So Your Teen Daughter Wants to Start Wearing Make-Up

So Your Teen Daughter Wants to Start Wearing Make-Up, a Mother’s Survival Guide!

We all dread this day, yet we all remember the way we felt when we noticed the girls around us were begining to wear make-up and we asked if we could too. It’s a moment most mothers dread, because unfortunately, we have to acknowledge some unpleasant truths we have little control over. First, our little baby we know is naturally gorgeous is trying to achieve a new sense of self that will seem foreign to us. Second, we know that the competition is beginning and it worries us to think of our daughter not fitting in.

Before you react, and hear yourself actually using the arcane expression “well if they told you to go jump off a bridge would you do that too?”, stop and think of what your daughter is really saying to you. It could be said that she’s showing she respects you and values your approval and input because she’s asking you directly. You might ask her, “where are your friends shopping for their make-up?” Show an interest and open mind on the one thing your daughter is an expert on, her friends.

If you are all thumbs when it comes to cosmetics, don’t panic, there’s plenty of ways to make this fun. The next time you’re at a store that sells cosmetics, take a walk with her down the aisle and see what she picks up. This way, you can get an idea of what she had in mind. If it seems reasonable, let her give it a try, but if she’s picking colours or products that seem a little too bold, suggest that you go talk to a make-up artist together and see what they recommend. Now you’re spending quality time together, she’s feeling respected and not combative, and you’re still in control of the situation.

Teens love lip gloss, so let her try a few of those. They’re easier to apply than lipstick and come in shades that aren’t too rich. Illuminators are another popular choice, and they have a girlish charm that is reminiscent of pixie dust. They gently highlight the cheekbones and brow bones with a glow that isn’t full-out glitter.

Make a day of it, and I’ll guarantee she will hug and thank you. Not to mention tell all her friends that she went make-up shopping and it was absolutely fabulous!

About the Author: Elle Gemma