20-year-old Melisa Raouf is the first contestant to compete without wearing any makeup in the entire pageant’s history.
Last Monday, she moved on to the semifinals where she competed barefaced. She is set to compete the coming October for the major crown.
In an interview with a UK newspaper, Raouf said, “It means a lot to me as I feel many girls of different ages wear makeup because they feel pressured to do so. If one is happy in their own skin we should not be made to cover up our face with makeup.” The beauty queen also highlighted how everyone should learn to love their flaws because it’s what makes every individual unique.
Raouf also shared that she always felt as if she didn’t meet beauty standards. Recently, she learned to love and accept herself which prompted her to compete without any makeup.
According to Miss England organizers, Raouf has decided to compete barefaced again in October.
Director of Miss England, Angie Beasley, commended Raouf’s decision. “We wish her the best of luck in Miss England, it’s a very brave thing to do when everyone else is wearing makeup but she’s sending out an important message to young women,” she said.