Certain subjects tend to spark intense discussions online, and within the parenting sphere, makeup is undoubtedly one of them. The debates range from when it’s suitable for children to begin using makeup, which products are deemed acceptable or inappropriate, and how much makeup is considered appropriate. When Hilaria Baldwin disclosed that she allowed her 10-year-old daughter to experiment with cosmetics, the online community predictably erupted with strong reactions in the comments section of Baldwin’s Instagram post.
On a Sunday, the mother of seven posted a charming picture on Instagram featuring herself and her eldest daughter, Carmen. The two posed with gentle smiles in front of a mirror, exuding understated yet natural beauty. Hilaria sported a denim jumpsuit with subtly contoured makeup and her brown hair elegantly styled, while Carmen wore an olive jumpsuit, straight hair cascading down her back, and a similarly natural makeup look.
Hilaria initiated her caption with, “Date night with my first baby…she did both our makeup.” She continued, “How swiftly they grow up and how inspiring it is to be influenced by them. Carmen, you possess a unique soul…just like your siblings…each one exceptional and equally remarkable,” expressing her pride as a mother.
Diverse Opinions
Despite Carmen wearing a light touch of makeup for a special occasion with her mother, the internet transformed this enjoyable mother-daughter bonding experience into an opportunity to criticize Hilaria and inappropriately sexualize Carmen. Numerous individuals shared their opinions in the comments, with one individual stating, “Beautiful. But as the mother of two daughters…too young for the makeup/grown-up look.” Another user took a more direct approach, exclaiming, “She is a child. Please!”
Amidst the wave of negative messages, many stood by Hilaria’s choice to nurture Carmen’s interest in makeup. One individual responded to a critic by asking, “Do you have a daughter?” They elaborated, “If you don’t, you should understand that they start experimenting with makeup at a young age because they observe their mother… it’s not like they wear makeup to school… only on special occasions… so refrain from judgment!”
Another user echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing, “All these comments about wearing makeup. She is enjoying a fun moment with her mom, and what a wonderful way to bond.” They shared, “My daughter and I used to do each other’s makeup, and it’s a fantastic bonding experience, especially with the eldest in a large family. Let’s practice kindness.”
Addressing Misconceptions
While critics argued that cosmetics are unsuitable for children of a certain age, one of Hilaria’s supporters emphasized that fostering a child’s interest in makeup is more about artistic expression than aspiring to appear mature and alluring. “Makeup or no makeup, the reason this beautiful girl stands proudly next to her mom is because she has incredible parents who allow her to explore and be herself,” the supporter articulated. They urged, “Cease the discriminatory remarks and preconceived notions!”
The Root of the Issue
The backlash stems from a desire to safeguard children’s innocence, yet the immediate leap to sexualize Carmen is problematic in itself. Rather than appreciating a young girl wearing a subtle amount of makeup — neutral lip gloss, blush, and a hint of mascara — and feeling self-assured in her evolving beauty, the online community reacted as if the 10-year-old was flaunting a full-glam look with the explicit aim of exuding sexuality.
This scenario is akin to prohibiting girls from wearing tank tops and other “provocative” attire in school — society places the burden on girls to preserve their purity when all they seek is comfort and self-assurance. Ironically, it is others who project these intense emotions and inappropriate interpretations in the guise of what is considered “appropriate.” Judging by how Hilaria disregarded negative comments but acknowledged the positive ones, it’s likely that she interprets the situation similarly.