Hi there,
It can be really hard feeling under pressure to do what others are doing, when you dont really want to. But remember, you dont have to wear make up if you dont want to.
Sometimes people may try to force you into something, and other times you might feel you have to do something to fit in. Whatever the situation, your body is your own. So if wearing make-up isnt something you want to do then you shouldnt feel you have to.
Some people wear make up because they like it and enjoy it. Others wear it because they want to fit in. And some people wear it because they dont feel happy about the way they look. It might feel as though putting on make up is like putting on a mask to hide or change how you look, but you dont need to feel that way. Building confidence in the way you look is the first step towards feeling good about yourself - whether youre wearing make up or not.
Its important to think about what feels right for you. If you try to change to please other people, it can be hard to be happy about yourself. Friends should like you for who you are and respect your decisions.
Sometimes it can be hard to tell people how you feel, so it can help to practise what you might like to say. ChildLine Counsellors can always be there for you to talk it through with on 0800 1111 or by using 1-2-1 chat.
Take care,
Sam
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
You can ask me about anything you want, there's nothing too big or small. I read every single letter but I can only answer a few each week. My replies are published here on my page.
