Abstract
The purpose of this study was to clarify the present status of makeup behavior in elderly women and the influences of makeup on their self-concept, and evaluate differences between generations by their comparison with female students. A survey was performed in 173 elderly women and 192 female students, and the following results were obtained. Concerning the present status of makeup behavior, about 90% of the elderly women usually put on makeup. The makeup time was slightly shorter in the elderly women than in the female students. Both the elderly women and female students were more satisfied with their face with makeup than that without make up; this tendency was slightly more marked in the elderly women. The purpose of makeup was psychological effects in both groups. However, the elderly women appeared to put on makeup not only to obtain psychological effects but also to be careful about their appearance. After makeup, the self-concept image changed in both groups. In particular, makeup may not only give charm to external appearance but also affects self-dignity and behavior in elderly women.
