Some commentators have called this swathe of stuff ‘body work’ – recognising the resources of time, effort and money encapsulated in this activity that, like housework, mainly falls to women. Undoubtedly, such work can lie heavily on women and take up too much valuable time. But it can also form an important and comforting ritual, one that affords pleasure in expertise, and opportunities for connection. Keeping the body, face and hair looking good can be a pressure, a burden – but also often a lot of fun.
