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A recent survey by consumer analysts Mintel found that more than 60 per cent of primary school girls regularly wear make-up, and this went up to 90 per cent among 14-year-old girls. Some parents see it as harmless fun, while others worry about the pressure on young children to look grown up. Here are a few tips to help you and your child come to some kind of compromise:

Check school policy. Most schools have a clear, sensible policy on make-up, so ensure your child follows their guidelines.

Encourage good skin care. Children often start to wear make-up during puberty, when hormones begin to wreak havoc on their skin and self-esteem. Encourage your child to practice a good skincare routine to improve her confidence.

Understand media images. Teenagers are susceptible to feelings of low because they cannot measure up to the airbrushed perfection they see in magazines and on TV. Make sure they know the difference.

Set an example. It's difficult to say 'No' to your teen if you are wearing lots of make-up yourself.

Suggest natural cosmetics. Most cosmetics contain a large amount of synthetic substances, many of which are potentially irritating to young skin. Stick to chemical-free, natural brands.

Don't make fun. However ridiculous your child looks while experimenting with make-up, be careful not to make hurtful comments. Most teens don't feel happy with how they look, so it's important not to make things worse.
Sally Coulthard, working mum and author of 'The Parents' Book Of Checklists - From Toddlers To Teenagers'

By Sally Coulthard, author

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