If you’re having a hard time smiling because you feel overwhelmed or stressed, try to find an activity that helps you relax—like playing a sport, hanging out with friends, or taking a long bath. If those things don’t help, try talking about your feelings to your parents or another adult you trust.
Use concealer to cover acne spots, or dark spots under your eyes. [2] X Research source Opt for tinted moisturizer or BB cream if you need to even out your skin tone. Try a cream or powder blush to add a little color to the roundest part of your cheeks. Use an eyelash curler to make your lashes stand out. Finish your look with clear or tinted lip gloss or balm—save lipstick for special occasions.
If your hair is shorter, try using a little mousse to keep it in place throughout the day. You could also use barrettes or headbands for a more feminine look. Try to embrace your hair’s texture—if it’s curly or thick, for instance, look for styles that look best with a lot of volume, like an updo or puffs.
Keeping your hair clean will also help keep your skin clear. If your hair is dirty, oils can get onto your skin, which can lead to acne on your hairline, forehead, and cheeks.
Feel free to play with different looks—if you feel like wearing a T-shirt and jeans one day and a dress the next, that’s totally fine. It’s all part of figuring out who you are![6] X Expert Source Sarah McDonaldCertified Stylist & Image Consultant Expert Interview. 26 August 2021. Don’t give in to the pressure to dress provocatively. It might get you a lot of attention in the short term, but it’s better to be well-known for being awesome at math, incredible at kickball, or someone your friends can always count on. [7] X Trustworthy Source Child Mind Institute Nonprofit organization providing evidence-based care for children with mental health and learning disorders and their families Go to source Wear supportive, comfortable undergarments that don’t show under your clothes. If your chest starts developing, you may prefer the support that comes from wearing a bra.
For a more classic look, go with timeless jewelry like a nice watch, a simple pendant necklace, or stud earrings. If you like a funkier style, look for chunky cuff bracelets, unique hats, and cool rings. Don’t forget the shoes—save up your extra money or ask your parents to buy you a couple of pairs that you think are really cool. Just make sure they’re comfortable!
If you wear anything on your face—like glasses or a face mask—make sure to clean them regularly so they don’t spread dirt and bacteria.
Regular soap can dry out your face, so use a gentle, unscented face wash instead. As you’re washing, work your fingers in small circles to really help clean out your pores. [12] X Research source Stash some face wipes in your bag to keep your face clean after gym class or soccer practice
It can be tempting to skip the moisturizer if your skin gets oily, but don’t! When your skin is dry, it can actually overproduce oil—so a lightweight moisturizer will help keep your skin balanced and clear. Face masks—like sheet masks or a homemade avocado mask—can be a great way to add extra moisture to your skin. [14] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Use body lotion to keep your skin soft and smooth.
For occasional breakouts, use an over-the-counter acne product made with benzoyl peroxide. [17] X Research source For really stubborn acne, see a dermatologist—they may prescribe you a stronger product, like topical retinol.
Just wearing deodorant won’t prevent odors from building up on other parts of your body, so be sure to shower or bathe every single day, too! Wear clean clothes every day, since sweat and oils can build up and make them smell funky. If you want, you can add a light spritz of body spray or perfume, but don’t go overboard—strong fragrances can be really overwhelming to the people around you.
If you feel insecure about having an uneven bite, ask your parents to talk to your dentist or orthodontist about options for straightening your teeth.
If you only want to remove a few hairs, like around your upper lip or your eyebrows, try plucking them with a tweezer.
Exercise doesn’t have to be boring, though—jumping on a trampoline and playing ball with your friends are great ways to get your body moving! Be sure to drink plenty of water, too. Your skin will look its best when you’re well hydrated. If you eat well overall and stay pretty active, it won’t hurt you to have a cupcake or some french fries once in a while, so don’t worry about depriving yourself. Just try not to make them part of every meal.
To make it easier to fall asleep, do your best to go to bed at the same time every night, and wake up at the same time each morning—even on weekends.
