Think about what you consider to be pretty. Everyone has their own ideas of what is pretty and what isn't -- and these ideas even change amongst different countries.[1] X Research source When reading this article, you should consider what you think is pretty. If you think that wild, curly hair is pretty, then go for it. Don't be afraid to be yourself and set your own standards. Remember that true beauty comes from the inside and uniqueness is also beautiful. If you've only believed that beauty was physical before, redefine this idea and contemplate the possibilities. At the same time, try to set realistic expectations. For example, instead of drastically trying to change your figure, skin color, or hair, try to accept the way you look first. Take good care of your hair and skin and focus on the parts you do like about yourself (such as your eyes or your curly hair). Believe in your own beauty. Sometimes, people can be their own worst critics. Take a moment and treat yourself like a friend -- would you be as harsh on yourself? What are your best qualities (both inside and out)? Maybe you value certain features about yourself because they are inherited from a loved one. Accept

yourself as you are, and recognize that you are not perfect -- but no one is, it's human. Appreciate your uniqueness, develop the qualities you want that you have control over (such as your personality, intelligence, and health), and trust that your beauty will grow day by day. Know that beauty also comes from the inside. Even the prettiest girl can lose friends if she is mean, manipulative, or uncaring. At the same time, the plainest girl can find many friends if she is kind, fair, and thoughtful. This section will give you a few tips on how to let your inner beauty shine through. Smile often. A scowl or frown can make anyone look unpleasant and intimidating. A friendly smile, however, can make any face look brighter and approachable. Be polite. Make sure to say "please," when asking for something, and "thank you," when you get it. Also, if you need to get past someone, say "excuse me." Show that you care for others. If you notice your friend or classmate looking sad, ask them what's wrong or if they'd like to talk about it. If they do start to talk, listen to them attentively. Even if their problems are not ones you may be able to connect with, they will recognize that you care.

They will see this as a beautiful quality about you. You can also show that you care by volunteering at homes for the elderly, soup kitchens, or animal shelters. Try to be more positive and supportive. The more positive and supportive you are, the better you will feel about yourself. You may even stop focusing on your flaws (such as that annoying pimple that keeps popping up) and start seeing the good things about yourself. Here are some ways you can be more positive: If something doesn't turn out the way you liked, try to find something good about the situation. You can also consider what you can do to improve the situation next time. Oftentimes, the lesson you take away will be more valuable than a favorable outcome. By focusing on the benefits, you can strengthen your perspective. In unforeseeable circumstances, see if you can adapt to the situation and make the most out of it. For instance, if it rains on the day of the picnic you spent all week planning, see if you can bring it inside. You could even set up a movie or bring out a few board games to play with your friends. If your friend is really excited about something, try to share their excitement. You can also ask them

questions about it to show that you are interested. If your friend is really good at something, try to encourage her/him. For example, if your friend is good at drawing, tell her/him that their drawing is really good and that you really like their style. Don't be a bully and don't encourage bullying. Putting someone down will never make you feel better about yourself or accomplish anything worthwhile. In reality, the more you make fun of others, the worse you will feel about yourself. Sometimes, the bullying might even come back to you. You could really hurt someone, and make them feel really bad about themselves. Instead, ask yourself what it is that would make you consider bullying or participating in it -- are there internal issues you may need to work through? Are you trying to feel accepted by the bully? Is the person being bullied or their actions symbolic of something or someone that you dislike? Perhaps they reflect a quality about yourself that you neglect or wish could be better. Work and study hard. Even if you don't get good grades or score the most goals on your team, people will notice if you try hard. They will appreciate your efforts and look up to you. Developing

your intelligence will also open many doors (such as opportunities) for you. Try to do well in school. Find a subject that you really like or are passionate about, and try to do the best you can in it. You might even get people asking you for help in that subject. Even if there is a subject that is not your strength, give it attention. You may be noticed for your diligence and/or find people that want to help you or work together. Don't forget about your hobbies and talents. If you like to draw, then consider taking some art classes. If you like to sing and dance, consider trying out for the school play. Building an arsenal of skills will help you cultivate who you are as a person. Learn about the world around you. Look around the familiar and see if you notice anything new or different today - was there something you weren't aware of before? Try to explore different places, cultures, topics, and look for similarities and differences. Being curious and building your knowledge is not only a fun thing to do, but you will find a treasure trove of intrigue that will connect you with others in ways you would never imagine possible. Read more. Read the news (both domestic and worldwide)

and see what you can learn. Read literature, poetry, or non-fiction, and take a dive into someone else's life or ideas. Listen to what other people have to say. Listen to the radio, podcasts, and listen more closely to the people around you. Every person has knowledge that they can offer that can help you grow. Ask questions. "Why" is one of the best questions and can often help you find the heart of the issue in many cases. Don't be afraid to ask questions, because questions (when asked correctly) can also make another person feel important. Furthermore, it will make you look and feel confident, but also help you gain knowledge. Try to be confident but don't be arrogant. Don't brag about the things you are good at, but don't try to hide your talents either. When you walk, try to keep your chin up, your back straight, and your shoulders tilted back. This will help you look and feel more confident. Many people find confidence attractive, but moreover, confidence will encourage you to nurture your personal growth into becoming the person you want to be. Maintain good hygiene. Staying clean will not only help you look your best, but it will also help you feel better too. Here are some

things to keep in mind: Brush your teeth twice a day. If you wear braces, you might want to brush your teeth after you eat something. Consider bringing a toothbrush and toothpaste with you to school. Also, take care of your teeth by flossing. Take a bath or shower once a day. Try not to do this more than once a day, because it will dry out your skin. This will help you stay healthy; it will also help you feel fresh. Wear deodorant to keep body odor down. This may also help increase your self-confidence. You don't have to smell like a rose to feel good about yourself. A fresh, natural scent is okay too. Consider using perfume. Use on wrists, elbows, neck, and upper body. Try to use only one spritz because otherwise, you will smell too strong! Natural fragrances are good, and refreshing or sweet are too. Just use whatever is right for you! Get enough sleep. Plan on sleeping eight to nine hours a night. Your body will be healthier, and your skin and hair will look better too. You may also find your mood to be lighter, and that you are feeling less stressed.[2] X Research source Consider eating healthy food and skip on the junk food. Things like pizza, french fries, candy, chips, and

hot dogs aren't great for your health. They can cause weight gain, wreck havoc on your skin, and influence your mood. They also lack the nutrients your body needs. Foods like fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and lean meats, however, are packed with nutrients and vitamins. They are not only good for your body, but for your skin and hair as well. Try to include more of these in your diet and see how it affects you on a long-term basis. You could also try doing exercises to become more toned, especially abdominal-benefiting ones! This will not only make you feel the sports-happy-rush, but you will start to feel generally better with yourself. It is perfectly fine to treat yourself to something sweet, such as a chocolate or cookie, every once in a while. Oftentimes, this lifestyle change can be difficult if you are accustomed to a certain diet. Junk food can be addictive and even inhibit the desire to change what you eat.[3] X Research source Adjust slowly starting with things you can tolerate, or find creative ways to incorporate the foods that are difficult for you. For instance, you can often throw various greens into a smoothie and completely mask the taste with complimentary

fruits. If you are determined, consider setting small goals to start. For example, you can make it a goal to experiment with a new vegetable, nut, or fruit each week to figure out what it is you like or different things you can do with it. Another idea is trying to substitute a healthy snack for an unhealthy snack for 5 days a week within a month. Drink more water. Most popular sodas have a lot of sugar, and even most juices have substantial sugar.[4] X Research source Coffee is actually dehydrating and can significantly affect your skin, so much so that estheticians have suggested drinking two cups of water for every 1 cup of coffee on top of your daily 8. Even tea can be dehydrating, though not as much as coffee. Aside from minimizing calories, drinking more water produces numerous other benefits, including (but not limited to): better skin (flushing out toxins and helping blood flow), lowering stress (which can be caused by dehydration), and giving you more energy (also a side-effect of dehydration).[5] X Research source Drinking less soda and coffee may require time, as the two can be habit-forming. Start off with a few cups of water a day, and increase over time. Consider

adding ice and/or fresh lemon to make it taste more refreshing. You can also infuse water with fruits or cucumber to get that extra taste you are looking for. If you prefer carbonation, you can consider sparkling water without additives. While it is a mild acid (like juice) and can erode the teeth over time, there is no evidence at this time that it can be harmful otherwise.[6] X Research source Exercise to stay healthy. Exercise is not just for those who want to lose weight; it also helps reduce stress and increase the hormones responsible for causing happiness. Even if you have a small frame, taking a long walk every once in a while will help keep you in shape. This may require a lifestyle change, which always takes time to adjust. Feel free to go at your own pace, and start by thinking about what you enjoy. If you've always wanted to try a yoga class, check your local listings to see if any of them offer a free trial or discounted trial period. Simply dance around to your favorite song at home, because why not? Involving a friend is often helpful. For instance, you can substitute your weekly coffee catch-up sessions with a leisurely stroll around a local track. Check deal

listings and find one or two new activities to explore with a friend or two periodically, or until you find something that you like. Setting weekly goals or having a set day and time per week can really help your efforts. Consider adding and marking it off a calendar, since this will give you a sense of accomplishment. Know what you can do to lose weight if you are self-conscious about your body. Everybody shape is beautiful, but if your figure really bothers you and makes you unhappy, there are a few things you can try to lose some weight. Keep in mind, however, that losing weight will take some time. Don't overwork yourself just to lose your weight faster. You will get very sick instead. Eat well, but eat healthy. Do not starve yourself or skip meals. Instead, try to eat normal-sized, healthy meals. These will include things such as fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and lean meats. Try to avoid eating unhealthy foods, such as sweets and fast food. Skip on the sugary drinks, and drink more water. These are easy calories to lose as you get used to it over time. Also avoid drinks that may be dehydrating, such as coffee. Exercise a few times a week. Try swimming, jogging, or doing some

sit-ups. If you haven't exercised before, or have not done it in a while, start with small, easy sessions first. Get enough sleep. Try to get to bed early, and get around eight or nine hours. Studies have shown that going to bed late and not sleeping enough is tied to weight gain (and stress). Consider enrolling in a weight-loss program or boot camp. It might be more fun and motivating to do it with other people. Take care of your face by washing it twice a day. Try not to use body wash or hand soap; they are too harsh and will dry your skin out. You also don't want to wash your face too often, even if it is very oily. This will also cause your skin to dry out. When your skin becomes too dry, it will start producing extra oils to make up for it. Use toner and moisturizer after washing your face. Soak a cotton ball with some toner, and sweep it across your face, focusing on the nose, forehead, chin, and cheeks. Avoid the sensitive area around your eyes. Follow up with some moisturizer. If you have oily skin, try to find a light-weight or gel-based moisturizer. The toner will help restore your skin's natural pH. It will also help tighten your pores. Moisturizer will hydrate your

skin. It will make it appear smoother and less flaky. Protect your skin from the sun. This doesn't mean that you have to avoid the sun. Instead, try wearing sunscreen each time you go out. If you don't like wearing sunscreen on your face, try using some foundation or moisturizer that has SPF 15. Know that acne, pimples, and blackheads are normal. Everyone gets them at some point in their lives. Some people get them sooner than others. If you find yourself burdened with acne, there are a few things you can do to make it less severe: Try not to pick or pop your pimples. This will cause them to bleed, and you may get scars. Wash your face twice a day. This will help get rid of acne-causing bacteria. If you wear makeup, be sure to wash it off before you go to bed. Buy some pimple cream from the drug store. Keep in mind that these creams may take some time to work. Don't use more than directed; this won't make the pimples disappear faster. Ask your parents if you can see a dermatologist if you have severe acne. Most pimple creams will do the job, but some people might need something stronger. A dermatologist may help you find the right product, or give you a prescription. Consider

covering some pimples up with concealer. Everyone gets pimples, but if they really lower your confidence, you can dab on a little concealer over them to make them less noticeable. Buy the right products for your hair type. There are many types of hair, and therefore, there are various solutions for various hair types. If your hair looks frizzy, matte, or just not that great, take a look at your shampoo and conditioner bottles. Are you using a shampoo that matches your hair type? If not, try to get a shampoo that says it's for your hair type (such as curly, dry, colored, and so forth), and see if that helps. If you have dry hair, look for products that say "hydrating" or "moisturizing." Try not to wash your hair every day. Instead, wash it every two to three days.[7] X Research source If you have oily hair, look for a clarifying shampoo, or something that says its meant for oily hair. Try leaving the shampoo on your scalp for up to five minutes. When it comes to conditioner, only use it on the ends of your hair.[8] X Research source If you have thin, limp hair, look for a volumizing shampoo. It will make your hair appear thicker and give it extra body. If you dye your hair, get a

shampoo that says it's for "colored hair." It will help your dye job last longer. It will also take care of your hair and help keep it soft; most hair dyes are very harsh and drying on hair. Make sure that you are washing and brushing your hair properly. How you wash and brush your hair will affect how it looks in the end. Here are some tips on how to get your hair to look its best:[9] X Research source Wash your hair no more than three times a week. The more often you wash it, the more oil it will produce. Use warm or lukewarm water instead of hot water. Hot water will cause your hair to lose moisture and frizz. Consider rinsing your hair with cool water; this will seal the hair cuticle, reduce frizz, and make it shiny.[10] X Research source Make sure you are leaving the conditioner in your hair long enough. Most brands needs to be left for three to five minutes, but you might want to check the label on the back of the bottle. Brush or comb your hair when it is almost dry. Start from the ends first, and work your way up towards the roots. Wet hair is very stretchy, and snaps easily.[11] X Research source Know how to tame annoying frizz. Curly hair can be beautiful, but it can also

get frizzy and unruly. It tangles easily and gets in your face when you are trying to work. Here are some things you can try to bring out the natural beauty of your curls: Don't use a hairbrush. This usually is what causes frizz. Instead, use a wide-toothed comb when your hair is dry. If you must brush your hair, do it only when it's wet. Try adding in a little bit of Argan oil or coconut oil to your hair. Know how to take care of split ends. There is no way to permanently seal the split ends together; however, you can temporarily seal them with a split end mending cream. Simply apply some of the cream to your split ends. The only way to get rid of split ends, however, is to trim your hair. If you don't do this, the damage will continue to creep up the hair shaft.[12] X Research source Try not to over-brush your hair. Also, try to use less heat-styling (such as straightening or curling). If you must straighten or curl your hair, be sure to use a heat protecting spray. Use curling irons, flat irons, and hairdryers with care. When you are using a hairdryer, use a medium-heat setting instead of a high one. Hold the nozzle 6 to 8 inches (15.2 to 20.3 cm) (15.24 to 20.32 inches) away

from your head.[13] X Research source Also, be sure to use a heat protecting sprays if you are going to straighten or curl your hair. There is nothing wrong with straightening or curling your hair, but it is very important to use a heat protecting spray on your hair before doing so. If you don't, you will fry your hair, and make it brittle and dry. Know what to do on bad hair days. Everyone gets one at some point or another, and they can be pretty embarrassing. If your hair just doesn't want to behave, no matter what you do, try putting it in a braid or wearing a hat over it. It will look chic and cute, and keep you from feeling too embarrassed or self-conscious.[14] X Research source Use the right styling products to get the right look. There are a few things you can add to your hair to make it look glossy and shiny. Here are some ideas: Use a smoothing cream or oil if your have frizz. This will tame your hair, and let your natural curls or waves show through. Use a small amount of hair oil, such as Argan oil or coconut oil, if you have dull hair and want to add some shine back to it. Use some gel or mousse to bring if you have curly hair, and want to bring out your spirals and

ringlets. The gel or mousse will help your curls keep their shape and texture.[15] X Research source If you have straight hair or want to blow dry your hair straight, spray your hair down with a heat protecting spray. Use a nozzle attachment on your hairdryer, and aim the nozzle downwards when drying.[16] X Research source Experiment with different hairstyles. Your hair frames your face, and can also highlight certain features. Play around with various methods of styling to see what you like. There are at least 15 Ways to Have a Simple Hairstyle for School. Find out what type of face shape you have. This can help you determine what sort of haircut might look best on you. Understand that style is a fluid concept. Steve Urkel,[17] X Research source a fictional U.S. television character in the 90s, was famously dressed in unpopular fashion at the time. However, in 2011, his style would have been considered the epitome of cool. Similarly, following the history of a single style alone can be very telling. Bell bottoms were initially from the 1800s, re-introduced as high fashion in Europe the mid-60s, and went mainstream in the US and Europe in the 70s. There was a revival in a varied

form in the 90s, which is now known as "boot-cut",[18] X Research source though styles similar to the 70s have been seen in recent years. Furthermore, boho-chic (bohemian) styles popular in the 60s-70s have also come into popularity again in recent years. Style can also be seasonal -- with lighter and brighter colors trending in the Spring-Summer, and medium to darker hues in the Fall-Winter (this is applicable across clothes, hair, and makeup). Ultimately, trends recycle, reuse, and rotate. What's popular now, may not be tomorrow, and vice versa -- but at the same time, style can live on eternally in the world of high fashion and couture. For example, Alexander McQueen is worshipped in the fashion realm but considered gothic. Even if a style is not recognized where you live, it may be celebrated across the globe. Such as steampunk, which has been gaining momentum within Japanese subcultures in recent years.[19] X Research source At the end of the day, clothes are also a practical means to an end. This is something visionaries such as Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg have accepted in an effort to be more efficient -- they wore/wear the same thing every day.[20] X Research source Some

people do unfortunately tend to use looks as a way to gauge a person. Forgive those people since they may not know any better, whether they were raised that way or influenced by societal cues, but also notice if you have these thoughts and feelings. Focus on yourself and what you like. Even if it is not preferable to others, it is always respectable. More importantly, it will allow you to learn more about yourself. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles. You can still dress goth, skater, scene, or emo and still look pretty. You can even try on some vintage dresses for a chic, feminine look. If you are adopting a new style that may not be widely accepted it may take time for you to feel comfortable and confident. Consider talking to your guardian(s) and friends about your interests first. If they do not support you, know that there are people that would (there are many examples of dads supporting their son's choices[21] X Research source for instance). If you are not ready yet and you want to put it off until a later time, that's OK too -- it's never too early or too late (consider Baddiewinkle[22] X Research source ) to express yourself through your personal style.

Know that there are always other people that share the same interests as you, they just may not be accessible to you yet. Embracing what you like may take bravery, but you are not alone in your exploration. For instance, as a high-schooler, Kyemah McEntyre became an internet sensation by going forth and creating her phenomenal vision of an African-inspired prom dress despite being bullied.[23] X Research source Style can be a means to change perception and/or perspective, and not everyone is receptive to change or something different in any situation (including those closest to you). Accept that there will be challenges along the way, and try to find people, or a community of like-minded people, that will support you. Recognize that your personal style is your own. Even not caring is a style (the Parisians, for instance, are famously known for their love of effortless-chic). Choose a style that you feel comfortable in. If you don't feel comfortable in your outfit, don't wear it. Part of looking pretty is feeling comfortable and