MARY ST. ST. MARY’S ACADEMY OF PALO INC.

Bonifacio S Palo, Leyte 6501

Tel: (053) 832-0207
Emails: [email protected] / [email protected]
School ID: 404696

PRACTICAL RESEARCH I

Factors Influencing the Use of Makeup Among

Female Senior High School Students

RESEARCHERS

Carba, Amelie O.

Costa, Hermie Angel S.

Madera, Princess Sofia C.

Molino, Jose Karlo C.

Plimaco, Maria Hesussa M.

Sacan, Ae-Jhee Boy L.

Velasco, James Enzo C.

March 17, 2025

 CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Cosmetics, which is more commonly called as makeup, refers to "lipstick,

mascara, and eye shadow used to color and beautify the face" (Merriam-

Webster, 2025). Likewise, Britannica Encyclopedia (2024) defines makeup as

products put on the face to enhance it, highlight one's features, or covering up

blemishes. These definitions highlight the significance of makeup as a means to

enhance one's physical appearance as well as fulfilling the social standards and

concepts of beauty.

This study aims to know the factors influencing Female Senior High

School Students to still continue using makeup even it is stated in the school

rules and handbook. The use of makeups in schools had been an interesting

discussion in campuses. Wherein there are some educational institutions that

regulate strict policies regarding to makeups. However, the continuous use of

make-up even it is prohibited can also bring up concern to other students that are

not following the school guidelines.

Women have been wearing makeup in some form since ancient times. For

example, the ancient Egyptian women wore eye paint, Chinese and Japanese

women began adorning their faces with powder made from rice centuries ago,

while European women used chalk-based powders on their face to make their

face whiter. Additionally, in the past makeup was not only used for enhancing
beauty, it was also used for religious rituals, classing systems and even

promoting good health such as preventing harms from the hot sun or curing

pimples on the face. However, nowadays, people wear makeup for very different

reasons. Also, advanced technology and experimenting have made different

types of makeup readily available and easier to apply. In fact, not only grown-

ups, but even more and more teenagers around the world start experimenting

with makeup early.

The increasing use of makeup among teenagers is a global phenomenon.

S. Kim, and S. Yang (2023) highlights how teens are introducing makeup into

their regular routine. Makeup among teen girls has been becoming more

fashionable in most cultures. In this regard, the study aims at focusing attention

on the female students, most especially the high school seniors as they tend to

use makeup most frequently than in other lower-grade levels of learners due to

the various factors relating to their state of development as well as environment.

In this context, recognizing peer influence is crucial. Students in lower

grades, particularly those in junior high, frequently look up to their older peers for

social cues and habits, including makeup application. Because upperclassmen

are viewed as role models, their actions can have an impact on younger

students, who may be inspired to follow suit in an effort to gain social acceptance

or maturity. Numerous studies have observed that younger children are

increasingly imitating the actions of their older counterparts. For example, a study

by Pintrich & Schunk (2002) found that children often imitate the behaviors they

see in their peers, particularly those in higher grade levels, since they see them
as more experienced or competent. As the younger pupils enter senior high

school, this peer pressure may cause them to experiment with makeup.

As kids become older, they become more mindful of their appearance due

to increased exposure to friends, social media, and cultural beauty standards. In

this way, Borling et al. (2022), stated that high school seniors have more social

freedom and independence than their younger counterparts, therefore it

becomes a way of self-expression and personal grooming. This age group also

tends to be there when events such as proms, presentations, and social

gatherings are prevalent which encourage makeup. Furthermore, students who

plan to enter adulthood perceive the use of makeup as a way to enhance more

mature and professional appearance.

Caguioa (2019) also added that senior high school female students often

have social pressure to maintain the beauty standards due to the social

interaction and influence of the social media. The trends and beauty tutorials for

older teenagers to experiment with cosmetics are provided by Instagram, TikTok,

and Facebook. Peer comparison reinforces this, since students who wear

makeup are viewed as more confident or socially skilled, which spreads to other

kids. Senior high school students are more prone to wear cosmetics than

younger grade levels because they are testing the boundaries of self-expression,

societal standards, and the demands of their emerging societal duties.

The results of this study, will help the school better understand the

reasons behind students' use of makeup, providing valuable insight into their

motivations and actions. It will be only by studying the reasons behind such
actions that a school will find out whether the constant wearing of makeup

despite the rules and regulations of the school is due to peer pressure, self-

expression, or influence of social media. This will make the administration create

better plans on how to contain the problem. The school may also use this study

to facilitate a concentrated, healthy, and polite learning environment where

appearance is not superior to academic success. The school will be able to make

a positive learning environment when it deals with the root cause of the

application of makeup among students and instructs them to reconcile their

personal identity with following school regulations.

Extending these results, the present study is designed to investigate the

reason underlying the continued use of makeup by female senior high school

students after school regulations restricted makeup use. As the social media,

peer pressure and desire for self-affirmation increase, many students view

makeup as a key component of who they are and how they are accepted by their

peers. Though the schools anticipate compliance with extremely formal dress

codes, the constant application of cosmetics suggests deeper reasons that have

to be dissected. By finding what contributes to this behavior, the research aims to

provide a better insight into the students' beliefs and the social pressures

surrounding them and, therefore, light on the reasons that necessitate makeup to

be worn despite the existence of rules.

For this reason, the aim of this study is to analyze these basic factors and

support the need for schools to intervene properly. This knowledge will contribute
to school administrators developing policies that move beyond simply applying

discipline and to also address students psychological and social needs. Through

a focus on the leading factors, this study lays a solid basis for schools to design a

balanced policy that can encourage compliance but also ensure care of students'

self-expression. In conclusion, the research intends to promote responsibility,

respect and a nurturing school atmosphere, in which education of discipline and

teaching of personal development are equally respected.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

This study aims to determine the factors why Female Senior High School

Students are still using make up despite school rules prohibition of wearing

makeup inside the conducted campus. The study aims to answer the following

questions:

1. How do female senior high school students perceive the no-makeup rule?
 2. What factor influences female Senior High School students to wear

makeup despite the school’s no-makeup rule?

3. Why do some female Senior High School Students still wear makeup on

school premises despite the no-makeup rule?

SCOPE AND DELIMITATIONS

The purpose of this study is to know the factors that influences the Senior

High School Students to use makeup despite the school rules. Researchers will

focus on conducting the study in a Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM)

administered private school in Palo, Leyte in the S.Y 2024-2025. Participants of

the study are the Female Senior High School Students of this institution.
 The students are delimited only to five to ten participants. Data will be

gathered through interviews among Female Senior High School student, aged

16-18 years old who will be chosen using the Purposive Sampling method, this

involves selecting respondents based on specific criteria relevant to the research

objectives which the ones who experience using makeup. The limitation for the

allotted time in conducting the study will be from January - March 2025, using the

available resources the researchers have for the study.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Understanding the significance of this study is essential, it shows the

possible effects and benefits it can provide. This research will help determine if

these what are the factors affect female senior high school students to use

makeup. The findings will be useful to different individuals and groups including

the following:
Female Senior High School Students. This study will beneficial to the female

senior high school students how makeup affects their self-image. It also teaches

them to make smart choices about makeup while following school rules and

understand the consequences of their actions, particularly how it affects their

compliance with school policies.

Students. Junior high school students can learn about makeup before they start

using it. It gives them knowledge about the reasons for using makeup and the

rules in school.

Teachers. Teachers could also benefit as the study helps teachers understand

why students use makeup and how it affects their confidence and behavior. It

also gives them insights into whether makeup policies are needed in school.

Parents. This study can help parents understand why their children use makeup

and how it influences them regarding self-esteem and socialization. It also

enables them to guide their children to make sound decisions on the application

of makeup while taking into consideration school policies.

Guidance In-charge/Office. Guidance In-charge/Office can utilize this research

to learn why female senior high school students use makeup, whether it

influences their self-esteem and social lives. It offers good information to aid
students in making educated decisions about makeup while keeping within

school regulation.

Institution. This study is important for the institution as it provides insights into

how makeup influences students behavior and self-expression. Understanding

these factors can help the school develop or improve policies related to makeup

use among female senior high school students.

Future Researcher. For future researchers this study will serve as a helpful

reference for those who wants to explore makeup use among students. It

provides useful data and insights that can guide them in conducting similar or

more detailed studies.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

This section of the study provides definitions of key terms used in the

study. Each term is defined whether it is either operationally and conceptually

used or both, to make it clear and enhance easier understanding of its relevance

to the study.
Makeup. Makeup is the cosmetic products used by the female senior high

school students of St. Mary’s Academy of Palo Inc. for personal grooming, self-

expression or social acceptance. Conceptually, it is known as cosmetics such as

lipstick or powder applied to the face, used to enhance or alter the appearance.

Influence. It refers to how peer groups, social media, and beauty standards,

among other internal and external variables, affect senior high school female

students' decisions to wear or not wear makeup. Conceptually, it is the act or

power of producing an effect without apparent exertion of force or direct exercise

of command.

Female Senior High School Students. These are the main participants in this

study on cosmetics use are the female students in grades 11 and 12 who attend

the conducted institution. Conceptually, these are typically individuals enrolled in

the final years of secondary education, often encompassing grades 10 through

12, depending on the educational system of the country.

Prohibition. This refers to the rule of the school that restricts female senior high

school students from wearing makeup as stated in the student handbook or

school rules.
Student handbook. It is the official document that the conducted institution

provides outlining school policies, such as rules regarding students' usage of

makeup and personal appearance.

School Policy. These are the rules and guidelines set by the institution that

governs the student’s behavior in the school including using makeup inside the

school. Conceptually it refers to formal written guidelines established by

educational institutions to regulate various aspects such as physical activity

practices and behaviors among school-aged children and adolescents.

Beauty standard. It refers to the cultural or societal norms around physical

appearance that might affect how senior high school girls view makeup and

whether or not they choose to wear it.

RVM. It refers to the acronym for Religious of the Virgin Mary, the Catholic group

that manages the conducted private school, making sure its policies for student

conduct and dress are consonant with its mission and values in education.

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

INPUT PROCESS OUPUT

 Factors influencing Analysis of data Identification of

makeup use among factors influencing

a. Interview
female senior high makeup use and
Questionnaire
school students (e.g., recommendations to

a. Peer influence reinforce school rules

b. Descriptive
b. Self-expression
Analysis
c. Social media

impact

Figure 1. A Schema Representing the Conceptual Framework of the

Study

Figure 1 depicts the conceptual framework of the study in a visual form,

showing the research process from input to output. The input is composed of

factors affecting makeup use among female senior high school students, such as
peer influence, self-expression, and social media impact. These factors are the

bases of the research. Within the process level, research entails the identification

of these influences and understanding their impacts through techniques like

interview questionnaires and descriptive analysis. The end output of the research

will give insights into the prevalence of these influences and give

recommendations to enhance school regulations on the use of makeup. The

above constitutes a systematic guide for exploring how varying factors influence

students' choices of makeup.

CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURES/STUDIES

This part of the study reviews literature and studies on makeup uses

among students, emphasizing beauty standards, peer influence, self-expression,

and the impact of school policies. It highlights how personal and social factors

drive makeup use despite institutional restrictions.

RELATED LITERATURES

According to Pinugu, E. (2025) the use of beauty products by children are

becoming more alarming and normalized nowadays. This circumstance may lead

children to face dissatisfaction with their body image as they get to know the

beauty standard that the society has set up and when they start to figure out who

they truly are. They may as well experience a change in their perspective of what

is personal beauty through looking at the pictures of their idols and pictures of a
person that is altered or filtered. Certainly, the use of makeup can indubitably

boost self-confidence and enables us to express ourselves, however, it can also

become an unhealthy obsession that will affect how we see and feel about

ourselves. Therefore, parents or guardians should do something like having an

open conversation with their child to help them know the positive and negative

effects of beauty products both physically mentally. Parents or guardians should

teach their children to see beauty trends as a source of creativity and enjoyment

and that how we look should never be our basis of our self-worth.

According to Rivera, M. A. (2024) the reason why there are people wo are

obsessed of wearing makeup is because they are insecure of their appearance

and was bullied and teased a lot for their looks that it affects their self-esteem. It

can also be because of their acne marks or scars that they have been trying to

hide which is why they cover it with makeup so they could feel confident of their

selves. Hiding those scars in the face with makeup makes them feel pretty that

once they wash their face, they can’t help but feel insecure. Tendency, it leads

them to always use makeup when they take pictures, when they go outside, and

afraid that their face will be wet. But then even through all of that, we should see

beauty in ourselves and in our scars. Our flaws don’t take away our beauty, they

are a part of who we are. Another, we should always be reminded that beauty is

not something we can buy or something that takes a skill to be achieved and

beauty is not the people we see in magazines, rather, it is each of our souls

having a kind heart.

 According to Lianne Garcia (2024) The beauty standards of the

Philippines were heavily influenced by Western trends, blame it on the fact that

we’ve been colonized for hundreds of years. This meant whitening our skin was a

huge industry, very much so between 2000-2010. Every other beauty and self-

care item had kojic acid, papaya extract, or glutathione to lighten the skin. You’d

see base products like foundation and face powders in white and beige that were

nowhere near most Pinoy skin tones.Come the ‘10s, local beauty brands hit hard.

There were a lot of makeup and skincare products formulated by relative

nobodies in the business that found success, especially online. In fact, Colourette

Cosmetics launched their Colourtints in 2015, and the product is well-loved

today. Celebrities also launched their own makeup brands, there’s Anne Curtis’

blk Cosmetics and Vice Ganda’s Vice Cosmetics as examples.

Makeup has been part of the life of a woman for centuries, used as a

medium of expression, confidence enhancer, and cultural identifier. Makeup, as

Meiya (2021) states, is not only a beauty tool but a necessity in everyday life for

most women in the Philippines. The social, occupational, and personal

empowerment are the reasons why makeup is essential in life. The popularity of

makeup in the Philippines is also due to evolving beauty standards that have

been shaped by historical, social, and media-influenced elements. Research

shows that the beauty industry remains booming as women more and more use

cosmetics as a necessity and not a luxury.

Many influencers are promoting make-up so that other people would also

purchase. Beauty and lifestyle of an influencer have the capacity to persuade the
decision-making of their audiences or followers by providing true, convincing

claims, and benefits of a product. According to RepublicAsia Media. (2024) Gen

Zs have a strong tendency to get hooked on a product and repeatedly purchase

different items with similar benefits just because their favorite influencer

recommended it. Makeup overconsumption is often unintentional, stemming from

the desire to search for one’s “holy grail” product. This trend predominantly

affects younger generations, who may lack sufficient self-control when buying

makeup. This generation is invested in having all new releases of makeup.

However, some people should know that purchasing new products, even if you

don’t need to, will eventually lead you to waste money rather than saving up for

more important or more effective (makeup) products that work for you.

According to Borling K., et al. (2023) Young people who are self-conscious

about how they look are less inclined to interact socially. Others use makeup in

the hope of looking better as they struggle with self-confidence. Seeing

unrealistic standards of beauty and makeup tutorials on social media significantly

accounts for this obsession. These visual illustrations have led many into

covering defects and imperfections with facial adornments, temporarily improving

confidence. Still, overdependence on cosmetics can actually heighten self-

esteem problems by bringing attention to the need for self-acceptance beyond

just physical appearance. In contrast, more self-assured peers have no problem

socializing and appreciate values beyond appearances. Inner virtues such as

kindness and sense of humor can promote optimism with fewer focus on

ephemeral bodies.
 Ma Y. (2024) investigated the role of makeup on self-conception and

social relationships among Chinese university students. Under the increasing

trend of social media and the cosmetic industry, makeup has emerged as an

important mode of self-construction and social positioning. On the basis of a

mixed-methods design integrating qualitative and quantitative data from 66

participants, the research scrutinized results by SPSS and thematic analysis. The

findings indicated a high correlation between the use of makeup and self-

concept., which had an impact on personality expression, self-esteem, and group

membership. The research highlighted the contribution of makeup to identity

development in young adulthood, where it enabled people to improve their

confidence, and movement through social situations.

According to Sadeel (2023) He Discussed that beauty standards have

undergone significant transformations throughout history, shaping societal norms

and profoundly influencing the perceptions of attractiveness. These ever-

changing standards exert a profound impact on the lives of teenage girls, leaving

a lasting impression on their self-perception and well-being. This article aims to

explore the specific ways in which beauty standards have evolved over time,

highlighting the stark differences and examining the detrimental effects they

impose on the self-image and mental health of adolescent girls.

Greenfield (2018) explores the influence of beauty propaganda on female

consumers, considering how advertising constructs societal standards of beauty

and affects women's self-esteem and buying behaviors. The research integrates

existing literature on media influence, social comparison, and consumer

psychology to illustrate how idealized standards of beauty perpetuate a cycle of

dissatisfaction and enhanced consumption. It also looks at the historical evolution

of beauty marketing and considers how changing cultural attitudes towards

gender portrayal might shape the future representation of women in media. It

emphasizes the ongoing role of advertising in reinforcing gendered expectations

and the potential for the gap to close in media representation.

Makeup has been explored as a tool for self-expression, identity

formation, and therapeutic purposes in mental health settings. Makeup

application has been identified as a form of creative media in expressive arts

therapy by a critical review of the literature, that can assist individuals in fostering

self-confidence, enhancing emotional adjustment, and consolidating personal

experience. Historical and cultural frames also point to how cosmetics have been

employed to project and reconstruct self-image and social dynamics. This article

highlights the psychological and therapeutic implication of makeup beyond looks,

especially in building self-empowerment and emotional strength (Triolo-

Rodriguez, 2023).

RELATED STUDIES

According to Parreño, K. B., et al., (2019) in their study, the line "don't

judge a book by its cover" have lost its true meaning in this generation. How a

person look, is the basis on how individuals judge others even their selves. Ectoff

et al. (2011) explained that cosmetics is able to change how a person look and
such. The appearance of someone impacts the way others treat and

communicate with them.

According to Lanzuela J., et al., (2019) nowadays, students think that

being beautiful has a huge impact in our society. For students especially the girls,

they think that being good looking gives them courage to face and communicate

with others while being comfortable. Unfortunately, there are students who has

insecurities in their faces such as having acne, blemishes, and acne marks that

leads them to being criticized by their fellow students. Since they are criticized by

their looks, they can't help but use cosmetic products to achieve how they want

to look.

According to Ariola F. et al (2023), cosmetics and the rise of their

popularity among girls today has always been a topic of interest and concern.

While some choose not to use cosmetics products, others can't seem to leave

home without them. In this society, makeup has become a standard for women

and caneven be seen on children in grade school.

Women today often have a great sense of self-consciousness about their

physical appearance, cleanliness, and beauty, according to Dela Cruz et al.

(2023). In today's environment, one's look greatly influences how they come

across and promotes comfort and confidence. This frame of view bolsters the

notion that "appearance is an asset." The continuous demand for beauty

products reflects people's strong desire to enhance their appearance also many

people desire aesthetic improvements in order to achieve personal fulfillment as

well as to improve their general well-being and motivation to engage in other

activities.

Lubiano, D. (2019) talked about why people apply cosmetics, especially

young people. Many people think that applying makeup makes one look more

appealing, which increases confidence. However, adoption of cosmetics is also

influenced by family members who wear it and by curiosity, despite these

advantages, there are issues when makeup is applied to cover up flaws as well

as to accentuate them, also this dependence on makeup can have a detrimental

effect on self-esteem by making people unhappy with how they look naturally

without it, self-acceptance and an understanding of one's inherent value may be

impeded by an unhealthy reliance on cosmetic goods.

Kim and Jin (2018) reported an exploratory study examining the

magnitude and process by which elementary school students wore makeup. The

interview was conducted with 13 sixth grade girls in Seoul has brought to light the

fact that the peer pressure (causers being mostly their same-group peers and the

female family member-sister, mother) pressures them to use cosmetics. The

students described being more attractive after applying the makeup which they

learned mostly from YouTube videos and peer recommendations. Normally

sunscreen, whitening function sun cushions, lip tints and some concealers are on

sale. Purchasing habits varied, with students' parents often buying basic skincare

products, while the students themselves used their own money for cosmetics

used in makeup application.

 Bai Y. (2024) researched the determinants of adolescent cosmetic use,

focusing on the impact of social norms and media representations on teenage

beauty ideals. The research critically explored how peer pressure and advertising

push adolescents towards makeup use while also pointing out the issue of toxic

ingredients in non-regulated cosmetics. In addition, Bai discussed the post-

pandemic consumer trend, reporting an increased focus on skincare and

wellness-based products among adolescents, which the study prioritized

regulatory guidance and consumer information to guarantee cosmetic product

safety and transparency, the results highlight the influence of changing societal

expectations that shape adolescent beauty practices, strengthening the role of

peer influence and self-concept in cosmetic consumption.

According to Moslehi et al. (2024), the prevalence of cosmetic use among

students reflects the significant importance society places on beauty, for both

personal and professional success. The results of this study can be used to

inform educational initiatives that support individuality and health-conscious

beauty standards.

Udayanga et al. (2024) also examined the potential health concerns

associated with cosmetic procedures in Sri Lanka, the growing use of personal

care items by teens. This study assessed students' attitudes, behaviors, and

knowledge regarding the use of cosmetics. At least one cosmetic product was

used by 96.4% of participants, with the most common categories being face

creams (63.2%), body lotions/hand creams (60.6%), and scents (65.6%). The

main reasons for wearing makeup, as follows, were to follow fashion trends
(67.9%), enhance one's appearance (89.3%), protect the skin from the elements

(62%), and increase one's sense of self-worth and self-image (89.3%).

Anchieta et al. (2021) argue that makeup application and the desire to

look better can influence women's self-perceptions in a variety of ways. This

study examined Brazilian women's self-assessments at various makeup levels,

including a simulation phase in which colorless makeup was applied. The results

showed that women felt more feminine, healthier, and confident even during the

simulation phase, also these feelings only increased after applying cosmetics.

Competence remained unaffected, whereas genuine beautifying merely

increased self-confidence. According to the study, perceived and actual changes

to women's appearance may have different effects on their self-esteem.

In conclusion, people can have both positive and bad impacts from

wearing cosmetics, the need to hide flaws, get over fears, deal with past traumas

like bullying, increase self-confidence, and conform to beauty standards are

some of the reasons why individuals, particularly women, utilize makeup. The

use of cosmetics is also impacted by peer and familial pressures, while makeup

can enhance one's look and overall health, an over reliance or dependence on it

can lead to unhealthy relationships, people may be prevented from accepting

their natural beauty and regaining their confidence without the use of makeup if

they utilize it as a coping mechanism. People should therefore value their

inherent beauty regardless of whether they use cosmetics, and makeup should

be seen as an optional addition rather than a necessity.

 CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

RESEARCH DESIGN

The study will utilize the phenomenology research design to examine

female senior high school students' lived experiences in relation to makeup

usage. Phenomenology is being used because, through it, the researchers will

be able to learn how such students think about and understand why they use

makeup, even if it is prohibited by school authorities. As noted by an article

published in The Manila Times (2024), phenomenological research design

targets the investigation of uncommon or meaning-full events to identify people's

lived experiences as part of a particular group. This research design tries to

reveal the meanings assigned to a phenomenon by the participants, not just

sensory perception but also thoughts, emotions, and actions.

Lastly, the research will use purposive sampling, a technique where

participants are chosen deliberately who have firsthand experience with the

phenomenon being studied, in this instance, female senior high school students

from the conducted institution who wear makeup despite school prohibition.

Purposive sampling ensures that the study focuses on individuals who can

provide relevant and significant data. In order to better understand students'

experiences, the research will employ this sampling approach and research

design to comprehensive, descriptive data that will help us identify the personal,

social, and psychological factors that impact makeup use.

RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS

The participants of the study are the senior high school female students.

The researchers will obtain a list from the Supreme Student Council (SSC)

indicating students who still uses makeup despite school regulations that

prohibits it. The researchers will then, from the list pick five to ten students,

between the ages of 16 to 18 years old, as respondents of the study. Selection is

based on those whose lives and experiences would be relevant to the study's

goal of understanding the social, psychological, and personal considerations

involved in makeup usage. Through the collection of information from these

respondents, the research hopes to reveal reoccurring patterns and motivations

for their sustained use of cosmetics within the school grounds.

RESEARCH LOCALE

The study will be conducted and held in one of the private Catholic school

administered by the RVM in Palo, Leyte. The said school was selected as the

site of study because of its established Senior High School program with three

academic strands: Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM), Humanities

and Social Sciences (HUMSS), and Science, Technology, Engineering, and

Mathematics (STEM).

This private school is known for its strong emphasis on religious practices,

strict observance of rules, and its core values of faith, excellence, and service.

The school’s philosophy aligns with its RVM (Religious of the Virgin Mary)

charism, which focuses on evangelical self-discipline, love for the Blessed Virgin

Mary, and commitment to serve God and others. This environment, then forms

the culture of the school, including policies, such as the prohibition of makeup

usage. With this context, the school offers a contextual and organized

environment for identifying the factors influencing female senior high school

students to persist in using cosmetics in the face of its prohibition. This will

enable the researchers to gather comprehensive information regarding the

social, psychological, and personal reasons underlying makeup use within a

religious-based education system towards a better understanding of the goals of

the study.

SAMPLING TECHNIQUE
 The sampling technique used in the study, is the purposive sampling, a

type of non-probability/non-random sampling where participants are deliberately

chosen based on specific criteria relevant to the study. According to Steve

Campbell et. al (2020) Purposive sampling strategies move away from any

random form of sampling and are strategies to make sure that specific kinds of

cases of those that could possibly be included are part of the final sample in the

research study. The reasons for adopting a purposive strategy are based on the

assumption that, given the aims and objectives of the study, specific kinds of

people may hold different and important views about the ideas and issues at

question and therefore need to be included in the sample. The researchers used

purposive sampling to ensure that the respondents met the necessary

qualifications, making them the most suitable sources of data for this study.

RESEARCH INSTRUMENT

The study will use semi-structured interviews in gathering qualitative data

regarding the lived-experiences of senior high school girls who use makeup

despite school prohibition. The method allows for means to explore main themes

such as individual reasons, influence of peers, social media effect, self-

expression, confidence, and perceptions of school policies in-depth without

compromising on structure. The interview questionnaire which will serve as a

guide is shown at Appendix A.

The interview questions will be reviewed by research experts and advisers

to ensure clarity and reliability. Interviews will be conducted in a private room,

and with the agreement of participants with the consent form, which is shown in

Appendix B, they will be audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed for repeating

themes. This then helps the researchers gain significant ideas of students'

perception, emotion, and drive for makeup use in a controlled school

environment.

VALIDATION OF RESEARCH INSTRUMENT

To test the validity and reliability of the instrument, the researchers
consulted experts and did a pilot test. Three research expert teachers, who were
also the panelists of the study, reviewed the interview guide. They analyzed the
questions in terms of clarity, appropriateness, and compliance with the objectives
of the research. Their comments were given utmost consideration, and revisions
were made as required, to finalize the instrument.
After expert validation, a pilot test was carried out on three students who
were outside the study itself. The reason for this pilot test was to establish if the
questions were comprehensible, understandable, and well-suited to gather useful
responses. On completion of the pilot testing, the researchers confirmed that the
students understood the questions as originally intended. Minor adjustments
were incorporated to enhance the clarity of the questions where they were
needed. From this validation procedure, the research tool was improved to make
it highly effective in collecting accurate and appropriate qualitative data.

DATA GATHERING PROCEDURE

In order to make sure that the research results are valid and credible, the

process of gathering data will be systematic and organized. First, there will be an

inquiry with the Supreme Student Council (SSC) to provide a list specifying

female senior high school students of St. Mary's Academy of Palo Inc. who still

wears makeup despite school prohibition. The list will be used as the primary

basis for the possible respondents of the study.

 After the list is obtained, five to ten female senior high school students will

be asked to be involved in the study. The selection process will aim to gather a

diverse range of experiences and perspectives. Semi-structured interviews will

then be conducted, allowing participants to talk about their personal story, why

they use makeup and the influencing factors surrounding their use of it like social

media, peer influences, and self-expression.

Lastly, after the interviews, the data gathered will be thoroughly examined

to find reoccurring themes and findings. The answers will assist the researchers

in knowing why some students still wear makeup even though makeup is

prohibited at school and how this action affects their self-esteem, confidence,

and compliance with regulations. This method of gathering data is used to obtain

comprehensive knowledge about what factors are motivating makeup usage, so

the study can gather relevant and significant information that could be beneficial

for the school in reinforcing the school policy.

APPENDIX A: SEMI-STRUCTURED INTERVIEW GUIDE

This interview guide explores the reasons why female senior high school

students wear makeup despite school’s rule prohibiting it.

1. What do you know about the school’s rules on makeup use?

2. Do you this rule is fair? Why or why not?

3. How do you feel about this rule? Does it affect how you express

yourself? Why or Why not?

4. When do you usually choose to wear makeup?

 5. Who influences your choice to wear makeup? How?

6. How do the people around you react when you wear makeup?

7. How does wearing makeup affect how you feel about yourself?

8. What makes you decide to wear makeup?

9. Can you share a situation or experience that made you want to wear

makeup?

10. Have you ever adjusted your makeup choices based on certain events

or situations at school? Can you describe why?

This guide to interviewing is intended to guarantee an open-ended but

structured conversation to enable participants to articulate their experience while

maintaining the focus on the objectives of the study

APPENDIX B: CONSENT FORM

Student’s Consent Form

Praised be Jesus and Mary!

I, ____________________________, a respondent from the conducted study entitled "

Factors Influencing the use of Makeup Among Female Senior High School Students " is
willing to participate in the actual interview-questionnaire and answer the questions
provided by the researchers, with honesty and integrity. With this regard, the
respondents will be sharing their profound knowledge in answering the interview-
questionnaire regarding to the said study. Furthermore, the researchers are responsible
for recording and collecting data from the respondents, and are convinced that the
collected data will be authorized and remain confidential. Thank you for your kind
consideration and participation!

Respectfully yours,

The Grade 11 Researchers _______________________

Thumbmark Signature
 REFERENCES

Ariola, F., et al. (2023). Effects of makeup prohibition on self-esteem. Retrieved

from https://www.scribd.com/document/681060503/Effects-of-Makeup-

Prohibition-on-Self-esteem

Borling, K., et al. (2022). Cosmetics product and self-concept among senior high

school students: An educational perspective. ASEAN Journal of

Educational Research and Technology, 1(2), 51-58. Retrieved from

https://ejournal.bumipublikasinusantara.id/index.php/ajert/article/view/134

Borling, K., et al. (2023). Cosmetics product and self-concept among senior high

school students: An educational perspective. ASEAN Journal of

 Educational Research and Technology, 2(1), 51-56. Retrieved from

https://ejournal.bumipublikasinusantara.id/index.php/ajert/article/viewFile/

134/130

Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. (2024). Cosmetic. Encyclopedia

Britannica. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/art/cosmetic

Caguioa, J. (2019). Cosmetic product usage and self-confidence among HUMSS

students of Bayambang National High School. Retrieved from

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334122046_Cosmetic_Product_

Usage_and_Self-Confidence_among_HUMSS_Students_of_Bayambang

Campbell, S., et al. (2020). Purposive sampling: Complex or simple? Research

case examples. Journal of Research in Nursing, 25(8), 652–661.

Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7932468/

Dela Cruz, F. A., et al. (2023). Effects of the thriving local makeup brands on

purchasing behavior of students studying within the City of Manila.

Retrieved from

https://journal.ijresm.com/index.php/ijresm/article/view/2887/2898

Garcia, L. (2024). Then and now: The Philippine beauty industry. MakeUp

Science Asia. Retrieved from https://makeupscienceasia.com/then-and-

now-the-philippine-beauty-industry/

Greenfield, S. (2018). When beauty is the beast: The effects of beauty

propaganda on female consumers (Honors thesis). University of Nebraska

 Omaha. Retrieved from

https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/university_honors_program/20/

Kim, S., & Yang, S. (2023). What promotes adolescent girls' makeup in South

Korea? Fashion leadership, social support from friends, and self-esteem.

Journal of the Korean Society of Clothing and Textiles, 47(2), 256–276.

Retrieved from

https://koreascience.kr/article/JAKO202317752307875.page

Kim, Y.-I., & Jin, H.-J. (2018). An exploratory study on makeup of elementary

school students. Journal of Fashion Business, 22(5), 52-63. Retrieved from

https://koreascience.kr/article/JAKO201809355933193.page

Lanzuela, J. G., et al. (2019). Cosmetic product usage and self-confidence

among HUMSS students of Bayambang. Retrieved from

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334122046_Cosmetic_Product_

Usage_and_Self-Confidence_among_HUMSS_Students_of_Bayambang

Lubiano, D. (2019). Confidently beautiful: Perceived effects of cosmetic products

on students' self-esteem. Retrieved from

https://www.scribd.com/document/397021362/Confidently-Beautiful-

Perceived-Effects-of-Cosmetic-Products-on-Students-Self-Esteem

Ma, Y. (2024). The influence of makeup on individual self-identity: An exploratory

study. The Kyoto Conference on Arts, Media & Culture 2024, Official

Conference Proceedings. Retrieved from https://papers.iafor.org/wp-

content/uploads/papers/kamc2024/KAMC2024_84516.pdf
Meiya. (2021). Why makeup is an integral part of women living in the Philippines.

Meiya. Retrieved from https://meiya.com.ph/why-makeup-is-an-integral-

part-of-women-living-in-the-philippines/

Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. (2025). Makeup. Retrieved from

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/makeup

Moslehi, S., et al. (2024). Predisposing factors of using cosmetics in Iranian

female students: Application of prototype willingness model. Retrieved

from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38939218/

Palumbo, R., et al. (2017). Does make-up make you feel smarter? The “lipstick

effect” extended to academic achievement. Cogent Psychology, 4(1).

Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1080/23311908.2017.1327635

Parreño, K. B., et al. (2019). The significance of makeup on the self-esteem of

senior high school students through communication: A phenomenological

study. Retrieved from https://www.scribd.com/document/426414075/A-

Qualitative-study-about-cosmetics-and-self-esteem

Pintrich, P. R., & Schunk, D. H. (2002). Motivation in education: Theory,

research, and applications (2nd ed.). Pearson Prentice Hall. Retrieved

from https://searchworks.stanford.edu/view/6774934

Republic Asia Media. (2024). Keeping up with the Gen Zs: Overconsumption of

trending makeup. RepublicAsia. Retrieved from

https://republicasiamedia.com/generation/keeping-up-with-the-gen-zs-

overconsumption-of-trending-makeup/amp/
Pinugu, E. (2025). Selling beauty to kids and tweens. Inquirer.net. Retrieved from

https://opinion.inquirer.net/173291/selling-beauty-to-kids-and-tweens

Rivera, M. A. (2024). Watercolor beauty. Inquirer.net. Retrieved from

https://opinion.inquirer.net/170506/watercolor-beauty

The Manila Times. (2024, February 15). Phenomenological research design. The

Manila Times. Retrieved from

https://www.manilatimes.net/2024/02/15/campus-press/phenomenological-

research-design/1932633/amp

Triolo-Rodriguez, R. (2023). Exploring Core Concepts and Uses of Makeup in

Expressive Arts Therapy and Mental Health: A Critical Review of the

Literature. Retrieved from

https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?

article=1695&context=expressive_theses