This Is One Powerful Makeup Video

Makeup vloggers have been making waves in the beauty industry for years, but it seems that only recently have many taken a stand on the power of makeup, and how using it to highlight your features, or just try a new look can be just as empowering as going completely makeup-free. Youtube vlogger Em Ford created "YOU LOOK DISGUSTING", a video that illustrates the damaging effects of society's unrealistic beauty standards.

According to the video, Ford, who is the face behind popular YouTube channel My Pale Skin, began uploading images of herself without any makeup a few months ago to her social media accounts. She received thousands of messages and comments — some good, and many bad. Ford is one of many adults who struggles with acne, and was sent tons of cyberbullying messages of hate, where random strangers judged the appearance of her skin. Because of the comments, Ford decided to take matters into her own hands, and spread a message of awareness.

On the video, Ford writes:

I wanted to create a film that showed how social media can set unrealistic expectations on both women and men. One challenge many face today, is that as a society, we're so used to seeing false images of perfection, and comparing ourselves to unrealistic beauty standards that It can be hard to remember the most important thing — You ARE beautiful.

Ford uses the brief video to share messages she recieved in the most empowering way.

The video starts with images of Ford without any makeup, with words from social media comments scrolling by, from "Her face is so ugly" to "Seriously... has she ever washed her face?"

Then, Ford begins the process of applying a full face of makeup, from concealer to foundation to eyebrow powder, showing off her skill as an artist.

After her makeup is complete, Ford shares the much more positive comments on her appearance from social media.

But to some, her wearing makeup is considered wrong because she's "lying" about her true appearance. Commenters said hateful things like "this is why I have trust issues" and "this should be illegal"

After removing her makeup once again, Ford ends with a simple message: "You look beautiful."

It's so important to keep Ford's message in mind, whether you have difficult skin, wear loads of makeup, or have never applied mascara. Everyone should be able to feel confident, with or without makeup. And living in a world where social media haters seem to have way too much time on their hands, it's difficult to keep your self esteem high. But just remember Ford's words, and hopefully we'll all learn a little something about beauty.

Check out the full video below. Warning — have a box of Kleenex handy.

Images: My Pale Skin/ YouTube