1. They’re confident.
Confidence is sexy, and it persuades people. Rock a day with no makeup like it’s the new thing, and don’t be surprised if others follow along.
2. They create more “wow” moments.
We all love a good transformation scene, when a lovable girl gets dressed up and captivates an entire room. We saw it in The Princess Diaries, A Walk to Remember, A Cinderella Story, and other classic movies. These breathtaking moments are made possible by girls who don’t go to the grocery store dressed like they’re going to prom.
3. They’re more kissable.
If you’re looking for five words to kill romance, try, “Don’t mess up my makeup.” On a similar note, my wife is a big fan of lipstick, which looks great on her but not so much on me. Sometimes, this spoils opportunities for a romantic kiss.
4. They’re not afraid to sweat.
I love it when girls join in a game of volleyball or soccer — the whole experience is way more fun. Similar to the kissing argument, it makes me sad to see a girl opt-out because she’s afraid to sweat off her makeup. Go for it!
5. They don’t monopolize the bathroom.
When we first got married, my wife and I lived in a tiny apartment with one, single-sink bathroom. Getting ready was a lot simpler on days when she didn’t wear makeup.
6. They put less pressure on my appearance.
Hey, don’t judge me! It’s nice to have a day when I can dress casually and relax without feeling like a total slob.
7. They’re not afraid to be authentic.
Attraction is certainly important in a relationship, and we all have occasions when we want to put our best foot forward. But equally crucial to a healthy relationship is intimacy, feeling like you truly know a person. I find it refreshing to share life with a woman who’s comfortable in her own skin.
8. They save money.
I didn’t put this one first because I didn’t want to sound naggy, but I’m perpetually shocked by how expensive makeup is. If you can make mascara last longer by giving it the day off now and then, you won’t hear me complaining.
9. They’re free to be more spontaneous.
When a fun opportunity presents itself like last-minute concert tickets, sometimes you have to hop in the car and go for it. Memories like these never happen if you refuse to leave the house without an hour to get ready.
10. They know the value of inner beauty.
Not all beauty is obvious. Many precious forms are hidden in qualities such as kindness, bravery, and perseverance. It’s hard not to be attracted to a girl who knows there’s more to beauty than a moment in a mirror.
11. They help others feel accepted.
Life can feel like one big competition as people constantly vie for power and popularity. It’s so relaxing and inspiring to be around someone who’s brave enough to drop the act and just be herself.
12. They have more inner peace.
Some people run themselves ragged trying to impress others through their appearance, and according to Australian Instagram star Essena O’Neil, it can be exhausting. “Without realizing, I’ve spent majority of my teenage life being addicted to social media, social approval, social status and my physical appearance…I was surrounded by all this wealth and all this fame and all this power and yet they were all miserable, and I had never been more miserable.” Props to the girls who reject the game and save some energy for more meaningful pursuits.
13. They demonstrate maturity.
Life’s not perfect. Some days you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world, and others you’ll just want to crawl back into bed. When life throws a curve ball, it’s the people with the right priorities who have the chance to shine. I deeply respect women who can conquer a day without makeup and who practice, as Michele Cushatt beautifully puts it, “making peace with an imperfect life.”
