How to Convince Your Parents to Let You Wear Makeup ...

1 Go Shopping with Them & Let Them Choose for You

Your parents may be reluctant to let you wear makeup because they're worried that you'll overdo it and end up plastering lots of makeup on. Ask if they'd let you wear some if they could choose what you buy. If they can pick out some makeup for you, they may feel happier that you're wearing makeup they approve of.

2 Start with Simple, Age Appropriate Makeup

When you're young, you don't need tons of makeup. Your youthful skin only needs minimal enhancement. Start with a simple makeup bag, with products like tinted moisturiser (which will also have some SPF protection), clear mascara, and lip gloss. This will just add a little polish to your face, rather than hiding it and making you look older.

3 Don't Beg & Throw a Tantrum

If your parents have already said no, don't throw a tantrum or beg them to change their mind. Leave it a while, and try again, giving a reasonable argument for letting your wear makeup. Whining 'but everyone else wears it!' is guaranteed to get a flat refusal; parents never, ever respond to the claim that you'll be the odd one out if you don't get to do what your friends are doing.

4 Explain Why You Want to Wear Makeup

When you're trying to persuade your parents to let you start wearing makeup, give them a sensible reason for wanting to use cosmetics. For example, it's fun to play with your appearance, and you just want to enhance your natural looks. Most parents are ok with light makeup; they just don't want to see you covered in it or trying to look older.

5 Negotiate when You Can Wear It

Negotiate with your parents about when you're allowed to wear makeup; for example, it wouldn't be appropriate at church or school, but could be ok at weekends or if you all go out for dinner. And if they agree to let you wear it at certain times, stick to the rule; doing so shows that you're mature enough to be allowed more freedom.

6 Ask Your Mom to Show You How to Apply It

Your parents may be worried that you'll put on far too much makeup and look like a clown or someone's who's much older. Try asking your mom to show you how to apply it; this may reassure her that you'll apply appropriate makeup for your age, and also make her feel part of your life (parents usually hate the thought of their children growing up!).

7 Offer to Buy It Yourself

You could also try offering to buy the makeup yourself, rather than asking your parents to buy it for you. Save up your pocket money or offer to do some extra chores in return. They may be reluctant to spend money on things you don't actually need; if you budget for some makeup, you're showing that you really want some, and that you're sensible enough to save for it.

If all your arguments fail and your parents say no, you can try again later. But always be mature and respectful, rather than getting upset. It's not the end of the world if they say no (for now!).