I want to wear makeup but I'm scared about what my parents would say. I always see other girls in school wearing mascara and eyeliner. I’m in 8th grade and I just want to wear mascara because I have short eyelashes. How should I bring it up?

Wearing makeup can be a fun part of growing up, but it can also make mom and dad feel like they’re losing their baby girl. Proving that you can handle it by following these steps will erase their hesitation and show how mature you’ve become.

The last thing you want is for your parents to think you’re growing up too fast. Asking to wear make up will probably start a conversation about your maturity level, so be sure to act in a calm, sophisticated manner instead of whining and using the “everyone else is doing it!” excuse. Start the convo by telling them that you believe you’re mature enough to wear make up, and would just use it to enhance your already beautiful features. Giving full-blown examples of how you manage to walk the dog, take out the trash AND finish your math homework might be a good start.

If you get mom involved from the get-go, she’ll feel like she’s a part of the process and has some control over your make up usage. Take a mother-daughter outing to the nearest department store and have someone from the makeup counter help you find the perfect mascara. Not only will this keep your mom involved, but it will also be a great bonding experience! Ask mom what she thinks about each pick—she’ll be thrilled to think you value her opinion.

Prove to your parents that you can in fact wear make up without looking like you belong in a circus by only applying a little at a time. Be sure not to over-do the mascara and just use it at appropriate times, like a school dance. Showing your parents how you can use it in moderation will definitely impress them, so keep it to a minimum and don’t make them regret their decision!

Good luck, girlie!