The Fifth Floor: Make-up and rebellion

Bella Hassan, a contributor from Somalia, and Mina Joshaghani, a contributor from Iran, explore the rebellious role of makeup in conservative societies. They discuss how makeup serves as a form of self-expression and defiance against societal norms. Bella shares how Somali women are reclaiming autonomy through beauty standards influenced by social media, while Mina highlights the pressures Iranian women face under strict grooming regulations. Together, they reflect on resilience, cultural identity, and the pursuit of empowerment amid societal expectations.