As a woman with cerebral palsy [1], a condition that means my hands can often be shaky [2], I have always had a difficult time applying makeup [3] and feeling beautiful. As I have grown older, I've realized that beauty is subjective and not as important as I once thought. However, I still like to wear cute clothes and accessories and put on makeup sometimes.
Ahead, I have pulled together some beauty products for folks who are also living with cerebral palsy. This list includes three products that have made it easier for me to apply makeup. Please note that what works for me may not work for everyone.
Essence Lash Princess Mascara
Applying mascara is particularly tricky for me as I blink a lot and I have a hard time gripping small wands. A few years ago, I found a mascara with a thick tube that helps me get a good grip: Essence Lash Princess [4] ($5). Perfect for anyone who may not be able to hold traditional mascara wands, the formula and brush also give my lashes more volume than most mascaras.
Pixi Liquid Fairy Lights
I have never been able to wear eyeliner on my upper lash line. Pixi's Liquid Fairy Lights [5] ($15) technically isn't an eyeliner (it's an eyeshadow topper), but I use it as both. I just apply it on my upper lash line or wear it over eyeshadow, and I love the glittery effect. I currently have the shade Crystalline, which is a white glitter with silver and green flecks of sparkle. I want to venture out into more daring colors like Lagoon or Green, but they are $15, so I can't buy too many at once. For those who haven't had any luck with eyeliner, I recommend giving this a try.
L'Oreal Pro Matte Liquid Lipstick
While I've been able to apply lipstick fairly well, the applicator or L'Oreal's Pro Matte Liquid Lipstick [6] ($11) ensures that I have a crisp line. For those with shaky hands, the applicator makes it easier to get a precise application. The formula is slightly sticky, which may bother people with sensory issues, but it doesn't bother me too much. I have it in the shade Shake Down, which is a deep brown, and it stays put all day. Since liquid lipsticks are drying, this isn't something I wear every day, but it's perfect when I want to rock a bold lip that won't budge.
As I mentioned earlier, beauty is subjective. Women (and people of other marginalized genders) with disabilities particularly face the pressure of not meeting conventional standards of beauty. That being said, I encourage everyone to wear and do what makes them feel confident.