A high school friend I hadn't seen in a long time unexpectedly asked me this question.
"Do you do cosmetic surgery?"
That day, I wore only sunscreen and no foundation. Receiving compliments on my 57-year-old skin prompted me to reflect on my journey with my skin up to this point.
The struggles I went through before giving up foundation, the realization that I could accept my bare skin, the things I avoided for the sake of my skin, and my current thoughts on natural versus chemical products.
I've compiled all 8 episodes in order.
Episode 1 | The story of being asked, "Do you do cosmetic surgery?"
During a barbecue with high school friends, I was suddenly asked, "Do you do cosmetic surgery?"
This story began when I received compliments on my foundation-free skin at the age of 57, which was only protected by sunscreen.
Episode 2 - Bonus Episode | Thoughts on Eating Venison
My first experience cooking and eating venison led me to reflect on the relationship between humans, wild animals, and nature.
I wrote about the realities that cannot be solved by simply feeling sorry for the victims, and about the responsibilities that humans must fulfill.
▶ Read Episode 2 - Bonus Chapter
Episode 3 | My 57-year-old's praised skin is because I stopped doing "a certain thing"
I used to wear foundation 365 days a year.
The biggest turning point that led to my current skin condition was when I stopped using foundation and cleanser.
Episode 4 | The struggle of giving up foundation
I want to stop wearing foundation for the sake of my skin. But I'm afraid to go outside with bare skin that's dull and has visible pores.
I wrote about the unvarnished struggles I faced before finally going foundation-free.
Episode 5 | This is how I was able to stop wearing foundation
I used to be so concerned about how others saw me, but then I realized something.
The person who was most critical of me wasn't the people around me, but myself.
Episode 6 | Things that became easier after I stopped wearing foundation
You can wipe your face or wash it with water without worrying about sweat or makeup smudging.
What I gained from giving up foundation was not only a reduction in the burden on my skin, but also a sense of freedom and comfort every day.
Episode 7 | Things I've Avoided for the Sake of My Skin
Resting one's chin on one's hand, touching one's face, using a rough towel, using hot water.
Instead of using any special beauty treatments, I've gradually eliminated everyday habits that were stressing my skin.
Episode 8 - Final Episode | Are chemicals absolutely forbidden?
Why I, the president of a company that deals in natural products, chose a DEET-75% insect repellent.
I've written about the thoughts I've arrived at, going beyond the simplistic dichotomy of "natural is good, chemical is bad."
summary
As I wrote this eighth chapter, I was reminded that there isn't just one right answer to the questions of whether or not to use foundation, or whether to go for a natural or chemical look.
Take a moment to pause and reflect on the "taken-for-granted" things we usually follow without thinking.
Don't become numb to your own preconceptions or common sense decided by others.
By sharpening your senses, you'll begin to see a world you've never seen before.
I cherish those days.
🌿 57-year-old store manager: Are you undergoing cosmetic surgery? (Series)
- I was asked, "Do you do cosmetic surgery?"
- Bonus Episode | Thoughts on Eating Venison
- My 57-year-old's praised skin is because I stopped doing "a certain thing".
- The struggle of giving up foundation
- This allowed me to stop using foundation.
- Things that became easier after I stopped wearing foundation
- Things I've avoided for the sake of my skin
- Are chemicals absolutely forbidden? * Final episode
- Summary of all 8 episodes | A 57-year-old store manager who goes without foundation is asked, "Do you do cosmetic surgery?"
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