The Feel-Good Face: How Makeup Can Boost Your Mood (According to Science)

My earliest introduction to makeup came from playing with my mom’s products. I’d cover my lids in colorful shadow and slick my lips with sparkle, turning my face into a canvas to create whatever work of glittering, rainbow art fit my mood. But as I got older and was introduced to concealer and foundation—which I wore religiously to cover up my acne scars—makeup became less about having fun and more about hiding the parts of myself that society said weren’t beautiful.

For years, I didn’t think twice about it. Makeup was something I used to "fix" myself—to make my skin look smoother and my lips look fuller. It wasn’t until I stopped wearing it during the pandemic that I realized how much of my beauty routine was tied to self-criticism instead of self-expression. When I finally started wearing makeup again, something shifted. I wasn’t reaching for concealer first—I was reaching for glitter, color, and bold lips. I wasn’t trying to hide anymore. I was trying to feel good.

As it turns out, there’s actual science behind that shift. Studies show that certain colors, textures, and even the ritual of applying makeup can have a direct impact on your mood. It’s why a swipe of red lipstick can make you feel powerful, why a dewy finish can help you pretend you got a good night’s sleep, and why playing with bright colors can actually boost dopamine levels.

So, how can you use mood-boosting makeup to your advantage? And what does science say about the connection between beauty and mental health? Let’s dive in.

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The Science Behind Mood-Boosting Makeup

Makeup can play a major role in how we present ourselves to the world, but its power goes far beyond aesthetics—it’s very much an emotional and psychological tool, too. Science backs up the idea that certain colors, textures, and routines can impact our mood, confidence, and even energy levels.

Color Psychology

• Red = power and confidence: Studies show that people wearing red (which is associated with power and energy) are perceived as more attractive, assertive, and even dominant, which explains why a single swipe of red lipstick can make you feel like you’re running the world (or at least your next meeting).

• Pink and peach tones = warmth and approachability: The just-pinched flush of pink and peach blush mimics the natural rush of blood to the skin when we’re excited, in love, or well-rested—which cues our brains to associate the look with vibrance.