Handy Tips

The adolescent and teen years are periods of discovery. Girls and boys are finding their own sense of style and tend to try the going trends to see how well they suit.

Makeup is one of the things that is thoroughly explored at this time and teens decide if they want to wear it or not. The process of discovery can be a painful one if no guidance is given – or accepted.

Teen makeup should be minimal. So when adults say less is more, they are not trying to cramp your style, they are being kind and honest.

These days with the Alicia Keys-inspired bare face trending, it’s easy to go that route or to apply just enough so that your best features are highlighted and not hidden. Parties, particularly Christmas parties would be the time that the makeup gets tried out and used up. So here are a few tips for girls 13 to 18 years old.

* It is worth repeating that less is more and this is particularly the case if you have acne. Heavy makeup, which you think is covering it up only makes it worse. So you can skip the foundation altogether or go for a lightweight, mineral one. Otherwise pressed powder is plenty.

* Again, skip the blush and if it’s daytime, leave the eyeshadow palette closed. If it’s a nighttime occasion, gold, bronze or a bit of shimmer can highlight your look.

* Use a careful hand with the eyeliner so that it’s not too heavy. But you can go to town with the mascara, especially if it’s a volumiser.

* Lip liner works to keep your lipstick in place, but it’s too much for teens. And guess what? You don’t even need lipstick. Try a tinted lip gloss instead. Take it along with you for touchups.