I was recently reminded that National Lipstick Day falls on 29th July — neatly timed for this blog post to go live! Once upon a time, MAC would mark the occasion by giving away a free lipstick – I used to hot foot it into a store to claim my gift. I doubt they do that anymore. But The day reminded me of the power of lipstick and how its become an essential part of my armour and a midlife interrupted tool.
For the last 2.5 years, most days have been lipstick days. Yes, in my teenage years I experimented with lipstick – at that time the darker the better (remember boots 17 black cherry?). Through my 20s and 30s I would only really wear it on occasion, and with lashings of Lipcote in the hope that it would stay on my lips without the hassle of reapplying. Then it was mostly about looks and being attractive.
I discovered the real power of lipstick when my midlife was interrupted.
It became a small saviour as I navigated chemotherapy (for breast cancer) and a mostly only- obvious-to-me bit of hair loss. That, coupled with decision to embrace going grey, meant I used lipstick as a way of detracting attention away from my hair. Since then, it’s continued to be my go-to feel good accessory. Yes, its helped as my hair turned colour – adding a flash of colour to my face. But it has also been a perfect confidence boost too. I’ve worn it to work, to attend speaking events, to present on behalf of Menopause and Cancer, on nights out and even on a marathon walk!!
I turn to it when I’m facing something that feels a bit scary and nerve wracking. When I need to feel capable and resilient. And it really works!
I now know there are actual studies which have proved out the power of lipstick – for many women it’s more than just looking good. Like it has for me, lipstick can boost self-esteem and confidence. While some studies suggest bold lips are more ‘attractive’ because they mimic health and vitality, for most of us it’s more personal: lipstick can match a mood, act as armour, or simply feel fun. Whether it’s a bright red, a subtle nude, or a brave purple, lipstick has the power to shift how we feel
And there is a whole history of the power of lipstick:
Lipstick dates back over 5,000 years – The first known users were the ancient Sumerians, who crushed gemstones to decorate their lips. Cleopatra famously used crushed beetles and ants for a bold red lip.
In the 1700s, lipstick was banned in Britain – Parliament claimed it could “seduce men into marriage,” equating it with witchcraft and deceit. And in the 1920s red lipstick was associated with prostitution.
Queen Elizabeth I made red lips iconic – Her stark white face and crimson lips became a royal trademark in the 16th century.
During WWII red lipstick was symbolic – Women were encouraged to wear red lipstick as a morale booster and symbol of patriotism. The shade “Victory Red” was even created for this purpose.
Lipstick sales rise during hard times — This is called the Lipstick Index. When the economy dips, lipstick becomes an affordable feel-good luxury and accessory.
Red lipstick can actually make you look more confident — Studies show that people perceive those wearing red lipstick as more assertive and self-assured.
Lipstick has evolved from toxic to nourishing — Early formulas contained lead and carmine (crushed insects), thankfully today it’s based on vitamin E and hydrating oils and SPF. today’s versions often include SPF
I have no idea what the best selling lipstick is but according to a recent Cosmopolitan article, the most iconic lipsticks include:
MAC’s Ruby Woo, Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk, Dior Rouge 999, Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Intense Lip Colour in Pirate and Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey
The average woman owns 7 lipsticks — But only use 2 regularly. I own more than 7 RED lipsticks alone – and countless other colours.
Lipstick is power — Whether it’s a swipe of red before a big meeting or a tinted balm on quieter days, it often can transform how you feel.
And that is why I love lipstick! A small thing that makes a big difference!