If I may,
One of the gentelmen on the first page was correct. It is our culture. I am a professional. At work I can not have dark circles, wrinkled clothing or gray hairs. While those features are acceptable for men, it is proven they are considered in promotions for women. In our culture there are many single fend for yourself women.
We shave, we pluck, we ware make up, dye our hair and we are successful. I'm not going to say its everywhere. But it is my neck of the woods. At home, I am blue jeans and sweat shirts. No makeup and good to go.
I was dating a guy that liked the idea that I took the time to shave, lotion, smell and look nice.
Be careful what you ask for.