How Young is Too Young for Kids to Wear Make Up?
When it comes to kids make up, parents often have a firm opinion based upon their
experiences and beliefs. We discuss if there is a ‘right’ age, along with the reasons adults and kids
like wearing makeup.
What is your opinion on kids make up? Is there a specific age that make up is allowable? Or is there a
hard and fast rule for its use in your family? We take a look at what kids make up is and discuss the
reasons both kids and adults wear make up.
What is Kids Make Up?
Kids make up, also known as play make up and toy make up are makeup products made specifically
for children. These products therefore are non-toxic and will easily wash off skin and clothing. Often
sold in a set, they can contain items including lipstick, blusher, nail polish, eye shadow and
temporary tattoos.
At What Age Should Kids Start Wearing Make Up?
Our children are great observers, and they notice their parents, wider community and TV characters
wearing and using make up. So, it makes sense that they too are keen to try it out. There is a key
difference between the wearing of makeup as a child and as an adult and that’s the issue of sex
appeal and self-worth. Adults will generally wear makeup because they want to enhance their
appearance, look and feel attractive and/or it is expected of them. Kids on the other hand will
usually start off by wanting to wear make up because someone they are close to does and they want
to pretend they are an adult too.
When it comes to a ‘right age’ to start wearing kids make up, we don’t think there is one. Obviously
when it comes to using the products, following the manufacturers age guidelines is important. But as
to when a child begins to experiment with makeup products, that is up to their parents to decide.
Factors that they usually take into consideration when making this decision can include:
Child’s age
Parents experiences and beliefs growing up and as a parent
Cultural background, as wearing makeup can be a tradition for some
Allergies and other skin related issues, as a child needs to be able to care for their skin
Whatever decisions you make regarding your children are yours to make alone, no one else’s.
Parenting isn’t simple, but it is well worth it. Good luck!