New Study Reveals That Female Psychopaths Are Less Likely To Wear Makeup—Find Out The Reason Behind This Behavior

In a world obsessed with appearances, makeup has become a social tool for many women. Whether it's a swipe of lipstick before a date or a touch of mascara for that important work meeting, makeup is often used to enhance one’s looks or boost confidence. 

But here’s where things get a little wild—a new study suggests that women with higher psychopathic traits may actually skip the makeup altogether. Wait, what? 

That’s right, according to researchers from the University of São Paulo, Brazil, female “psychopaths” are less likely to reach for that eyeliner or blush. And the reason behind it is pretty fascinating.

The study, which involved over 1,400 Brazilian women, looked at makeup habits in various social settings, from the gym to the boardroom. Women were asked to report how often they used cosmetics and then took a survey to assess their "Dark Triad" traits—Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy. 

The results were surprising but clear: women who scored higher in psychopathic traits were less likely to wear makeup, while those scoring higher in narcissism were the queens of cosmetics.

So what’s going on here? Dr. Anthonieta Looman Mafra, one of the study’s lead researchers, suggests that psychopathy’s hallmark traits—charm, assertiveness, and fearlessness—mean these women don’t feel the need to enhance their appearance. 

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Could it be that skipping the mascara and blush have a much deeper meaning than simply "rushing off to work"?

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Psychopathy is a complex and severe mental disorder marked by a chilling absence of empathy, impulsive behavior, and a tendency to flout societal norms.

Those who exhibit psychopathic traits often blend into society with a façade of charm and charisma, while underneath lies an exploitative and manipulative nature.

A relationship expert noted that the societal narrative around beauty and makeup can create pressure for women to conform, which may not resonate with those exhibiting psychopathic traits. Understanding this disconnect can provide valuable insights into women's choices.

Moreover, acknowledging the psychological factors influencing these decisions can pave the way for more inclusive discussions about beauty standards. By focusing on self-acceptance rather than external validation, women can create a more authentic sense of self that transcends societal expectations.

Confidence level: psychopath

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Interestingly, while "psychopathy" often pops up in conversations about certain troubling behaviors, it’s not an official diagnosis. In the clinical world, however, doctors rely on the more formal term "antisocial personality disorder" (ASPD) when making an official diagnosis.

Scientists believe that these women don't bother with makeup since their charm and assertiveness do all the talking for them.

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According to Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, a prominent happiness researcher, the relationship between self-image and behavior can be complex. His work emphasizes that individuals with higher psychopathic traits may not feel the societal pressures that often drive makeup usage among women. This lack of concern for appearance can stem from a diminished sense of empathy and emotional connection, traits often associated with psychopathy.

As Dr. Ben-Shahar suggests on his website, fostering a healthy self-image through self-compassion can lead to better emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships. Understanding this dynamic provides a unique perspective on how makeup usage might vary among different psychological profiles.

Why bother with foundation when you can capture attention with your natural charm and assertive demeanor?

After all, makeup is often used as a tool to influence others’ perceptions, and according to the study, psychopathic women seem to have no need for that extra boost. They already feel in control.

It's important to note that the findings don’t suggest that all makeup-free women are psychopaths

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According to Dr. Anthonieta Looman Mafra, the findings don’t suggest that all makeup-free women are psychopaths—nor do they imply that makeup lovers are narcissists. 

In Dr. Mafra's words, "...while narcissism was linked to higher makeup usage, psychopathy was associated with lower usage. However, this doesn’t imply moral judgments about these traits or makeup habits.”

Interestingly, this study also touches on the broader conversation about how psychopathic traits differ between genders

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Dr. Clive Boddy from Anglia Ruskin University revealed that, unlike male psychopaths, their female counterparts often use words rather than violence to achieve their goals.

This could explain why they’re more subtle in their behaviors, including how they present themselves. 

The prevalence of female psychopaths has often flown under the radar, with their numbers underestimated and their presence largely overlooked.

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Makeup and Self-Perception

Dr. Daniel Goleman, an expert in emotional intelligence, highlights the importance of self-perception in social interactions. In his research, he notes that those with emotional deficits, like some female psychopaths, may not prioritize makeup as a tool for social acceptance.

This insight into behavior suggests that self-awareness and emotional understanding can significantly influence choices regarding appearance. Goleman's work indicates that fostering emotional intelligence in women can lead to more conscious choices about self-presentation, potentially bridging the gap between societal norms and personal identity.

The expert added that while female psychopaths may not exhibit the same extreme or frequent psychopathy as their male counterparts, their presence has been vastly underestimated.

This oversight makes them a more significant threat to business and society than anyone had initially realized.

As usual, the internet found the perfect shade of sarcasm to highlight these study results.

Ummm...well....don't conclude just yet

Who knows?!

Exploring the implications of this study, psychologists like Dr. Kristin Neff, who specializes in self-compassion, suggest that women should focus on self-acceptance rather than conforming to societal standards. By emphasizing self-worth beyond physical appearance, women can cultivate a healthier relationship with makeup.

Dr. Neff encourages women to engage in practices that promote self-kindness, mindfulness, and common humanity. These approaches can empower women to make choices that align with their true selves, whether that means embracing makeup or choosing to go without.

Lucky you

Are we just diagnosing ourselves at this point?

It’s official; everyone’s a little off—makeup or not

Practical Improvements

To enhance emotional well-being and self-image, experts recommend adopting mindfulness practices. Dr. Shawn Achor, a leading figure in positive psychology, emphasizes that mindfulness can increase awareness of one's thoughts and feelings, leading to better emotional regulation.

Integrating mindfulness into daily routines—like meditation or breathing exercises—can help individuals, regardless of their psychological traits, become more in tune with their self-perception. This practice can potentially lead to healthier choices regarding makeup and self-presentation, fostering a sense of empowerment and authenticity.

Might be onto something..

Does she?

Why bother with foundation when you can win people over with your natural wit and charm? After all, makeup is often used as a tool to influence others’ perceptions, and according to the study, psychopathic women seem to have no need for that extra boost. They already feel in control.

You see, psychopathy is a complex and often misunderstood personality trait. It’s not an official diagnosis (doctors prefer the term “antisocial personality disorder”), but it does encompass a range of behaviors, from ruthlessness and fearlessness to charm and assertiveness.

But before you toss out your makeup bag in a fit of existential crisis, let’s break it down. According to Dr. Anthonieta Looman Mafra, the findings don’t suggest that all makeup-free women are psychopaths—nor do they imply that makeup lovers are narcissists. 

Instead, the study explores how these traits can influence behaviors like makeup usage in different social contexts. In other words, makeup might just be one of many tools in a psychological toolbox, and not everyone feels the need to use it.

Interestingly, this study also touches on the broader conversation about how psychopathic traits differ between genders. Dr. Clive Boddy from Anglia Ruskin University adds that female psychopaths often use words rather than violence to achieve their goals.

This could explain why they’re more subtle in their behaviors, including how they present themselves. 

So, what’s the takeaway here? If you’re not a fan of makeup, don’t worry—you’re probably just someone who prefers the natural look.

But if you ever encounter someone whose charm feels a little too effortless, you might want to keep an eye out.

Analysis & Recommendations

In conclusion, the relationship between female psychopathy and makeup usage offers a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of self-perception and societal norms. Experts like Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar and Dr. Daniel Goleman remind us of the importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in navigating these dynamics.

By fostering self-compassion, as advocated by professionals like Dr. Kristin Neff, women can cultivate a healthier relationship with their self-image and makeup choices. Ultimately, embracing one's individuality can lead to more fulfilling expressions of identity, free from societal pressures.