Jordin Sparks wrote the following essay about her experience going makeup-free, inspired by TODAY's "Love Your Selfie" series.
When my publicist told me the TODAY Show wanted me to try no makeup week, I thought, “I do that all the time. I would love to be a part of that!” I actually go makeup-free more than I wear makeup.
When I do wear makeup, here is my routine:
- Wash face (if I didn't already) and moisturize.
- Mix foundations and apply foundation to face and neck.
- Brush bronzer on cheeks, face and neck.
- Contour and highlight.
- Apply eyeliner and smudge.
- Apply eye shadows.
- Apply mascara.
- Apply eyelashes and more mascara to blend them together.
- Pick out lip gloss, lipstick or stain.
- Apply blush.
I can actually do all that in about 20 minutes. I definitely have it down. Now, when I get my makeup done by an artist, it takes a lot longer. They have a lot more products and steps. And I can't sit very long, so that lengthens the time.
When I participated in no makeup week with the TODAY Show, it wasn’t hard for me because I am completely comfortable without makeup. If my face breaks out, then I'm a little more aware. Luckily, I didn't have a break out that week.
When I went out without makeup, there were a few people who recognized me. They treated me just the same — some asked for pictures and some just wanted to say hello. And I did get compliments like, “You are so gorgeous in person!” or “You don't even need any makeup. You're lucky.”
But it was tough trying to find paparazzi. I mean really, the moment I actually want them to take a pic, they are nowhere to be found! Ha ha!
If anything, trying a no makeup week made me more confident to not wear it. I even had extra time and was able to make a dent in unpacking my house — incredible! But I’m not giving up wearing makeup completely. I do love makeup and love to play with it (I just got some more lip gloss the other day).
As women, I know it gets tough when you become used to a certain look or routine. But we should realize that we should feel comfortable and confident in who we are with or without. When I see other women without makeup, my first thought usually is, “You go girl!” I also think about how it's great for them to let their skin breathe.
I think no makeup week is a great idea and maybe we can turn it into a beauty challenge for the other amazing, beautiful women around the globe.
All week, TODAY will be exploring the issues we all face with body image on a daily basis, hoping to help you change the way you see yourself. Everyone from Cameron Diaz to Michelle Obama will weigh in. Follow the series at TODAY.com/LoveYourSelfie.
We also want you to get in on the action. Share your makeup-free photos on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook using the hashtag #LoveYourSelfie, and tune in all next week for a series we hope helps everyone feel just a little more comfortable in their own skin.