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Yes, it could—so finds a recent study lead by author and assistant clinical professor of psychology at Harvard University, Nancy Etcoff. In addition, how you apply cosmetics (or if you wear them at all) could affect others perceptions of your level of likability, competence and, as you may have guessed, attractiveness.

The female subjects of the study were photographed barefaced and with three different makeup looks (natural, professional, and glamorous). One test group was shown the photos for 250 milliseconds; the other was allowed to study them for an unlimited amount of time. Both groups rated the women wearing makeup higher on the competence and attractiveness scale than those without it. However, the group given more time judged the subjects wearing the heavier, glamorous looks as less trustworthy and less likable. Sarah Vickery, a scientist and another author of the study, told the New York Times that a dark, shiny lipstick makes a powerful impression, but lighter, less glossy lip colors helps others view you as a more level-headed team player.

While these findings don't exactly prove that the years it took to perfect my liquid liner technique or the fact that I tried every pink lipstick on the market until I found the right shade was time and money well spent, it is interesting to discover that spending more time in front of the mirror in the morning—but not too much time—could earn me more respect at the office and in life.