I’ve always gone back and forth between “less is more” and “why not have fun with it?” when it comes to beauty. Some mornings I love the look of bare skin, just a little moisturizer and lip balm. Other days, I enjoy the full routine—foundation, contour, highlighter, the works.

I don’t think beauty has to be one or the other. It can shift day to day, depending on mood, energy, or even the weather. The balance, I’ve realized, is in not feeling pressured to choose one forever. Natural beauty is wonderful. Enhancements are fun. Both can exist together.

At the end of the day, beauty is about how we feel in our own skin. If a little mascara gives me confidence, or going barefaced makes me feel free, both choices are valid.