When it comes to the time women dedicate to their appearance—hair, makeup, skincare, fashion—the opinions are as varied as the shades in a lipstick palette. Some argue it’s a frivolous waste, a societal trap that chains women to vanity. Others see it as a justified act of self-care, empowerment, or even artistry. So, where does the truth lie? Let’s unpack this polarizing topic with a clear-eyed look at both sides.
The Case for "Overrated"
Critics often point out that the hours spent on beauty routines could be redirected to "more productive" pursuits—career growth, hobbies, or intellectual endeavors. Data backs this up to an extent: a 2017 study by the University of Chicago found that women spend an average of 55 minutes daily on grooming (compared to 33 minutes for men). Over a lifetime, that’s thousands of hours. In a world that demands efficiency, it’s easy to see why some label this time as excessive.
Then there’s the societal pressure angle. Women are bombarded with unrealistic beauty standards—think airbrushed ads and filtered influencers. The expectation to look "put-together" can feel like a tax on being female, one that men largely dodge. Critics argue that this pressure inflates the time spent on looks, not out of genuine desire but out of fear of judgment. In this view, the beauty industry thrives on manufactured insecurities, pushing products and routines that keep women tethered to the mirror.
The Case for "Justified"
On the flip side, many women see their beauty routines as deeply personal and purposeful. For some, it’s self-expression—makeup as a canvas, fashion as storytelling. A 2021 survey by Allure found that 63% of women felt more confident when they liked their appearance, and confidence can ripple into every aspect of life, from job interviews to social interactions. If a 20-minute skincare routine or a bold lip boosts someone’s mental health, who’s to call it wasted time?
There’s also the argument of agency. Women aren’t mindless drones slathering on serums because a billboard told them to. Many choose to invest in their looks because it feels good, aligns with their values, or even serves as a ritual of control in a chaotic world. Take the rise of "clean beauty" or sustainable fashion—women are increasingly deliberate about what they use and wear, blending aesthetics with ethics.
And let’s not ignore practicality. Like it or not, appearance matters in our visual culture. Studies, like one from Princeton in 2019, show that well-groomed individuals are often perceived as more competent or likable. For women, who still face harsher scrutiny in professional and social settings, time spent on looks can be a strategic investment, not just vanity.
The Middle Ground
The truth likely sits in the messy middle. Yes, societal pressures can inflate the time women spend on their appearance, sometimes to an exhausting degree. But dismissing it all as shallow ignores the joy, confidence, and intentionality many women find in the process. The real issue isn’t the time itself—it’s whether that time feels like a choice or a mandate.
So, is it overrated or justified? It depends on the woman and her why. If she’s sculpting her brows out of passion or purpose, that’s as valid as spending an hour at the gym or reading a book. But if she’s chasing an unattainable ideal out of obligation, maybe it’s time to question the system, not her choices.
What do you think—where do you draw the line? Share your thoughts below, and let’s keep this conversation going.