Sali Hughes: A lifetime of make-up, why it's worth it.
A new poll conducted by Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour finds that women spend around 15 minutes more than men per day on their appearance. We women apparently spend around 40 minutes (on average - I’m not convinced this long is typical of most) choosing an outfit, doing our hair, shaving and on general grooming, while men take just under 25 minutes. This doesn’t seem terribly significant until one calculates that this disparity amounts to almost eight extra hours a month spent in front of a mirror.
Everyone can look better in two minutes - whether that constitutes a blast of the hairdryer or the dab of a powder puff.
While I honestly can’t remember the last time I spent 40 minutes getting ready (though I know it would have been a special occasion), I have no problem with the poll’s findings. Our desire to look good is healthy, our instinct to groom is innate. I find the rituals involved quite soothing, as well as helpful in providing demarcation that the working day, or a big night out, has begun. When my lips are on, it’s time to stop faffing and get going (likewise, if I’m having a lazy weekend at home, I’d no sooner make up than run a marathon). I always feel bolstered by the knowledge that I look the best I can - even if I’m exhausted, unwell, nervous or fed up, and am invariably cheered by a splash of colour or a pleasant scent.
Besides, grooming is hardly an arduous task for most of us. I would generally pop on some foundation, concealer and perfume at home, then perhaps sweep on a quick coat of lipstick, blush and mascara on the train to work (I will groom publicly within strict, self-imposed perimeters - no facing seats, no shedding, spraying, plucking, dusting or filing. No exceptions). Or I’ll do the whole thing at home while I listen to the news or watch my children eat breakfast. Everyone can look better in two minutes - whether that constitutes a blast of the hairdryer or the dab of a powder puff. The extent of your efforts should be entirely your own prerogative.
None of us is obliged to take 40 minutes to get ready, but not all of us see those minutes as a ball and chain, either. For me, time spent (five minutes on a writing day, 30-40 minutes on a meetings day) on the act of getting ready is a pleasure. It’s when I’m forced to stop and pay attention to myself before the rest of my day is taken over by children, work, making phone calls, answering emails, looking after the house or maintaining my relationships with others. It’s an act of self care, of self expression and of creativity - and one from which I emerge feeling confident, rather lovely and as though ready for whatever the day throws in my direction. I genuinely pity men for not having that up their sleeve, and I wouldn’t swap for anything - not even that extra 15 minutes in bed.
Sali Hughes is journalist, writer and broadcaster.
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