Ever unobtrusively observe someone’s face and think ‘what if it cracks?’ Or wonder about who was underneath there?
Unfortunately, that is what we though recently when we had to look twice and then again at someone. It was not the first time either.
Like discovering a new game, with their proclivity for make-up, some persons, it would appear, have decided to utilize their face to practice what can only be described as their limited artistic ability.
Misusing something which is supposed to enhance their attractiveness, they slather on their make-up, showcasing to the society, what we are sure, is a fraudulent representation of them-selves.
Now, let’s get this straight; the majority of those who use make-up have a pretty good idea of what’s good enough, what suits them and what enhances their attractiveness. They have learnt, some the hard way, what goes. We are not aiming at them.
But this knowledge has not been grasped by others, who literally paint their faces. Either unaware or uncaring, they waltz out into the world, attracting the inevitable stares. Looking as though they are auditioning for a horror movie or as one person cruelly asked if they were making bakes, (apparently the liberally applied powder brought images of dusting bakes with flour to him), make-up is over applied by some.
Now we are aware of the desire to be like the seemingly always ‘picture-perfect’ celebrities, but they have professionals and the advantage of make-up specially-formulated for their particular skin types. Since many here put on their own, it is advisable they learn what works best for them. Practice, preferably indoors, get honest opinions, and keep all pets out (they may not recognize you at first and attempt to attack you).
But some it would seem think they know it all and refuse to change. We have been fascinated by someone we know, whose neck and face, when they ‘put on their face’, are very different shades and this we have very kindly if bluntly pointed out. The response? ‘I’m not doing this for you.’ Fair enough, then I won’t be caught dead in your company.
We visited a few websites to research this topic and for almost all of them, the number one rule was ‘Avoid wearing too much’.
And we should point out this subject is clearly a sensitive one for some. Finely delineated eyebrows were raised and mouths were left opened when we mentioned this issue. If we had to hazard a guess we would think that some had suffered some bad days.
Too much make-up lends a whole new meaning to discovering what someone is really like. If you are a clown, we apologize; we know that painting your face is a requirement for your job. We know too that in some cultures, during special ceremonies, make-up is applied until that person is unrecognizable.
But this is Guyana and if we want to observe a clown, we’ll go see one. Otherwise, remember the fairy-tale Snow White. The witch was the fairest one of all until Snow White came along. Personally, we think the witch wore make-up, which cracked and revealed the creature underneath. (thescene@stabroeknews.com)
