How Many Mom's Get up Every Morning and Put on Full Makeup and Fix Hair?

I will do my makeup everyday, even if I don't plan on leaving the house. It helps remind me that I am an attractive, powerful, and amazing woman and helps me to not get so sucked into the roles of mother, cook, housekeeper, and on and on. I need to remind myself that there is more to me, and by doing my makeup I feel so much better about myself.

Plus, I know my husband loves the way I look. He's great about not making me feel like I have to, but I know he appreciates what I do and how I take care of myself.

For the past year since I haven't worked and had a new baby I still do the hair and makeup to be in my routine and "not let myself go" or be lazy about my appearance. Again, besides looking good for me, I need to look good for my husband. I don't want to look like a frumpy home-mom, I want to be one of those "hot moms". And yes, I do care what others think of my appearance as well!

I put make-up on every single day (and actually won't leave my house without it), but that is for two reasons. One, I feel SO much better about myself when I do, and two, I sell make-up for a "living" so I need to "advertise" what I sell. I do believe that putting on a "fresh face" every day makes me feel much more like a woman and not just a mom. I get to be me, and not just Austin's mommy everyday. I do not stress about my hair every day, but I have plenty of friends who are the opposite of me...no make-up but beautiful hair every day. I guess for some women, it just makes them feel good!

The people I work with are lucky if I do that every day before getting to the office!
I quit wearing much makeup years ago except for special occasions. My eyes have really become sensitive so I pay for it after putting much of anything on them.
It's nice to pretty up every now and then and my son always assumes we must be going somewhere special. Somedays, nope, I just felt like it.
My mom doesn't get made up to work in the yard, but she wouldn't dare ever go to the store or in public without her hair and face done. She admits it's a bit of a vanity thing. She thinks people will look at her and say, "Didn't that woman have 10 minutes to comb her hair or put some lipstick on?"
She did have to venture out to the dermatologist's office with zero makeup because he had to check some pre-cancerous lesions on her skin and she said it was nice to know that no one fainted in the streets at the sight of her.

I know several women who get up before dawn to have time for the full regalia before their kids and husbands get up. I'm not one of them, but hey, that's their thing. I don't understand why women pay to have false fingernails put on, but it's a zillion dollar industry, so what do I know? If that's what they do to pamper themselves and they like it, it's not for me to figure out. How much they spend on it or why they do it has nothing to do with me. I tell my friends how nice their nails always look because it's obviously important to them. I'd never think of asking them why they bother.
What difference would their answers make?
Why don't I wear full makeup? Why don't I spend money on products and stylists and an hour a day trying to have Pamela Anderson hair? I don't feel like it.
Some people do.
Some people are just creatures of habit.
At 94 years old, my grandmother still went and had her hair done every week and slept in a hair net at night. Every day, she put on her face powder and her "lip rouge". She wore a perfectly pressed dress every single day of her life. Yes....even to sweep her front porch and trim her hedges and her rose bushes. She was a proper, Southern woman, and didn't deviate if snowed in or even when lightening knocked a part of her porch off. That's no exaggeration. She was up and dressed and had her house clean before her cleaning lady came. She never knew when a package might be delivered and she didn't want the postman seeing her in her house coat that had ruffles at the collar and the pockets. That would have been scandalous! He might have taken her for being ill. She wasn't about to have any of that.
She was funny though. She had her routine down to a snap and she always said I took too long to get ready. She'd say, "I didn't hear anything on the news about a beauty pageant at the Piggly Wiggly today."
Little did she know I only took my time out of reverence for her propriety.
She'd have left me sitting in the car if I'd just got up and gone out.

Perhaps that's the secret to longevity.
Get up, greet the day, put your best face forward and be prepared for anything as gracefully as possible.

I don't see any harm in those who look at life that way.

That's just my opinion.

What a great question! I stopped doing hair and makeup when my son was born, but then we had a speaker at our moms group talk about self esteem. She said we should always make an effort to look our best, if not for anyone else, then for ourselves. So I tried it - nothing extreme, but every morning (whether I have plans or not) I get dressed, put on some mineral powder foundation, eyeliner, and lip gloss, and do something with my hair. I noticed the very first day that my attitude improved. Also, at the risk of sounding very 1950's here.... my husband really likes it too. Plus I feel more confident if I have to run an errand or if someone stops by unexpected. I think we owe it to ourselves as moms to do this!

Well, I haven't left the house yet today, but here I sit in "full face paint" with my hair done. I haven't read all of your responses, but it always strikes me that when one is always pulled together, one is usually subjected to flack from women who are not pulled together.

Look, if you want to be au naturel, nobody's stopping you. Would I want to? No. Why be average when you can turn heads? But perhaps you're more genetically blessed than I am, and look great rolling out of bed in the morning. Perhaps your neighbor isn't.

I don't see where the cost of makeup figures in, personally. I mean, toothpaste isn't cheap, but we all still use that. Underwear isn't cheap either, and we don't get in a snit about the cost of that. In my book, makeup isn't a luxury, it's a necessity.

I do everyday. Get up, shower, wash hair, style it, put on makeup, dress for the day (depends on the schedule and if I'm going anywhere as to what I wear, but I do try to look presentable anyway). I do this because it helps me to feel put together and more productive. Also, I do it for my husband. I want to look nice for him. I want him to know that I care about how I look (not in a conceited way, but not wanting to be sloppy or unkempt). He provides well for his family, and I want to reflect that back to him. He is out in the workforce with professional looking women everyday. He doesn't need to come home to a wife who has sweats on, her hair in a pony-tail, and no makeup. Now, having said that, I have fair skin that looks pale without makeup. My eyes disappear without makeup. I don't cake it on. I wear it in a more "natural" style. My husband loves the way I do my hair and face. So, I do it for him. Also, I want my children to have pretty memories of Mommy. I want them to esteem homemakers as beautiful women who labor in love for their families. I'm at home pretty much everyday with my children. I homeschool them. It would be so easy to get out of bed and school in our pjs. But, we don't. We want to reflect the joy, peace, and order that are in our home. Anyway, that's my take on it.

hi stacey, im not gonna read all these posts because i read yours and your update and i get the general idea of what most people said, which truly surprised me. i was looking forward to reading them, figuring that other busy moms were more like me and it would make me feel better about the way i leave the house sometimes. sometimes i feel like i dont recognize myself. o well. some days are so insane that i leave the house and i am proud of myself that im wearing a bra and shoes. if i have time i do try to do my hair a bit and put on some eyeliner. my bare minimum is washing up, ponytail, and mascara. i feel naked without it. i have 3 little ones and i do the best i can. i keep extra deodorant in my glove compartment in case i forget, you get the idea. for the moms who do it up every day, more power to you, i dont know how you do it. one day i will have lots more time on my hands to do all these things, and i will miss my little ones horribly. my kids are clean and happy and healthy so i figure im doing ok..... lots of other moms out there look better than me, and lots look worse. the same goes for the condition of my house, by the way. i do the best i can, its all about finding your balance and what works for you. so whatever it is, it is. you know who you are, do what makes you comfortable. oh, and i love pjs too :)

I am somewhat like your neighbor but do it for different reasons. I have been working from home for over 10 years and one thing I have learned is, if I take care of myself first I somehow have a brighter outlook on the day. It doesn't mean that I don't take a day once and a while where I stay in my PJs all day, I just find that those days I really don't have the energy I typically do. Something about just getting up and getting ready for the day makes me feel better and ready to take on the world.

Now, some days I put on the FULL face, foundation, extra eyes, etc. and some days I go the light route. I do always style my hair but that may entail curling all my hair or just my bangs and doing a pony tail. Either way, my goal is to be dressed and ready for the day by the time my kids wake up.

One of the other reasons I do it is, I have a strong feeling that my husband married me a certain way. I did get up every day when we first started dating, and I did get ready every day. In the early days, he didn't see me grungy or unkept, I was always trying to look good for him. I still believe he deserves to have a wife that takes care of herself, that he likes to come home and see his bride of 20+ years in good order. I know I am aging and will never be that spry, unwrinkled young thing I used to be, but I do want to look the best I can for him. I want him to still have a crush on me. = )

Your friend up the street says she does it so she can run out whenever she wants, etc. and there is something to be said for that. I am not thinking it is because she wants to look good for everyone else, she just wants to feel good about herself and this is what does it for her.

If you feel best about yourself by having a few days a week of PJ days, then do it! If you like the way your look without makeup and hair done, then go for it. We are all different in what makes us feel good, don't let others make you worry about your style.

Good luck!

Updated

After I wrote my response I read some of your other responses. I am not sure why everyone is so nasty! Just ignore the bad ones and take the good. Be who you are and screw everybody else! This site is not a place for women to make each other feel bad, it is supposed to support!!! Those women should be ashamed of themselves.

I do full makeup and at least a neat-looking ponytail, because it's more practical to have my hair back. Especially when I'm sick, tired, etc..I feel it's more important to not look like it! Putting and having it on makes me feel better and more awake. And I don't really want my husband to ever look at me and think that I don't care about myself, which might be how I looked if I didn't try just a little. And I like him to be proud of who he married, he knows that I'm a good mom and person but a little extra effort helps keep it alive. Looking good makes you feel good! And when you feel good it shows and makes others feel good too!

I think the people who say they don't care what others think don't mind when other people think they're pretty! And the women I know who don't try, either because they "don't care" or don't want to be noticed seem to have lower self esteem. Sad to say, but in this world part of who we are and our self esteem comes from how we appear on the outside.

There are moms at our school who always compliment me on looking pulled together, and I have wondered why if they think that is a good thong, they wouldn't take an extra five minutes to try. I also think it sends a message ti our kids that it's important to take time and care for yourself.

Even just a little tinted moisturizer, lipgloss, and one coat of mascara (but most important groomed brows) makes anyone look a little better!

I shower, clean up and look nice daily. It has NOTHING to do with confidence or security... I do look rocking hot and I am proud of it..I work hard to maintain my body and it is a matter of self respect. I also think of when my husband comes home..... he'd much rather see me put together than lounging in pj's or sweats.

Think if it this way.... would you want to look at your husband if he didn't care enough about himself to take pride in his body and appearance?

The shower and routine of getting ready (less than 40 minutes a day....not that much time) gets me up and going. I am more motivated to get my things done. I multi task.... I can do laundry while my hair air dries a little, answer some emails and put on nice clothes. I don't wear a ton of makup, just light basics.

I'm not one to lounge in pj's or sweats, I don't even own any. I do care about my appearance and take pride in myself. I see some moms who become mom and then they just let them selves go, get all frumpy and look as if they don't care about themselves. That is sad to me....

Do I care what others think? Heck no, I could care less. I was raised where personal cleaniness and taking care of yourself is a matter of self respect.

I do some of both. Since I go to work M-F, of course I am dressed up in my corporate best and most of the time do something "more" than just lipstick and mascara for make-up. *SIGH* But at 38...This feel quite necessary. I recall in my 20s going to work in khakis and lipstick and sometimes my hair was still wet.

So what about those days when I have no where to go and no one to see? Sure plenty of times nothing makes me happier than getting ready by changing into clean PJs. BUT! Sometimes, those nothing-to-do days are the BEST days to get your full fancy pants girl style on...Because you are doing it just to please yourself. Ah...! The joy of looking pretty while sitting on my patio on a Sunday afternoon with fresh pedicure, a glass of wine, and a beloved book. Sweet! = )

As for your neighbor, what's the harm? And though this is pure conjecture, maybe she looks in the mirror, doesn't like what she sees, and finds that a cute outfit and make-up make her feel better? We all suffer from bouts of self doubt and perhaps she is "self-medicating" by dressing up.

I sure don't. I do get dressed but not the second I roll out of bed maybe after I'm awake and have got my day started. I do comb the hair and put in a pony or up, wash the face and put on moisturizer. I don't put on makeup unless I have an appointment, date or school function. If I'm just running errands I don't put on makeup. I have been known on occassion to stay in jammies all day too. I personally don't feel that getting dressed, fixing my hair, putting on makeup makes me any more productive at getting things done around the house. I do agree it is a waste of money and especially since you said she complains about the cost of the products.
I agree with the others it might be an insecure or confidence issue. I don't think most people care if strangers have on makeup or fixed hair, if they do they have way to much time on their hands and need a hobby.

I like curious questions like these!

Added: So many women are mentioning hygiene, showering and looking sloppy. Not wearing make up has nothing to do with personal hygiene. Looking sloppy would have to do with the way you were dressed. Washed face, combed hair and no makeup does not = sloppy. Ripped clothes, mis-matched colors, oversized, paint splattered and holes would come closer to equaling sloppy. I don't get the connection. I have pajamas that are hot-cute.

I thought there would be more nice and funny, or supportive answers. Bummer. I will say I feel a little better when I'm cleaned up, but not necessarily all made up. I drive my daughter to school and walk her up to her door. I see lots of moms who by that time are already fully made up and dressed nice, so I do feel a little frumpy then. But I can't say I would do anything different- for me to be like that would mean either getting up an hour earlier (and cutting into my already depleted sleep) or leaving my daughter on her own to get ready for school while I'm getting ready (and I love eating breakfast with her and making her lunch!), so it's just not something I'm willing to do. And of course, I'm not the only frump dropping off a kid!

If someone shows up at my house and I'm not showered, of course I'm left wishing I was already dressed, but it doesn't ruin my day or my confidence. I'm doing the best I can and some days I'm lucky to even get a shower!!

When the people I see at school dressed up are friends, I'll sometimes joke that I look like the before and they're the after. Never has anyone said I should put more effort or anything negative, they always say nice things and explain why they're dressed up. If I got negative comments, it would be a whole different story, because as you say- not nice to judge!!

Thanks for posting- interesting responses!

I've always loved make-up. Trying new things looking different. I worked for 20 yrs in high end dept store so i got made up for free all the time and it was fun. Now, I don't put on as much but I always have a tinted gloss on and eyeline/mascara. I wonder why it even bothers you? When you say make-up is expensive and your neighbor also metions the cost does she ask you to donate to the cause?(lol) I always notice women who are put together they have an air of confidence. A woman passing by me hair combed and fresh breat doesn't hit my radar. And why do women who have stopped wearing makeup make excuses like they have realized "what's really important in life and therefore have no time to put on a face" To me that's just code for "I am so tired/lazy/uninspired running around, being a mommy that I can't do the girly stuff anymore". I say live and let live!!! If your neighbor wants to be full on glam for the postman who are you to judge?

I probably wear my jammies for half the day and then I'll get dressed. I don't really wear makeup everyday unless we have plans, just depends, sometimes I'll throw it on when I go to the store, sometimes not. And my hair just goes up in a ponytail or bun, it's too thick to wear down. If I'm having a down day sometimes I'll get dolled up and it makes me feel better.

FOr a long time I just sweatpants everyday, I found it makes me feel better about myself wearing jeans, and looking a little nicer, I will probably only wear mascara doing the day, and never do my, just bc my hair is thick, and takes so long to do.... but I do part it nice in a pony. I wish I could stay in my pj's all, but I would not get a thing done, I have to take a shower first thing in the morning, so I can start being productive!

That is totally insecurity on her part. She's afraid someone might see her without all this and think she looks bad and go around talking about it. For some that is something they can't deal with. However, I don't think not doing anything to yourself most of the time is not ok either. No matter how much your husband, boyfriend, etc says you look good without all that, they still like to come home to you looking like you put a little effort into yourself. Even if it' just at least doing your hair and putting on minimal make-up. Would you like to see your husband looking like a slob day-in and day-out?

If I'm not working or going somewhere I only do enough to keep people from asking if I feel ok! lol More power to people that are so organized and together. But, I've got laundry to do. Maybe i'm justifying to make my self feel better, but when I see people that are that made up, at all times, I think they must be very insecure. It wouldn't bother me if my neighbors see me in a ponytail, because I know I look rockin hot on date night. It's confidance that allows me to be so lazy! :)

No, I do not do that . . . never have, never will. And it's fairly unusual where I live (women here seem coiffed, plumped, blown out and botoxed to the max).

Neat and clean - that's all I care about.

More power to those ladies that do - hey, they keep our economy going. :)

Haha... I'm lucky if I get out of my pajamas..lol. If I do go out I do try to do something with my hair and put a little make up on. But if it's one of those days and I forgot something at the store, you can bet you will find my hair in a pony tail and my face will be bare. I think it's crazy to get that ready for nothing! If there was an emergency I doubt anyone would care if your hair and make up are done... some people!

I, for the most part, do my make up everyday. Makeup is expensive, and I do complain about it, but I still buy it. LOL. I am not one of those types that if i am running outside real quick I HAVE to have it on. its just a routine I have done for years. I am now a stay at home mom, and if my old co-workers saw me without makeup they wouldn't recognize me. I also think its who you are as a person if that is important to you or not, and that it doesn't always mean you are insecure about yourself. My mom never liked makeup, so when I was of age for makeup I just loved it, and how I could apply it to enhance rather then cover up. So it became an everyday thing, and even though I am a stay at home mom that part of my routine hasn't changed. On the flip side, if your not a huge makeup person, or dont feel the need to wear it all the time, or whatever the case may be thats completely fine. It's not like I look at people without make-up/hair done and say wow, look at that person with no make up on. LOL. =)

It's so funny, I was going to ask a question like this about how many moms stay in their pjs all day. After reading the other answers I feel like a slob-lol! I don't think it's an insecurity thing, I admire the moms that make the effort. I wish I could find the motivation, because honestly, pjs are my favorite way to spend the day at home. If I go out and then come home for the day even if it's early, I put them back on. I love being comfortable.

If I am going out, even to the grocery store, I do makeup. My hair is pretty low maintenance, it is short now and pretty much refuses to be styled. Hairdressers laugh when I say it won't do anything, til they try to make it do something. I used to have long hair and it was always only in a ponytail. Since it has always been that way I have always compensated with makeup. I love putting makeup on, but can't see bothering if I am just at home. I'd say about half the days we don't go out, and I sleep til my kid wakes up, so we just hang in our pjs if it is that kind of day. Also, my hubby is never home (works in another state) so I don't even feel like I need to get dressed for his sake.

I agree that you probably do feel more productive being dressed and done up, and that it is good to show your kids to take care of themselves. Now that mine is getting older, I hate when I need to do something spur of the moment and it takes time because I am still in pjs. I keep thinking I'll start getting ready in the mornings, but I just really hate wearing jeans and shoes in the house. So I'm probably doomed to live in lounge stuff, at least when I am at home. But I agree that pjs and no makeup does not equal sloppy, just comfy.

*Added*
I forgot I was going to say- I used to live overseas in Italy, and the women there get dressed in high heels and dresses for EVERYTHING. It was the funniest thing to all us americans (military area) to see these women dressed to the nines sweeping their balconies and hanging out laundry. I went on my balcony once to hang laundry with my hair in a towel still in pjs and the woman next door was scandalized, like I was naked or something! It was so funny. :) They also wore jeans and heels to the beach, right out on the sand, and laughed at us in our flip flops and beach clothes.

Who thought this could be a controversial question. I NEVER wear makeup unless I am going to a wedding our out on the town. I am SAHM and feel quite happy wearing my hair in a pony tail and sweats and flip flops to the grocery. Since I don't get all done up all the time, I feel very pretty when I do, as opposed to those who might feel like they don't look right unless they put make-up on. Guess some people are defensive. Not me--like you, I could care less.

I've never really not left the house during the day, unless we're talking about weekends. I always worked, except for a couple of years when my older kid was starting school, but even then, I was at the bus stop where people saw me, and dropping off/picking up the younger one at preschool. On the weekend, it's rare that I don't leave the house and even if I do, the kids may have friends here (often), a parent might come in for dropoff/pickup (I have a teen and a preteen now). I always shower and blow dry my hair (including spray) on those weekend days, occasionally I forgo the makeup but usually not. I don't use expensive products and don't wear the height of fashion (although I don't own sweats or tshirts). Out and about in the neighborhood? Coworkers or higher ups could see me, my students and their parents may see me, so no, I don't care to be out and about not looking the way that people normally see me.

I'm pretty surprised at all the replies but I must confess I didn't read them all. I never wear make-up. Only for special occassions and I can't even remember the last time I did. I don't like that caked on feeling, it feels like my face can't breath. I'm the same as you, I shower and get dressed but I don't style my hair or put on make-up. I do get out of my pjs into regular clothes but that's just who I am. My next door neighbor is the total opposite. Full make-up, hair, clothes everything, everyday. Even to the pool. But that's just who she is. She is more comfortable that way and whatever to each their own. I am comfortable with myself that I don't need to dress for anyone but myself not for everyone else. Everyone has a different view of how they want the world to see them.

I guess my answer sounded bitchy. Sorry.

However, just reread your post, and you called the woman's need to be made up "silly." Are you sure that's not judgmental?

I was really upset reading all of those negative comments about women who don't wear makeup. I only wear makeup on special occasions and honestly my fiance has told me several times he prefers women who can walk outside with NO makeup on at all. Why cover up something beautiful with gunk? I rarely even get out of my PJ's (I saw someone had said this too), let alone put on makeup. Sometimes I don't even brush my hair, my fiance says we're the perfect grunge couple! More power to women who don't wear makeup: you know you're beautiful and have tons of confidence!

Hahahahahahahahaha! I'm sorry, but that made me laugh. I am SOOOOO lucky to make it to the coffee maker in the morning after being shaken awake by my kids/husband. Then I'll stumble over and pour cereal. Sure, I'll run a brush through my hair and put on clothes without stains if I'm leaving the house, but really, that isn't every day. If I have a hot date with my husband (or girlfriend) (or, heck, if I am going to the library by myself) then maybe I'll put on some powder and mascara.
But then, I've NEVER been a big make up girl. I like having clean moisturized skin. Also, it gets HOT in Texas. Your make up would melt before noon. I don't have the energy for the upkeep.

I always do a little make-up - but then I never wear "full" make-up anyways. It makes me feel better about the day to have good looking skin (little foundation / concealer and lip gloss). On the other hand I have long hair it is in a bun or pony tail probably 90% of the time so doing full hair seems like a lot of work. I think it is all about trying to feel good about your day. I also always try to get "dressed" in a nice outfit. I find if I stay in PJ's I don't accomplish much - but that is just me!!

I am like the neighbor. Rain or shine I go through the whole entire ritual. Even if its to put on cut-offs and a halter to go out and wash the car. You see dear, I am a single mom and I never know when I least expect it that perfect (or close) to perfect mate might suddenly appear. I would like to be prepared to attract him. It could be the delivery guy etc. If I was married or in a relationship I would want my significant other to be able to be proud they are with me. I want them always to be attracted to me and not to other women who might try to woo him away. For me personally its just pride in my appearance. And it makes me feel more confident. J.!

I put my makeup on, sometimes not has much as other times......I was sick one day and a friend came by and didn't recognize me......I had on no make up and no brushed hair......so every day, I at least do my eyes and brush my hair!!! I know it's vain, but hey, it makes me feel better, and that's what counts right?

I get "all done up" every single day. I am a very social person so I usually have play dates, go to the store or park etc. So I do feel like people see me often but even when I do just stay home all day with my kiddos I still get ready for the day. With full make up, hair done and cute clothes. I do it for myself and my hubby. He would love me no matter what but I always said that when we started having kids that I wouldn't let myself go just because I'm a mom. I wanted to be a "hot mom" lol. I want him to come home from work to a clean home and a beautiful wife. I try very hard to be a good homemaker, wife and mother while still looking good. ;) I know not everyone cares or feels the need to get all done up on a day to day bases but for me.....I like to look nice and I know my hubby likes it too.

Honestly, it's rarer for me to NOT do my face & makeup than it is to do it. But, I am usually quite busy & there's not many days that I don't leave my house. I feel like it's part of my routine to feel fresh & 'ready' for my day. If theres cleaning and house chores to do, I usually do them first thing in the morning before my shower but then after I am finished or showered, I do my makeup & hair. I rarely just pull my hair back to avoid 'doing' it. Granted, I have a pretty simple style & it doesn't take more than 15-20 minutes or so & my makeup can take as little as about 7 minutes, base, powder, eyebrows, eyes etc. Good makeup lasts quite a long time, so to me, some of the more expensive makeup is worth it, I don't find I spend an unreasonable amount of money on it. Bottom line, yes, I do my hair and makeup pretty much every day & it hasn't ever felt like a waste of time or money. It's not so much for other people as it is just for me to feel ready & energized to take on my day.

I am 67 and have always done my hair and face before I go downstairs each day. Its not incase I meet someone. It's for me. For my self esteem. I function better when I like myself more. It's not expensive- 2 jars of moisturiser, 1 mascara, 2 eye shadow, 1 blusher and 1 lipgloss per year!

Seriously? Why do you care? that is the bigger question.

I don't know if you'll read this since you've already had to many replies. I'm sorry that some of them have been negative. It really bothers me that there have been some really judgmental responses, to not only this question but to most now a days! Mom's don't need to hear such hurtful things when they are simply seeking advice or guidance.
Anyway, with that said I don't bother with make-up every day. And my hair is naturally curly and most the time frizzy so it ends up in a clip. The only time I do look my best is for birthdays, fancy dinners, and other outings with the family. But in all honesty I could really careless what the public thinks of me. I'm a mother of two and I'm busy raising my girls, keeping house clean and taking care of my family, that's what is most important to me. My husband loves me for me, not for my face, and how I look in public. He know's that when I put time into myself I can be beautiful, but he also knows that raising kids and being a good mommy is beautiful too! When my girls reach school age then I will put make-up in everyday but for now, I need to put them first. Ya know?
I'm glad you asked this question cause I've often wondered the same. But if you get too busy and end up in your jammies all day then WHO CARES!
Thanks!

WOW! Who knew that this would be such a hot topic??? All I have to say is... TO EACH HER OWN!!! Everyone is different and makes different choices. What is important to you, may not be important to someone else. If someone's choice (to do, or not do, the whole beauty routine) is not the same as yours, that is no reason to call someone lazy, sloppy, vain, or insecure. Everyone has their reasons. However, those reasons may not be the same as yours. Many things may influence an individual's choice, which could include their upbringing, financial situation, health, and personal needs and desires.

Now, I have not read all of the responses, but from what I have read and the "So What Happened?" comment, I get the impression that many are trying to validate themselves and their choices. Maybe that is not true and I too am being judgmental, but that is my impression.

Personally, I don't do all the makeup. Like many teenage girls, I experimented with it a bit back in high school, but found it just wasn't for me. Makeup is reserved for special occasions. As for my hair, I have it styled so that I just just wash it, finger-comb it, and go. I like the way I look (and so does my husband), and that is all that truly matters. Right?

My mom was like that, but I'm NOT! lol! I pull my hair into an updo with a clip every day so it looks nice enough without all of that work and I only put on makeup when I'm leaving the house because I have really sensitive skin and wearing make up all of the time makes me break out. However, most people wouldn't know that about me because I don't "appear" in public without at least SOME make-up.

Don't feel bad, to each his own and grooming is pretty far down on my list after health and cleanliness.

Hi Stacey-

First of all thank you for the chuckle!! I laughed out loud when I read your subject line.

I haven't bought make up since I quit working outside the home 6 years ago and the only thing I can possibly do with my hair is pull it back in a ponytail, I have no clue what it would look like down anymore.

I have friends and neighbors like yours. I make fun of my best friend because she showers and puts on make up to go work out at the gym! I think that's hilarious. I'm all about comfort and convenience, I have no time for anything extra.

I just wanted to add that this is not something that changed about me once I started staying home with my kids. Before I was married I wore only minimal makeup to work but on weekends I never did. If I had a day off I showered, put my hair in a ponytail and chose comfortable clothes to enjoy my day in. This is how I was when my husband met me! If I suddenly had started wearing makeup and "styling" my hair every morning when I started staying at home my husband would have thought for sure that I was having an affair :-)!

K.

My routine is no make up and a pony tail or messy bun :) I stay in my pj's as long as i can! This doesnt make us lazy. I think this make us confident! I still think i am sexy in my pj's/sweats and ponytail ;)

I know you've got a bunch of responses, but just wanted to add a little. Unfortunately, at 29 I still have severe acne, and if I go the same route as my sisters, will still have it 10 years form now. I do put on the full on make-up most every day, because it doesn't work to do just some with my acne situation. I also usually do my hair most days as well. It does get old every day, but I just feel better when I am put together. There are days occasionally that I don't, but I do somehow feel less motivated to do things. I also prefer to be done up for my husband, not because he cares, I just feel more attractive to him when my acne is not overwhelming. :) SIlly, I know, but it works for me. I certainly don't judge people if they don't wear make-up etc. Everyone needs to do their own thing, and as long as everyone is neat and clean and shows respect for themselves, then who cares what everyone else thinks!

I had my boy;s when I was 21 and 23. Up until I wa 28, I did my hair and make up everyday. It was a must!! It seemed like after that it slowly went from everyday, to sometimes never. Im 32 now, and when I do it it's more for myself and not what others may think..

I do the whole 'dolled' up thing for work, but as soon as I get home- the hair goes up in a ponytail or a bun ( my hair is thick and long and it gets HOT here in Texas ) and shorts & a t-shirt.
On the weekends, my makeup is light.... little mascara, some lipgloss and face powder. I don't like to stay in my pajamas all day, it makes me feel unmotivated.
I have a thing about my eyes though, everything else can slide but I always have to wear mascara. If I have to run into a store real quick and I don't have mascara on...I keep my sunglasses on. lol Yea I know, I got issues with that.

I'm so lucky that my DH loves me best without makeup and hair done (he loves my hair off my face in a ponytail).

Before marrying my love, I used to feel beautiful only when my makeup and hair were done.

It has been LIBERATING to not have to do that daily. I actually feel more beautiful now than when I would do it all.

But on dates and formal occasions, I confess to primping up as much as I can (if only for my benefit).

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, not in a makeup case.

(:

What a great question, I look forward to reading the responses. I personally stay in my pjs as long as possible, like you said, I'm just going to make a mess of myself during the day. However, I am trying to make more of an effort to get that shower in and throw my face on and do my hair before my guy gets home, so I can look nice for him. I really got out of the habit of looking good when I was preggers, and now I'm trying to get back into it. He is the only person in the world who thinks I'm beautiful no matter what, so I make the extra effort for him. As far as the baggers at the grocery store, the mailman, my neighbors, my friends... they get to see me as the hot mess I am 80% of my day because I could care less! I'm not here to impress the world, I am here to impress my man and make him proud that I'm his woman. I will neverrr be that woman in full make up and dress all day, every day. It's not that I'm not clean, I JUST DON'T CARE WHAT EVERYONE ELSE THINKS, their opinions don't matter. Even if I did look nice, do you think anyone other than my BF is going to notice? No way! What a waste! Great question :)

I wanted to answer before I read what everyone else wrote. I am probably more like the average northwesterner. I am bathed every day! (wahoo) I wear clean clothes. Hair is brushed, face is usually shiny and clean. I am just pretty much all natural during my day. I can't imagine getting up every day and putting on my makeup and blowing out my hair. it takes a lot of time, and I personally would rather sleep! :) BUT, on the days where I do get up and get the makeup on and hair done I do notice that I feel "different" throughout the day. i don't know if it's because people treat me differently or if it's because I treat myself differently.
Either way, I am confident when I go out the door, shiny clean or made up!
L.

I've never done more than minimal make-up...mascara, eyebrow pencil, tinted lipgloss and, on the rare occasion, eye shadow and liner. These days I'm just as likely to skip the whole thing. Fortunately, I'm married to a man who hates makeup(and he's from Texas!) and prefers that I'm natural all the time.

Hair is pretty much the same thing...will "do it" 1 or 2 times a week when I'm going out for the evening and have always been this way.

Fortunately, living in Colorado seems to be perfect for my attitude. I moved here from NYC and natural wasn't as common.

I have short hair so I kind of have to do my hair but it takes 5 min and I did it that way on purpose! I dont get up everyday and "do" myself and I also stay in my jammies all day sometimes too! I have even taken a shower in the morning and put on clean pjs! lol My makeup is very very simple anyways and takss 5 to 10 min max to do so if mid day I do have to go somewhere I can throw it on if I want and if I dont then I dont! The people that get up every morning and "do" themselves baffle me but everybody has their own thing!

Thank you for bringing this up. You don't know how many times I have wished that I had the energy every day to doll up. I rarely doll up unless I'm going out to eat or for my hubby. If I'm working around the house, I just shower and throw on sweats and deodorant, that's it. I admire the women who have the chutzpah to doll up every day--wish I could, but just don't have the energy sometimes.

Hi Stacey - I just browsed through the posts but thought it was so interesting that anyone might think this a judgemental question. I was especially surprised by those who think anyone with a casual look was "lazy". Your post caught my eye mainly because I was refreshed that there are "normal" people out there who dont feel bound to their makeup bag and curling iron. My husband actually prefers me without a lot of makeup and I am so thankful for that. With that said, I have 2 little kids and I work from home so most days I pull my hair back in a pony tail, dab on a little mascara and some lip balm and I'm good for the day. It would of course be different if I worked outside the home where a little more attention would be warranted. But for every day things, I'm fine with keeping it simple.

i knew a woman years ago who did the same. part of it was because of her husband's attitude. it was important to him for her to look good and she enjoyed doing that for him. it also made her feel better about herself. but sometimes she was late to important things because she couldn't let go of the total makeup routine. she couldn't do minimal makeup and be satisfied. i felt that it was too extreme to spend 2 or more hours EVERY day getting ready. when i was not a mom, it was not unusual for me to spend 2 hours on my face, hair, and clothing. now i can often be seen walking with my son to the neighbors who he walks to school with in my pj's and gardening shoes, no makeup, but with my hair combed a bit. i am embarrassed by it, but i'd rather do this than get up before the kids. i also think my husband would love to see me dressed for the day before he leaves for work but that doesn't always happen either. and i almost never have makeup done before 9am. i don't choose to make getting myself ready early as much of a priority anymore.

i use expensive make-up. won't use any junk on my face but it lasts forever at least in my household because i only get all dolled up when i am going out. no, not to pick up kids or run to grocery store but more like bookstore, coffee shop, or a playdate at somebody's house. i am young, mid thirties, so i still look good au natural but hey why push luck :)

I'm lucky if I shower every 2-3 days! :-) Life with kids changes how much time I 'm able to spend on myself, and I'm not willing to set the alarm to beat them out of bed to do it! I usually put on make up 1-2 times a week and my hair, well its best friend is a pony tail holder! :-)

LOL. My biggest goal if I have nothing to do outside the house is to get showered at some point that day. I haven't worn make-up on a daily basis probably since I became pregnant the first time. But if I am going to go out, I try to look nice and not just have sweats on or something.

makeup for church on Sunday. if I don't drive to school, the robe stays on until eleven...

I am with u sister!! I love me some jammies!!!!. Some times I run to the store in them IF I need something right away! But I brush my teeth and hair and wash the face every morning, and the hair again if I have to go the store. But your friend, it is alittle extereme but thats her "THING" I believe eveyone has there "THING". Like me for example, I have to IRON when I am STRESSED. Everyone invites me to there house to do theres,on a really stressful I would probably DO IT!!.
So in away yes exereme but in away not.

I shower every day, but only put on my make-up and full on style my hair when running errands or going out. And this is coming from a professional make-up artist and hairstylist who has had work published in a magazine.

As a stay at home mom, I just can't handle layers of make-up on my face during the day as I'm working or passing out from exhaustion.

I'm on the same page as you ~ I don't care what others think.

= )

I try to do my hair daily because i truly look grody when I dont. I cut my own hair, (feathered) and I screw it up...when it is not styled it hangs down flat on my head.,but when it is styled it looks nice.
I also have rosacea. Which means i have a billion tiny broken capillaries which makes my face very red. If I know for sure I am staying in the house i only put on minimal face makeup in the worst sections, or none at all. If I am going out I always have face makeup and hair done. I do not care about any other makeup though.

I will say one thing- many men hate sweats on a woman. I mean, hate them. Men would rather see a woman somewhat put together, not meaning makeup (cause many men hate that too) but just general tidyness and regular clothing like jeans.

Personally, my routine gets tireing, and i wish i had just some natural beauty (nice skin). I would like to be more comfortable with being comfortable !

I do my make up about 3 times a week, and I do hate it when Ieave the house looking grungy. I do notice if people don't look nice but not everyone, and I've been really "forgiving" not that we should have to forgive people's looks but forgiving since I had my first child and I realized how different it is to be a Mom vs a career woman, especially someone who actually works with clients and sees people at work who care. A lot of the time I do my make up but not my hair. I think it looks nice up anyway, so it's not always worth the work when it only takes 2 minutes to do an up-do.

I do have some neighbors who always get completely ready for the day, some of them who babysit other's kids almost everyday. Some of them don't wear make up so them looking all done up is faster than someone w/ intensive make up. My SIL is like that, her make up takes her a long time and she buys expensive products. I can see how it would be kind of annoying to hear someone who wears make up for almost no reason at all complain about it's cost, when it would seem more economical to spare some for outings or something.

I didn't used to wear make up as much when I first become a mother, but I had a friend over for dinner and got all pretty and cleaned the house extra well removing clutter and my hubby noticed, and said he loves it when I get dressed up for him, not necessarily formal clothes, just trying to look nice. Since then I try to at least put on some eye liner and mascara.

Sounds like she's insecure. If she doesn't like doing it, and resents the money she spends on it, but does it anyway, she must not feel pretty enough without it.
I have found a hairstyle that requires me to just comb it and air dry, and I'm in heaven! I'll often slap on some concealer to hide the dark circles, and eyeliner and that's it. On Sundays I spend a little more time. But I usually spend like 2 minutes max. 15-20 minutes on hair and 7 minutes on make up would be either a nightmare ('cause that would never happen) or would mean that I just hired a maid and a nanny, so maybe it would be a dream come true?

I don't like staying in my pj's all day, though. it makes me feel cruddy, lazy-like. It's funny, when I was in college, I lived for the days when I didn't have to look presentable. Now I live for date night, when I can wear those special clothes (I'm talking boots with my jeans instead of flip flops or hikers, and a nicer shirt than what I wear for my kids), do my hair, and feel special.

I don't pay attention to makeup and hair so much on other people, but I am extremely put-off when people don't care enough about being in public to get dressed. Pajama pants and slippers are not made to be worn out of the house!!! (Well, going to the mailbox, maybe, but not the store or a doctor's appointment!)

I always wear mascara. I only have a few very sparse & stubby eyelashes. If I don't wear any mascara, then people ask me if I'm feeling ok because my eyes look so small & tired. I try to do my hair (if only a ponytail or clippy) and wear nice clothes (by that I mean jeans and a nice t-shirt/shirt) every day. Lately, I've been wearing a bit of bronzer too, to make myself "glow" a bit. On Sundays or if I have a date, I do wear eyeshadow, liner, blush, and lipstick too. But, some days we have "Pajama & movie" day at our house, where we wear jammies and watch movies all day. It is fun for the kids (& me--I get to stay comfy all day long). I don't wear sweats (I look to lumpy & frumpy in them), but I've been known to run to the grocery store in my jammies to buy OJ, medicine, or a special treat for my kids when they've been sick.

If I saw a woman who looked really beautiful without makeup & in sweats, I would be a bit envious of her being able to "pull it off". Likewise, if I saw someone in a full get-up of fancy hair, make-up, and clothes, I would wonder what time she got up in the morning to get it all done! I figure whatever a woman does to make herself feel "pretty" is up to her. I don't feel pretty unless I have my mascara on, but that is just me.

I want to be able to spend as much time with my kids as possible while they're young. I don't want to be using up that precious time in the bathroom getting ready. With 2 young kids, my sleep is also precious, so I don't want to get up extra early to get ready. As long as my kids are happy, well taken care of, and clean, that does so much more for my self esteem than looking all primped.

I think, as long as you're happy with the way you look when you leave the house (or don't leave the house), it shouldn't matter what others think. At the end of the day, if you can look at yourself in the mirror and truthfully say that your kids know you love them & they're happy, you've accomplished what you wanted, and that you are happy, that is all that matters!

Thanks for posting this question. It was funny & interesting to read all those answers!

Wow, sorry that people were so nasty to you. I don't always put make up on. Not even close actually. I am a SAHM and most of the time shower and get ready when my son is napping. So typically our morning activities I am without make up or my hair done. Granted I do feel better when I shower and get ready in the morning, but I don't always have time for that. And depending on the activity we have planned, I may not need to. I think its silly that people feel like they have to go out all done up all the time, but definitely understand that you do feel better about yourself when you do. My husband actually prefers me with less make up and my hair can air dry and look nice, so alot of times, getting ready for me means throwing on a little eye make up and calling it a day. When I was working I did always do my hair and put on make up, but certainly not to do errands. I am the same as you- I don't really care what the other people think that I may see at the grocery store.

To each is def own, but I prefer a pretty, fresh face. I think it just makes you feel better when you are showered, and ready, even if its a little makeup. It makes you actually want to get dressed. I always think about it like this: does my hunny really want to come home and see me the same way he left me? I dont think so and I dont believe it when they say they like less or no makeup. Its just they dont want anyone else looking at you! I have too many friends whose husbands say they dont like makeup but dont hesitate to gawk at those who do! I'm sure if you surprised your man just once all done up he would wonder what was up, and just might like the thought.

Personally, if you dont have nice skin au natural, bags or blemished you should wear something even if its tinted moisturizer to give yourself a rested, healty glow.

Based on your update I didn't read all the other posts...You know when I'm at work or just out I notice a mix of women who get dolled up and those who go more natural. I do my make up everyday for work and may or may not on weekends and most of the time my hair is washed and then put up in a big clip...it really just depends on what works for you and how you feel. Some things are more important to some folks....

Wow! So many answers! Personally, I "put on my face" every day- but that can vary on to what extent. Most days it takes me less than 10 minutes to put on my makeup, and I have very long wavy hair, so it usually ends up in a ponytail or I'll straighten it (which takes another 15). I do honestly feel better when I have my makeup done, but sometimes, that only consists of foundation, mascara and lipgloss- which takes less than 2 minutes.
I know a lot of moms that never put makeup on unless it's a special event, and they look great! I just happen to not be one of them! Lol!
I do workout daily though, and if I go to a class later in the day instead of running early in the morning, I may stay in my workout gear for the rest of the day. But even then, I never wear sweats, I try to wear something a little nicer looking than that. I say whatever works for each person is great! To each their own!

With me personally, when I was younger I used to do the whole makeup and hair thing but now I couldn't care less. Usually my hair goes up in a pony first thing in the morning and I usually don't wear any makeup at all. On rare occasions, I might actually do a full face, but on a normal day to day thing I might wear some eyeliner and lipgloss IF I do anything at all. And I'm with you...love my jammies! But usually I'm sleeping in some yoga pants and a t-shirt anyway; I just like to be comfortable. But I have a friend that will not let anyone see her without her "face" including her husband. We went out garage sale-ing super early one Saturday and even then she had full face paint! Most days I just have better things to do than to spend a half hour or 45 mins doing the hair and makeup thing.

I have weeks where I will do my makeup daily. I only wash my hair every couple of days, and never style it, so that's a moot point. The makeup for me is just a part of my routine. I prefer to see myself "done". I only do concealer under my eyes, flesh toned shadow, and mascara though. I never do my face like I'm trying to look made-up. I just don't like looking as tired as I am, and I don't really want other people to see me that way either.

For older women especially there is a mentality and culture of always wanting to be seen at their best. It's just part of older generations. Nothing bad at all. If she's complaining about the cost of make-up and hair-care, maybe suggest that she can get less expensive make-up and hair-care if she truly needed it, and if not- the local coupon books usually have coupons for that sort of stuff too!

I don't care what people do with themselves as long as their comfortable with what they're doing.

Stacey,
um, ya you have 56 answer that I think probably say what I'm about to.... your neighbor friend is nuts! ;) I'm sure she looks great, and ya I feel a little bit better about me when I've got my hair and at least some eye make up on... but I seriously don't have time. :)

Livin it up in my PJ's too!!!
V.

I do get up every morning.. shower do make up ( not much) and brush my hair, but its because it makes me feel refreshed like I am ready to face the day... I dont go all out, unless I am going out or something... but wow your neighbor must have lots of time on her hands! With three kids.. I barely find time to sleep!

I work 4 days a week. On the days I work I do have fixed hair and full make up when I walk out the door. At first I foudn this a challenge with a 7 month old but then I discovered the wonder of the satin pillowcase. (I am normally a shower in the morning person) Now i take a shower at night, sleep on the satin pillowcase bc it won't make my hair matted, wake up straighten my hair (takes 15 minutes) and put on full make up (10 minutes).

On the 3 days I'm at home I do my hair but no make up unless i know i am going somewhere.
I also never skip a shower, even if i just think I'm going to be home that whole next day not leaving my house. No showers make me feel nasty

I get up to run every day at 5:15 so I have time to shower and fix myself up before my kids awake. (my kids are 5, 4 and 2) I fix my hair and put on make-up every morning whether I am going somewhere or not. Partly because I am a Mary Kay consultant and I feel that I cannot properly work or promote my business without appearing put together with proper hair and make-up. I also feel better with a little make-up on. The other reason is that I want to look my best for my husband. Not that he cares either way, but I want him to see that I put an effort in to look good for him.

i say more power to her. she has the time and energy to squeeze that in thats cool. i dont get that ready anymore. i should . husbands need to be reminded of what they got.

I'm late on replying but I do put make up (always foundation and mascara I've never been big on blush or lip stick, sometimes eyeshadow depending on what I'm wearing) on everyday and I "style" my hair, I usually have products in it but I don't blow dry its naturally curly and I let it air dry. I'm not insecure or vain or have no confidence. I like to look nice when I got out and I like to look nice when my hubby comes home from work.

I work at a place where we have to dress business professional and my routine is 10 minutes in the morning, teeth brushing taking the longest. I wear powder, but only base if I've broken out extensively, and my hair goes in a quick bun every day. I have better things to worry about.

Wow sounds like you got a lot of respones!

I put on makeup and do my hair Mon-Friday for work. Sometimes I can get away with not really doing my hair and minimal makeup. So all out makeup and hair, I say I do it 1x a week!

Weekends are makeup free unless we go somewhere. Same thing with the hair.

Some people enjoy it and can afford it. Everybody needs a hobby, but it's not my cup of tea. All I can wear is a little lipstick or lip gloss from time to time. Everything else makes me break out (even the hypoallergenic stuff). My husband has never been one to admire a painted lady look, but then he thinks I'm cute when I come in from the garden almost covered in dirt and mud.

I think it's about self esteem and what causes you to have it.

I'm not suggesting that putting on makeup gives a person self esteem.

However, it defeinitely helps with mine. I'm not a person that looks good with no makeup on (and for the record, my makeup is soft and natural. Just enhances my face). For my hair, that's a MUST to wash everyday. I have very oily hair normally, so if I don't wash it then a) it doesn't smell good, and b) hangs in greasy little strings around my face.

So I do some form of hair and makeup everyday. I just feel better about myself when I do. Even if I'm just taking the kids to the playground. It even makes me feel better when I'm sick.

I personally rarely wear makeup. I do put on moisturizer, some vaseline on my lips, brush my hair and put it in a hair clip or ponytail though. My sister however is like your neighbor. She doesn't leave her house without her face...and that's exactly how she refers to it...LOL. Even on Black Friday when we leave at 2:30am to get to the stores she's in full face. I laugh but if it makes her feel better I certainly have no issues with it. On my part I don't not put makeup on because I'm lazy. I have two small children that are up at 5:30-6am and go to bed at 9...inbetween I barely have time to pee so I'd rather take the potty break then put on a face :)

I don't think I agree with the overall census.

Me - Don't do my makeup (most mornings - never Full) and hair (pretty much Ever). I have never been much of a girly girl, look a lot younger than my age (I'm 31, most people think I'm around 18-20 & are shocked I have a PhD & two boys).

If this is what you like to do - good for you if you like it & feel good about. I feel bad for you if you feel like you "have" to. If you don't & are happy about it, good for you. If you wish you could, find time (somehow, I know it's tough) for you!

Updated

I don't think I agree with the overall census.

Me - Don't do my makeup (most mornings - never Full) and hair (pretty much Ever). I have never been much of a girly girl, look a lot younger than my age (I'm 31, most people think I'm around 18-20 & are shocked I have a PhD & two boys).

If this is what you like to do - good for you if you like it & feel good about. I feel bad for you if you feel like you "have" to. If you don't & are happy about it, good for you. If you wish you could, find time (somehow, I know it's tough) for you!