Should Christian women use makeup? What about jewelry?

Quick answer

Makeup and jewelry can be used modestly and appropriately to reflect dignity and respect, but true worth comes from faith in Christ. Christian women are encouraged to focus on their inner beauty—character and godliness—over outward adornments like makeup and jewelry.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Christian women are encouraged to focus on inner beauty—character, humility, and godliness—rather than external adornments like makeup and jewelry (1 Peter 3:3–5; 1 Timothy 2:9–10). At the same time, there is nothing inherently sinful about using makeup or jewelry, if seen and used appropriately. While God sees and values the condition of a person’s heart over outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7b), our outward appearances still matter. Modesty and dressing according to the situations in which you find yourself still apply. Makeup and jewelry can be used to enhance dignity and show respect in appropriate settings, but they should not be the focus. A woman’s true worth is found in her faith and relationship with Christ. In every situation, a Christian woman should present herself in a way that reflects her identity as a child of God.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

God’s perspective is different from the world’s; He values the condition of a person’s heart over outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7b). While humans may judge based on what they see, God is concerned with inner motives, character, and spiritual integrity.

Proverbs 31 presents the virtuous woman. Verses 21–22 and 25a read: “She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet. She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple… Strength and dignity are her clothing.” These verses say that a woman who is respected in her community, and whose husband is respected as well, will dress appropriately to her position.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

First Timothy 2:9–10 highlights that a woman’s true beauty lies not in outward adornment but in modesty, self-control, and good works, which reflect a heart devoted to godliness. The focus is on character and actions, rather than external appearances. Instead of focusing on looks, Christian women are to nurture their relationship with Christ. As a Christ-follower, a woman's worth does not come from beauty or wealth but from her faith.

Peter also emphasizes that true, lasting beauty is internal, coming from a gentle and quiet spirit (1 Peter 3:3–5). This inner beauty, rooted in humility and trust in God, is far more precious to Him than external adornments like jewelry or elaborate clothing.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Beauty is fleeting (Proverbs 31:30), and God looks at the heart, but when interacting with the outside world, a God-following woman should dress for the situation. If it is a formal event, she may wear makeup and jewelry as a sign of respect for herself and recognition of her own dignity. If it is a more casual situation, the makeup and jewelry will probably be less ostentatious, so she won't draw attention to herself for the wrong reasons. Even if the woman can't afford nice jewelry or is allergic to makeup, she can show dignity in other ways like being clean, having a flattering hair style, or having an open, friendly demeanor.

We are children of the King. We are ambassadors for Christ. As such, we should always be dressed with the dignity and poise that the occasion calls for. Sometimes that may mean wearing makeup and jewelry, sometimes not. In every situation, however, we should present ourselves appropriately.

UNDERSTAND

Christian women are encouraged to prioritize inner beauty over outward adornments like makeup and jewelry.

Makeup and jewelry are not inherently sinful.

Christian women should consider the situation when choosing to wear makeup and jewelry.

REFLECT

How does your understanding of inner beauty influence the way you choose to wear makeup and jewelry?

How can you demonstrate dignity and respect without relying on outward adornments and appearances?

How do you balance cultural expectations with biblical principles when deciding on your appearance?

ENGAGE

How can we encourage Christian women to embrace their true worth, as defined by their faith in Christ, rather than societal standards of beauty?

Where can makeup and jewelry be a positive reflection of a woman’s dignity and respect for herself and others?

How do you navigate the cultural pressures around beauty and adornment while maintaining a focus on spiritual integrity?