PARENTS IN THE UK have been urged by the government to educate their children about airbrushing – and not to comment on their looks or weight.

Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone has launched a guide aimed at addressing body hangups in young people, which warns parents that remarks about their child’s appearance can have a negative impact on their self-esteem.

The guide recommends that guardians do not give criticism – or even too much praise – about a young person’s appearance, as doing so can place too much focus on physical appearances and cause them to feel pressure. It also advises parents not to discuss their own issues with weight or appearance in front of their children.

The guide says parents should educate their children about how photographs presented in the media are touched-up and altered, as young people uninformed about airbrushing could develop unrealistic standards for themselves.

Uploaded by ukhomeoffice

In pictures: The 7 worst celebrity airbrush jobs