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Beauty Basics
Give Your Teen a Lesson in Looking Good
By Jacqueline Rupp
"Make the main priority skin health, and the rest will fall into place," says Kurland. She says that a simple cosmetics kit for teens needs to consist of only a few items: lip liner, concealer and a subtle eyeliner.
Parting Advice for Parents
Giving beauty advice can go beyond the basics of foundation and eye shadow. Here are some ways to help ease the transition. - Teach media savvy: Start discussions about what beauty really is, why certain models of beauty are shown in fashion magazines and who defines beauty for us.
- Bond over makeup: Shop together in the makeup department, take a trip to the day spa or mix up homemade facials.
- Be positive: "Remember, moms, to focus on the positives when offering suggestions; compliment the young lady's features and point out how they can be accentuated," says Kurland.
- Talk: Share your own initial makeup experiences – even if she rolls her eyes. It helps to know that you've been there, done that.
- Be prepared: Allow your daughter to make her own mistakes – if they are within range of what you feel is appropriate for her age. Wearing black eyeliner or green nail polish won't do long-term damage. Remember the makeup styles from the '80s and '90s? We've all had our share of faux pas.
- Be well-rounded: Teach your teen the other aspects of beauty. "Makeup is just one step," says Kurland. "For true beauty, you have to have the right attitude. Eye contact, posture and confidence are all essentials that makeup can't be without."
