In recent years, there has been much debate about children, especially young girls, wearing makeup. While some see it as inappropriate or sending the wrong message, many child development experts argue that makeup can be a healthy form of self-expression and creativity for children. Below we will explore the potential benefits and risks of allowing children to experiment with cosmetics, providing guidance for parents and carers on supervising makeup play.
When Makeup Play Can Be Positive
For many children, especially as they approach the preteen years, playing with makeup is a way to explore their growing interest in personal style. Just like clothing and accessories, cosmetics allow children to try on different “looks” as they develop their own tastes and identity. When you become a foster parent to a new child, it is important to recognise makeup as one potential avenue for self-discovery.
Within reason, parents can allow and encourage makeup play as a creative outlet. Putting on lip gloss or eyeshadow allows children to engage in roleplay and fantasy—for example, acting out what they imagine a pop star or movie character might look like. If done at home under adult supervision, this type of pretend play is appropriate and gives children a safe space to figure out how they want to present themselves to the world.
Setting Clear Guidelines and Limitations
While makeup play can be positive, it is something that requires rules and limitations, especially for younger children. If not monitored closely, unhealthy messages and habits around cosmetics could develop.
- First, minimal and age-appropriate products are a must. Bold lip colours or dark eye makeup should be avoided for young girls—subtler lip glosses and light sparkly eyeshadows are better options. Face makeup like foundation or contour powder is not necessary.
- Second, designate specific times and places where makeup play is allowed, such as during dress-up time in her bedroom. Prevent messiness and damage to furniture or carpeting.
- Third, reinforce that while makeup can be fun, natural beauty shines through individuality and being oneself. Make sure children know their worth is never dependent on makeup.
- Finally, explain that wearing a full face of makeup to school or in public is not allowed until they are teenagers. Set limitations to prevent premature emphasis on appearance.
Encouraging Healthy Attitudes
Whether you’re a biological parent or a foster carer, your role is not to ban makeup entirely but to build healthy attitudes around it. Be actively involved—ask your child why they want to try a certain lipstick and what looks they are going for. Talk about how media and peers may influence their view of beauty. Teach them makeup skills yourself so they don’t feel the need to sneak or misuse products.
Most importantly, boost their confidence in their natural self. Compliment them on their talents, personalities and other qualities not related to appearance. With your guidance, makeup can be an outlet for creativity and self-expression, not pressure to meet unrealistic beauty standards.
Used responsibly, makeup can allow children to safely explore their identity and interests. However, active parental supervision is required to set age-appropriate guidelines and nurture positive behaviours. With an open but bounded approach, UK parents and foster carers can make makeup a healthy part of self-discovery rather than an unhealthy focus on looks.
