Real vs. Fake

Let's talk lashes.

On one side, there are fake eyelashes, affectionately known as "falsies."
On the other, are varying types of mascara. For example, Benefit Cosmetics' "They're Real!" mascara.

It seems like, when it comes to eyelashes, everyone wants them bigger and bolder. But why the battle between what's "fake" and what's "real"?

Lashes are only one example of this battle. Beauty itself is often seen as something that is fake. The phrase, "beauty is only skin deep" is often used to condemn an interest in outward appearances. It shifts focus to "inner" beauty (generally consisting of a person's interests and character traits).

But really, it's not that simple.

Yes, too much focus on cosmetics is harmful to all of us. But a person can be "fake" on the inside. And a person's interest in cosmetics and appearances can be completely genuine. A makeup artist's work is not shallow just because they're changing someone's appearance. When people look good, they feel good, and when they feel good, their personality shines. Inner and outer beauty may not be the same, but they're not as separated as people seem to think.

In the same way, fake eyelashes and mascara are too similar to separate. They both give their wearers a boost, but in different ways. False eyelashes are actual imitations of human eyelashes, secured with glue. Mascara is combed onto the eyelashes with a tiny brush, coating the lashes and making them look bigger. Either way, the original eyelashes are still there, and the person wearing them is the same person.

So, falsies or real lashes? Either will do. A little makeup won't change who we are.