Let's Beauty Together

a poem about skincare and reality TV

LET’S BEAUTY TOGETHER

The chemical burn on my forehead
comes courtesy of the efficacious
skincare routine I began in quarantine,
hoping to look hotter than my nemesis
when we’re seated side-by-side
at the reunion show. Customer service
says to keep using Marula oil
and stop giving my Golden Retriever
red wine to distract the audience
from how often I refill my glass.
Mark thinks I’m afraid of commitment
but I always follow through
on my worst instincts. In the mirror,
I apply Glycolic acid to the only face
I’m allowed to touch. I’m exfoliating
until someone asks me
what’s really wrong.

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If you enjoyed this poem, you’ll love Self Care, my satire of the wellness industry that comes out June 30 (you can preorder a copy today and give your future self a gift in the mail).