So embarrassed by how I used to look

[Thickhead]

I turned 30 this year and have finally, finally figured out a makeup style and haircut that suit and flatter me. I can't believe the difference it's made to my appearance and I feel so much more confident and 'myself'. I'm finally happy when I look in the mirror.

I just found some old photos of me in my 20s and am so shocked and embarrassed by how I look in them. A really stupid haircut, terrible heavy makeup, chapped, bitten lips (I used to chew on them from anxiety), and clothes that were all wrong for me (I'm very tall and my skirts were way too short!). Just an impression of trying way too hard to look good and totally not pulling it off.

I'm so embarrassed I used to go around looking like that and can't help cringing, wondering what people thought of me. It didn't help that I used to document everything on social media... and take loads of selfies. Like I was showing off, even though really I had no self confidence at all.

I did have body dysmorphic disorder in the past, hence the heavy makeup. I even wore wigs for years because I hated my hair, and some of them looked so fake. I genuinely like how I look now but can't help ruminating on how terrible I looked before.

Any advice on getting over this sense of embarrassment?

When you are 50 you will look back at those photos and be amazed how gorgeous you were. You might laugh at your fashion choices but you certainly won't be judging your looks. I am 60 now and am shocked when I see photos of me back in my 20s. I was BEAUTIFUL but I didn't know it, I just judged myself constantly. My daughter is now mid 20s and looks exactly like I did at the same age. Like you and me she doesn't appreciate what she has. ☹️

Be kind to yourself. Imagine it's someone else you're looking at. Would you be unkind to them?

It's true what pp say. I used to look at school photos and be so ashamed. Now I'm in my 40's I think wow was that really me?? I looked amazing and there were no filters then!!!

Op I really sympathise. It will pass though. This reminds me a bit of a dear friend who is always posting before and after pics of her dramatic slimming journey. I always write underneath - I love that you have reached your goal I'm so proud of you but you were gorgeous in the before pic and happy and had great times.

I destroyed all my old photos of myself, every single one, because I hated how I looked. I regret it now. As someone else advised, try to be kinder to yourself.

I looked like shit in my 20's

I look better now 30 years later