Having a preteen can be hard, but it can be even harder when they tell you they want to start using makeup. You never know what to say, or how much you can allow them to use. Of course, the choice is up to your individual parenting style, but if you want to let your preteen start using makeup, there are some good tips you can follow.
Starting off slow and choosing the right products are some of the most important makeup tips for preteens, ensuring they keep their sensitive skin smooth and safe. If you want to find out more about helping your child ease into the world of makeup, here are our top pieces of advice you should follow.
Start with skincare
Before your child starts their makeup routine, they need to put a big emphasis on skincare. No matter their skin type, young skin is delicate and needs to be protected at all costs. They shouldn't use the same skincare products as you, as adult skin is a lot different and has unique needs. Instead, you should start off with a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
There are products out there that are specially formulated for preteens, so try and look for those. If not, you should find a gentle product that matches your child's skin type. For example, if they have oily skin or acne prone skin, they might require unique products to help them out.
Keep it minimal
When you're a preteen, less is more, so you want to help your child's natural beauty shine through without wearing too much makeup. When putting together a makeup routine with your kid, you should stick to just the basic beauty products. This includes things such as a tinted moisturizer, lip gloss, and lightweight mascara.
Your preteen is still a child, after all, so you don't want them to look older than their years. Make sure you know what they have in their makeup kit, and if they want to wear more makeup, you can always come to a negotiation for special occasions.
Opt for natural makeup
If you agree to let your preteen wear more than what's in their usual makeup routine, ensure that it's still all natural. For example, if they want to wear a bit of eyeshadow for something like a wedding or party, they should stick to neutral colors. This includes light browns, taupe, and beige.
Eyeshadow might not be the additional beauty product they want to use on their face. If they want to use a sheer blush or more prominent lip color, try to ensure these aren't too extreme, either. Choose a blush that matches the natural rosiness of their cheeks and a lipstick that isn't too bright to maintain the natural look.
Always use sun protection
Many adults always wish for the skin of their younger selves, so when your child is a preteen, you want to ensure it's protected. One of the biggest factors contributing to fast-aging skin, lines, and spots is the sun. That's why it's crucial to always wear sunscreen, no matter what age you are, but especially when you're younger.
Encourage your child to introduce sun protection as the last step of their daily skincare routine. Have a small travel size for them to put in their makeup bag when they're on the go as well. Even if they're not planning on going out for the day, ensure they wear sunscreen to protect them from the UV rays that penetrate windows.
Don't cover your natural skin
Many preteens want the same flawless look as the celebrities they see on social media, or the influencers they watch on TikTok. But the thing is, these people often wear layers of heavy makeup, and your child won't need this with their young skin.
Their natural skin should be embraced. However, if they are feeling self-conscious and want to cover up any spots or redness, it’s best to settle for a light concealer or spot treatment instead.
Learn about hygiene and diet
As a tween, they're most likely to continue using the same makeup brushes every day without cleaning them or sharing them with friends from school. However, when they do this, they're exposing their skin to bacteria and other forms of dirt and grime that could lead to breakouts and infections.
Before your child starts wearing makeup, it's a good idea to teach them not only about application but also about hygiene. Encourage them to clean their makeup brushes and tools on a regular basis and to avoid sharing the same products with their friends.
Similarly, not only is hygiene important to keeping a child’s skin looking fresh and young, but diet can affect it too. Learn with your child about how certain foods, such as sugar, can increase the risk of breakouts and redness.
Educate; don't just apply
We've just mentioned educating your tween about hygiene, but makeup is a lot more than that. It can be a lot of fun to apply, using new techniques and cosmetics, but that isn't what it's all about. It is advised to teach them the importance of self-confidence and inner beauty and that wearing makeup doesn't define who they are.
If they ask why you or other adults wear makeup, it's always good to tell them it's a form of self-expression and can be artistic rather than something that must be worn daily. If you want to convey this message to them, consider changing your makeup routine to set an example.
Remove makeup properly
Your preteen can't wear makeup 24/7, so there's going to be a time when they need to take it off. Instead of letting them sleep in it and come off over the days or reapplying when it fades, encourage them to use the right tools and products to remove the makeup at the end of the day.
Instead of using makeup wipes which cause waste, especially when they aren't biodegradable, encourage them to use their gentle cleanser or micellar water with a cotton pad. It will be good on their skin and they'll feel fresh at the end of the day.
Putting it all together
It can be scary to see your child grow into a preteen and want to start wearing makeup, but it doesn't have to be. When you follow these steps, they'll be able to safely use beauty products that still enhance their natural beauty, and that isn't too heavy. You can set your own boundaries, but we encourage you to use these tips as a baseline.
If you need help finding the perfect beauty products for your tween, then Popsicle Beauty Club can help you out. We have a wide range of cosmetics, tools, and skincare products that are designed specifically for children and teenagers. Browse our extensive collection today!
