Using makeup as a teen can be fun and empowering, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure it’s safe for your skin and gives you the best results. Here’s a guide on what every teen should know when starting with makeup!
1. Start with a Simple, Natural Look
- Why: Starting with a minimal look lets you experiment without overwhelming your skin or creating a look that feels too heavy.
- What to Do: Start with essentials like a tinted moisturizer, mascara, and lip balm. As you get more comfortable, add other items like eyeliner or eyeshadow.
2. Use Non-Comedogenic and Oil-Free Products
- Why: Teen skin is often more prone to acne and oiliness, so non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) products are less likely to cause breakouts.
- What to Look For: Look for makeup labeled “non-comedogenic,” “oil-free,” or “dermatologist-tested” on products like foundation and concealer.
3. Practice Good Hygiene
- Why: Bacteria can quickly build up on makeup brushes, sponges, and products, leading to breakouts or skin irritation.
- What to Do: Clean your makeup brushes and sponges weekly with a gentle brush cleanser or mild soap. Avoid sharing makeup with others and replace products every 6-12 months, especially mascara.
4. Choose a Shade That Matches Your Skin Tone
- Why: Wearing a foundation or concealer that’s too light or dark can make makeup look unnatural.
- What to Do: Test a shade on your jawline or the back of your hand, where your skin tone is most consistent. Blend a small amount to see if it matches before buying.
5. Always Remove Makeup Before Bed
- Why: Leaving makeup on overnight can clog pores and increase the chance of breakouts or dull skin.
- What to Do: Use a gentle makeup remover or micellar water followed by a cleanser to ensure every trace is gone before bed.
6. Use Sunscreen Daily, Even with Makeup On
- Why: Sun protection is key for healthy skin and prevents damage, even if your makeup contains SPF.
- What to Do: Apply a lightweight SPF 30+ sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine, before applying makeup, to ensure full coverage.
7. Keep It Light on Acne-Prone or Sensitive Areas
- Why: Heavy makeup on active breakouts or sensitive areas can cause irritation and make acne worse.
- What to Do: Use a breathable, lightweight concealer or tinted moisturizer for acne-prone areas, and avoid layering too many products on breakouts.
8. Test New Products to Avoid Allergic Reactions
- Why: Some makeup products contain ingredients that might cause irritation, especially on sensitive, younger skin.
- What to Do: When trying a new product, patch test it on your wrist or behind your ear to make sure it doesn’t irritate your skin.
9. Experiment Slowly and Find Your Style
- Why: Taking time to explore different looks lets you find your style while building makeup skills.
- What to Do: Try new things like a different lipstick shade or eye look in small steps. This approach lets you learn what you feel comfortable wearing and what works best for your features.
10. Invest in Skin Care as Much as Makeup
- Why: Healthy skin is the best canvas for makeup, so having a good skincare routine helps makeup apply more evenly and look better.
- What to Do: Cleanse, moisturize, and use sunscreen daily. Consider products that balance oil and hydrate skin to prevent makeup from looking cakey or oily.
11. Take Inspiration but Don’t Compare
- Why: Social media shows a lot of filtered and edited looks, which can create unrealistic expectations.
- What to Do: Get inspired by different makeup looks but remember everyone’s skin is unique. Focus on enhancing your own features in ways that make you feel confident.
Learning makeup can be a creative way to express yourself! Starting slow, taking care of your skin, and finding what you love will set you up for a healthy and enjoyable makeup experience.
