Makeup Or Break Up

Dear Mistress Maeve,

I recently started dating a girl I really like. She's the coolest girl I've met in a while, but there's one thing I can't stand. She wears too much makeup. She looks okay during the week (she works in a conservative office), but when we go out on the weekends, she piles on the makeup. She wears really bright colors on her eyes, and I can't stand to kiss her because of all the lip gloss. I don't want to hurt her feelings, but I'm a little embarrassed to be seen with her. My friends have even given her the nickname "Tammy Faye." How do I tell her she's prettier without all the makeup?

Thanks,
Josh

Dear Josh,

I hate to point out the obvious, but how about saying something like, "You know, you look just as beautiful without makeup?" Most women wear makeup because the media tells us we have to in order to be attractive. If I had a partner telling me not to wear makeup because I look fantastic without it, I would gladly take that extra fifteen minutes each morning and enjoy another cup of coffee. If you keep painting on the compliments about her skin, eyes and lips sans makeup, perhaps she'll stop painting her face.

If that doesn't work, consider buying her a day of beauty at a salon or spa. Be sure the package includes a makeup application and lesson. Also be sure to book the appointment on a weekend so you can take her out on the town afterward. Of course, you'll want to give her lots of compliments to encourage her to keep her new look.

Lipstick kisses,
MM