$20 off any product purchase with a makeup lesson in February. • $20 off any product purchase with a makeup lesson in February. • $20 off any product purchase with a makeup lesson in February. • $20 off any product purchase with a makeup lesson in February. • $20 off any product purchase with a makeup lesson in February. •

Honestly beautiful, exquisitely you.

Makeup Lessons Are Self-Care, Not Vanity: How Makeup Builds Confidence and Well-Being. 

Close-up of a woman getting eye makeup done in the The Honest Image studio.

Featured, Makeup Tips

January 9, 2026

A lot of people think makeup is just makeup. A swipe of lipstick, a little mascara, something “extra”. But beneath all of that is something much more meaningful. Research and everyday experience show that makeup can be a form of self-care, a confidence-builder, and a tool for positive self-expression.  

As someone who teaches makeup lessons here in Albuquerque, I see every day how makeup does more than help my clients look good. It helps them feel good. People leave my studio feeling empowered and stepping back into their lives with more courage. I’ve seen women take their first steps after significant loss, mature clients recognize themselves again, and exhausted moms reclaim a quiet hour just for themselves. These moments are tender, powerful, and a beautiful reminder of how soothing and uplifting makeup can be. 

Why Makeup Is More Than a “Superficial” Thing 

With influencer culture dominating the conversation, it’s easy to see why makeup gets misunderstood. People often assume it’s about hiding flaws or chasing perfection, when in reality, the heart of makeup is much softer. A recent article in Medical & Research reports that simple grooming rituals can lift mood, reduce stress, and improve self-perception. The truth is that most of us feel this instinctively because intentional self-care creates an emotional shift before we even see the results.

Makeup brushes and a palette arranged on a table.

How Makeup Builds Confidence & Well-Being 

Here are four ways makeup supports emotional wellness: 

  1. It Helps You Reconnect With Yourself – Life changes can shift how you see yourself, whether you’re navigating aging, illness, grief, or a new chapter like motherhood. A simple makeup routine can help you reconnect with the version of yourself you’ve been missing. 
  2. It Gives You a Sense of Control –  The world can feel unpredictable, and some days everything hits at once. Spending a few quiet minutes in front of the mirror offers a moment of calm and control.
  3. It Makes Self-Care Feel Real and Doable– Self-care doesn’t always look like big rituals or hours of free time. Sometimes it’s as small as learning a technique that makes your morning easier or finding a color that makes you feel refreshed. 
  4. It Supports Confidence in a Genuine Way –  Makeup doesn’t change who you are. It simply brings forward what’s already there. When you feel good about how you show up in the world, it naturally shifts how you carry yourself throughout the day. 

A Real Client Story: Rediscovering Confidence 

Before-and-after transformation showing a client’s refreshed look at The Honest Image.

This testimonial is one of my favorites because it captures exactly what our makeup lessons in Albuquerque are meant to do: 

“Such an uplifting experience! After illness, recovery, and aging left me looking and feeling discouraged with my appearance, Marla helped me rediscover myself. No joke. I left feeling like pieces of a puzzle were put back into place. Afterward, when I looked in the mirror, I recognized myself again. 

Marla was so welcoming and easy. I shared my insecurities, and she shared her knowledge. The Glo makeup products I tried really impressed me, and I loved that she used a lot of my own makeup instead of pushing new products. I went in feeling self-conscious and left feeling more self-confident. Highly recommend.” 
— Lorri T. 

Makeup Lessons at The Honest Image 

Marla, owner of The Honest Image, seated with her makeup brushes.

If you’re ready to feel refreshed, more confident, or simply curious about what your best everyday look could be, I’m here for you. Whether you’re preparing for a special event, moving through a life transition, or just craving a little pampering, we’ll create a look (and a routine!) that fits your features, lifestyle, and comfort level. 

Here are our makeup lesson options in Albuquerque: 

  • Part One Lesson – Full-face lesson, take-home tip sheet + a special gift (60–90 min).
  • Part Two Lesson – More practice + advanced tips (60 min).
  •  Makeup Lessons for Two or Three – A pampering, fun session for moms, daughters, sisters, or besties.
  • Makeup for Special Occasions – One-hour session for headshots, galas, events, parties, or photoshoots.

For more details or questions, feel free to send us a message anytime. I’m happy to be a part of your journey.