that focusing on different colors, textures, smells and sensations can distract the mind from anxious or depressing thoughts, creating a calming effect.

“I consider my makeup routine ‘therapy’ because it allows me to just focus and quiet my mind from stress and overthinking,” says Shana Bynes-Bradford, a 48-year-old aromatherapist and medical esthetician based in Florida.

7. Can serve as a grounding technique

Dr. Simmons explains that grounding is a psychological tool that helps you focus on something concrete to fire up your senses and better manage your thoughts and emotions. A makeup routine can help you do that, she adds.

Delevingne notes that the sensory experience of applying makeup can be very tactile and visually appealing, which can motivate us to be present. “It forces your brain to not give so much space to the ‘what ifs’ of intrusive thoughts,” she says.

In addition, structure, predictability, and a sense of control provide consistent routines that act as mental “anchors” that can help us stay present and grounded.

How to Include Makeup in a Depression Management Plan

Here are four expert-approved ways to use makeup as a self-care practice without feeling overwhelmed.

• Start small: Amodeo recommends starting with any one makeup product to ease into the routine. “I would recommend putting it somewhere that’s easily accessible to encourage use,” says DeLeo.
• Keep it simple: Keep the routine simple and focus on the overall experience, Amodeo suggests. How did you feel at first? How do you feel afterwards? What does the product smell like? It seems so? Consider using hybrid makeup products to streamline the process. Think tinted lip balms with SPF and hydrating makeup multisticks.
• Try stacking the habit: Habit stacking is basically piggybacking a new habit onto an established habit to make it more likely to stick. For example, you can apply your makeup right after you brush your teeth, says DeLeo.
• Make it comfortable: Amodeo suggests pairing your makeup routine with positive affirmations, mindfulness meditation, or your favorite podcast to make the process even better.

Keep in mind

For those living with depression, a makeup routine can be a powerful yet accessible creative outlet that can improve mood and self-esteem. Whether you like to play with neons or go the minimalist route, it’s how you feel while wearing it that really matters. And for that, I pick up my beauty blender.

That said, it’s important to note that makeup can be a valuable self-care tool, but it’s not a substitute for professional treatment or therapy.