Updated: April 28, 2020
“Is that the L’Oreal P78?”
I look at the lady confused.
“I’m sorry. What?”
After blank stares from both of us, the woman responds saying, “That is your natural hair color? Oh gosh! You’re so lucky.”
I didn’t always feel lucky. Like most redhead children, the bullying was endless and relentless. I use to wonder why I didn’t have long, blonde locks like my best friend. It always felt like all the boys loved the blondes and brunettes, and there I was, the only ‘carrot top’.
I had spent most of my teenage years and 20’s trying to cover up my freckles. I wanted a porcelain complexion that was flawless. There were endless experiments with foundations and cover-up makeup, only to result in a caked-up look. And the freckles persevered. No matter how hard I tried, I was never completely able to hide them. It took me a while to realize I was unique and should embrace my freckled skin.
I would like to tell any young woman going through a self-conscious stage: Flaunt your natural beauty!
READ: REDHEAD CONFIDENCE: SELF-ESTEEM IS NOT THE ANSWER
Here are six ways I learned to embrace my fair skin, red hair and some redhead makeup tips to make you feel even more beautiful:
1. Don’t cover up your freckles
There is a tendency to use more foundation in order to cover up freckles, leaving a thick, dried up look. Just. Don’t. Do. It. No matter how hard you try to cover up those gorgeous spots, they will never completely be invisible. They are having too much fun and want to shine.
2. Never forget sunscreen
And always remember to moisturize1
3. Use a sheer loose powder or bronzer for a bit of a pick-me-up
This is completely optional but I always find a little bronzer gives me a boost of confidence. One of my favorite splurge bronzers is Les Beiges de Chanel and for save, I love Physicians Formula Bronze Booster Glow-Boosting BB Bronzer. I use a really big brush so the application is not concentrated too much in one spot.
4. Be proud of your looks
There is NOTHING more attractive than being a unique, confident person.
5. Accept who you are
Love what makes you stand out. Look closely in the mirror at your freckles. I once discovered a freckle on the edge of my lip. I am still in love with it! It is my very own beauty mark.
6. Other areas of your life will become radiant too
Once you accept who you are, you will notice a switch in your life from negative to positive.
READ: FOUR TIPS FOR BUILDING YOUR CONFIDENCE
As part of the rare traits we possess, it is important to seek unconventional ways to enhance your natural beauty. I am constantly searching for ways to show off my hair and fair complexion. In my opinion, beauty magazines are great, but no one knows us better than ourselves. No one knows better what works for us. We are blessed, redheads!
A rare species. A mystery. One of a kind.
Rock it like a Redhead!
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