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People Who Used To Be “Ugly Ducklings” Share Their Transformations, And We Can Barely Recognize Them
Growing up can be incredibly awkward. Our bodies are still developing. We’re covered in spots. And our fashion sense might just match our bad posture. Sometimes, looking awkward doesn’t automatically stop with our teenage years (my collection of baggy sweaters says ‘hi’) and can continue into our twenties and thirties, too.
However, some people have changed incredibly over the years, starting out as ‘ugly ducklings’ and turning into beautiful swans that barely anyone can recognize anymore. One of the places where they share their inspirational before-and-afters is the ‘Ugly Duckling’ subreddit. As you’re checking out these awesome transformations, remember to upvote your favorite ones, dear Pandas. When you’re done, have a look through Bored Panda’s earlier lists about the subreddit right here and here.
We all know that being a good person is more important than having the perfect looks. However, if given the chance, a lot of people would choose both. And there’s nothing wrong with wanting to look how you feel inside.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
From About 11ish(?) To 25. My Skin Cleared Up, I Got Braces, Learned How To Make Up And Fill In My Eyebrows. I Was Made Fun Of/Very Lonely Growing Up, And I Feel The Way That I Looked Had A Big Impact On Why I Am The Way That I Am Now. “Be Kind”
RELATED:
#2
16-19 Or: How I Learned To Start Shaving And Escape The Neckbeard
#3
Age 14 To 19. Lost Some Weight And Gained Some Confidence Along The Way
The ‘Ugly Duckling’ subreddit is a community of over 116k ‘enthusiasts’ who “turned into butterflies” over the years. The subreddit celebrates late bloomers, positive personal changes, and motivational transformations.
Being a late bloomer is nothing to be ashamed of. It can happen at any time. And the process can be drawn out or happen nearly overnight, just like with Neville Longbottom’s actor Matthew Lewis who ‘Longbottomed’ and caught a lot of us unaware of what just happened.
Scott Barry Kaufman writes on Psychology Today that a lot of human traits (including physical attractiveness) are under genetic control and can take “decades” to emerge.
#4
16-20. Does This Count?
#5
12 - 24 Even My Family Doesn't Recognize Me These Days, It's Nice
#6
Life Begins At 40! 25 --> 40
“There is one way of becoming an early bloomer, but there are an infinite number of ways of being a late bloomer. Also, the more complex a trait, the more ways that a child can become a late bloomer for that trait. This means that the most appreciated abilities in society, such as creativity and leadership will rarely fully present itself at a young age, all at once,” Kaufman explains.
He adds that even though society tends to celebrate child prodigies, being an early bloomer is no guarantee that you will continue to be successful. Dedication, hard work, and moving towards your goals step by step are just as (if not even more) important as talent.
#8
Left-13, Right-34
#9
Age 17-24, Was Bullied A Lot Growing Up
#10
12 And 29. Still With The Short Hair And Glasses, Some Things Never Change
#11
11 vs. 28, Lost That Baby Fat And Learned How To Smile
#12
Left 12, Right 24
#13
2015 - 2019. Basically, I Cleaned Myself Up And Started Over!
Boopie Dew 4 years ago
You look younger, did you age backwards. Glad you're doing so well now.
#14
Then: 320 Lbs, Face Always Red, Angry At Dad, Ready To Die For Punk Rock. Now: 250 Lbs, Skin Healthier, Love My Dad, Punk Rock Is Pretty Ok But Being An Adult Is Pretty Ok Too
#15
13, 15, 20 And 27 Years Old
#16
(Spoiler Alert) I Didn't Peak In Highschool Lol
#17
Age 12 To Age 26... Still Feel A Lot Like The Kid On The Left
#18
11—>30 Braces Were Good To Me
#19
19 To 20. I Would Like To Thank My Dermatologist
#20
A Slight Change
#21
17-24, Went Through Horrible Cystic Acne, Lost 50 Lbs, Got Braces, And Dropped An Emotionally Abusive Boyfriend
Boopie Dew 4 years ago
No, she says she was with someone who made her feel badly about her self worth. And she believed him. Sometimes it happens slowly and you don't know you're being abused until its too late. She got self confidence once she was out of the relationship and then worked on herself. Total respect.
#22
4 Years Later (16-20)
#23
Age 15 To 21. Lost Some Weight, It Sucks My Eyes Didn't Get Bigger
#24
12-27. Lost A Chin, But Gained A Smile
#25
Age ~11 To 20 - I Owe A Lot To Contacts, Braces, Filling In My Eyebrows, And My Hairline Somehow Growing Forward
Perfumista Perfumista 4 years ago
Don't you wish when you were younger that you had a clue how you'd turn out? Beautiful.
#26
Mother’s Day With My Momma 2014-2018
#27
10 Year Different. Ages 13 & 23
Sean Montgomery 4 years ago
Not really an ugly duckling transformation as you were never ugly.
#28
From 17 To 18, I Don't Even Know
#29
Always Felt So Geeky In High School. I Even Went Through A Period Where I Wanted To End My Life In Middle School Because Of My Weight And Look. Now I’m In My 30’s And Feeling The Most Confident I’ve Been In My Life. Big Thanks For Braces And Lasik
#30
16 vs. 46. Took Awhile To Get Here, Lol.
#31
13-21 Puberty Really Hit Me Hard And Shot Me Up To 6ft8
#32
From 18 To 23. A Completely Different Person Now
#33
7 Years Can Make A Crazy Difference
#34
Found An Old School Photo (14/29)
#35
12 vs. 20. Had To Stop Riding The Bus+change My Classes In Middle School Because I Was Bullied So Bad For "Being Ugly"
Iron Eddy 4 years ago
I agree. You were never ugly. You were an absolutely cute child and now a beautiful woman!!! Hugs
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Janine B. 4 years ago
Poor girl. There's absolutely nothing wrong with her. Kids can be assholes.
BorPand8 4 years ago
Her school was terrible. Kids aren't automatically assholes. Their elders teach them that and then let them get away with doing it.
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Claire Armstrong 4 years ago
Wow! This just makes me feel so sad! I can't stand bullying in any way but when it gets to THAT point - not riding the school bus and having to change classes! That's just wrong! I'd love to see your tormentors faces now! Arseholes! Why can't all parents instil decency in their kids so that, hopefully, they won't become bullies!
pusheen buttercup 4 years ago
Wow that's so mean. They were wrong then. You looked pretty and look amazing now :)
Donna Price 4 years ago
Why do kids. Have to so mean and cruel. To other kids. I feel so bad for her.
Victoria Pitt 4 years ago
kids are so messed up. you were never ugly and omg your eyes are gorgeous.
sharron lynn parsons 4 years ago
Good heavens, those morons were so wrong, however, you have grown into your own beauty !!!
Savs Dreams 4 years ago
You've always been beautiful. Those other people are ugly on the inside
Vytas Navickas 4 years ago
you had some seriously half blind a@##$#$les riding that bus with you....
eezycheezes101 4 years ago
She was so pretty in middle school and I would kill to have eyes like hers! I've got to admit, she's even more pretty now, and I'm glad the bullying stopped!!
Wendy J Shores 4 years ago
Kids in middle school can be such d***s... You were pretty then and blossomed into beautiful!
GrumpyCat7 4 years ago (edited)
Gorgeous...would love to see THEIR before and after pics! Bet they wouldn't even come close. 😊
Tala Koala 4 years ago
You were way better as a tween, now you’re just a dog, whereas as a tween you had some potential. Eyeliner skills and closing your mouth doesn’t equal pretty, lol.
Mo Poppins 4 years ago
I love how she does her makeup--she really understands her face. Perfect hair color for her skin tone, as well. Adorable. <3
Jo Firth 4 years ago
Geez kids are tough on each other. I certainly don't recall this happening during my time at school in the mid-70s in Australia. Judgement is out of control these days - assume it is a result of the proliferation of social media platforms where photoshopping is the norm ... makes me sad to think that so many people these days feel so much pressure to conform to some unrealistic form of "beauty".
Lisa Chambers 4 years ago
You were bullied because someone didnt teach their children better manners and how to cope with who they are and what they looked like. It was never about you.
Julia Daxenbichler 4 years ago
Ah yes, the designated ugly kid that's not even ugly. My twin sister and I were bullied for being "ugly" and "fat" too. (Never been overweight, just asshole children doing their thing)
Ashley Wright 4 years ago
You were hardly ugly. Bullies are so insecure. You looked cute then, beautiful now
Wendy Simmons 4 years ago
I think you must have been unlucky with the people around you as you could not be called ugly before either! Some people are just born mean and others are sheep who follow what the mean ones start. You were always pretty and now you are beautiful!
Emyo Jennifer Nakayama 4 years ago
You are beautiful. And as the person below noted, you were never ugly. I understand, because I had the same experience. Looking at the old pics now I can see myself more realistically, if you know what I mean. I love your hair color now! It fits so well with your eyes and skin tone.
Johanne Trudeau 4 years ago
You were never ugly. I hope you go to your high school reunion and look down your nose that those bullies!!! You look great and I bet the person under the skin was a fantastic person and still is...
COL(R) Mike T Panda 4 years ago
Too bad you weren't smiling in the last pic, you have a great smile. And I understand about being bullied, luckily I didn't have to stop taking the bus and change classes - but I did move, which definitely changed my outlook on life
Tina Bobina 4 years ago
How is that ugly??! to be 100% honest, I actually thinks she looks better before and without makeup.
#36
3 Years With A Lot Of Time In The Gym And Taking Care Of My Skin
#37
Me, Early 20’s Looking Troll Man To More Normal Looking Dude In His 30’s
#38
15 To 23. No Makeup For A Better Comparison
#39
Nearly Two Years Of Hard Work And Dedication. I Won’t Ever Stop!
#40
My One Regret Is Losing The Hat
#41
7 Years Apart
#42
15 → 26, From Strange Genderbender To Recognizable As A Woman
#43
18 vs. 23 Just A Late Bloomer I Guess
#44
18 To 24
#45
21 vs. 29.. Losing 100lbs Has Definitely Helped!
#46
One Year Transformation. 23 To 23 (Almost 24 Hahaha). What A Gym Membership, Self Love And A Skincare Routine Can Do For You
#47
Grew Into My Face A Little(19 vs. 26)
#48
18 To 23. Puberty Hit Me Like A God Damn Freight Train.
#49
11 To 21. Wear Your Sunblock, Folks
Add New Image
What do you think ?
Biljana Malesevic 4 years ago (edited)
I don't like the word "ugly" in this context at all. These people were never ugly. Some of them were somewhat overweight, some had acne (didn't we all, at some point?), some had glasses and now have contacts, some just learned to use make up and fixed hairstyle... Are overweight people, people with freckles and people with glasses ugly? Are we automatically beautiful if we put ton of make up or lose like 10 lbs? While I think people absolutely should make changes on their appearance if it makes them feel good, I simply don't how this was put.
MiniMaus 4 years ago
I never got over the bullying as I was an ugly kid. Bad clothes, bad haircut, acne. Even now that I've changed I still have confidence issues. Don't bully, people. It can affect someone their entire life. I'm 62 now.
Felix Feline 4 years ago
Same. Even a teacher commented that I was awfully ugly. I'm told that I am now quite good-looking, even model good-looking, but I look in the mirror and I don't see that at all. All is see is the child everyone called ugly looking back at me.
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Mimi777 4 years ago
I was an ugly duckling growing up. I was bullied for having a big nose. I was called so many different names from Pinnochio to Big Bird. I had numerous people make comments like “if you didn’t have a big nose u would be so pretty” or “I would date her if she didn’t have a big nose.” It was all throughout my childhood and partially into adulthood. I had very low self esteem. I had depression. I had no confidence. I saved up money from age 16 to 24 to get my nose and chin done. And it changed everything for me. It raised my confidence and self esteem tremendously. I’m finally happy with how I look. I’m 28 now btw.
GenXandEarnedItAll 4 years ago
I was at a bar one night and a guy I went to high school with came up to me and said, "Hi." I had hair down to waist. He said, "Wow! You remind me if that fairy tale...I can't think of it." I said, "Rapunzle?" He said, "No. The Ugly Duckling! You were so ugly in high school but you are HOT now!" I almost punched him. I told the bartender he was taking care of my bill and I ordered the most expensive drinks I could think of. Top shelf all the way!
Anna Neemus 4 years ago
I just hate how people who weren't ugly posted. Being overweight or having a bad haircut doesn't make you ugly. I don't get some of these.
JamezyJamez 4 years ago
Most of these before pictures are of 12 year olds! They're not trying to be sexy. Their parents are still buying their clothes. They could care less about fashion or attracting a mate. I work at a school for kids aged 12-18. They always start out awkward and stocky and then they hit growth spurts and puberty and then they start thinking about girlfriends and boyfriends and clothes, change their hairstyle, etc. And the ones who come back and visit after graduating and heading to college have gone even further in defining their image and self. It's great and I'm happy for them. But please don't call a 12 or 14 year old ugly, nobody peaks at 12, they're kids, they're not even aware of the mountain to summit.
Ivana 4 years ago
I saw some of my childhood photos and realized I peaked at 5. I was so damn adorable in them overalls holding my "My Little Ponies" birthday gifts. I am still attractive, but I will never reach that level of cuteness again. My husband was an 'ugly duckling' growing up. Then he hit 17 and suddenly women were interested and he thought they were just messing with him. Took him years to feel confident. Kids may look a little awkward growing up but it doesn't make them ugly and it is important to teach them positive body image because it strongly impacts your confidence as an adult. Confident people are often more successful so let them grow into their own, teach them healthy habits, and do your best to make them feel comfortable in their own skin.
Katherine Boag 4 years ago
I also feel bad for people who post 'before' pics when they were 11 or 12. You weren't 'ugly', you were a CHILD.
Oskar vanZandt 4 years ago (edited)
I think the majority of people in this post felt like ugly ducklings because they weren't... just pre-pubescent. Do wish that people in general wouldn't feel under pressure to conform... the 'abs thing' really gets to me. Men without washboard abs are perfectly fine, as are women without sylph-like frames. (PS primary school and high school sucked for most "non-conformist" folks- kids are *rseholes).
Kim Bush 4 years ago
Everyone is taking the "ugly" duckling reference so literally. You do realize that phrase was taken from literature, right? The ugly ducklings turning into beautiful swans, that is the point of the whole story. Why be surprised at the term still being used when it is decades old and engrained in our psyche.
Julie BT 120 4 years ago
People care way too much about what they look like, don't forget to work on the inside too
Sunny Topia 2 years ago
These peeps were being mentally abused by those people who are jealous of their looks. They are actually already beautiful or handsome... -_- those bullies... ughhh...
Viv Hart 4 years ago
I was a happy teen, missed 3 years of schooling due to operations post-polio, joined a class of 14 y.o.'s at age 17, wearing a back brace. Was never teased or bullied, we had a super crowd in our class, always up to mischief. Am still friends with at least 5 of them, including my secret hero, who now knows it, 50 years later!
Another loser 4 years ago
im so happy for these people that they made it so that they are comfortable with their appearance!
Carol Taylor 4 years ago
they went from being ok teenagers to O.M.G. smouldering hot adults..so if you have/know any teenagers that don't think they are fitting the mold then please tell them, it WILL get better...just keep telling them it will get better..
sharron lynn parsons 4 years ago
This post was very interesting, it shows some young teens, that did change themselves for the better, positive attitudes, for positive improvement, teen years are very difficult for most, home life and school, can have an incredible impact, however, to see how many teens, simply need to grow and change in appearance !!!
Jaybird3939 4 years ago
It just goes to show, not everyone hits their peak in High School. I think a lot of kids bloom later, even after college. I hope some see this and realize HS is not the be all and end all of their lives.
Billy the kid 4 years ago
Its a shame that if you dont look gorgeous or if you wear braces or dont wear the top notch clothing you get bullied for that. Kids can be really cruel in school if you are not better than them. But you are the better one because your beauty is on the inside. Those that bully because they have the fashion clothes make up... are the ones that have no security. Take that away from them and what have they got? hmmm. My grandkids 4 + 10 go kick boxing. My daughter was bullied at school as well as myself so we made sure that they know how to defend themselves. I recommend this for those that get bullied.
Steve Cruz 4 years ago
Instead of "Ugly Duckling," perhaps "IT GETS BETTER." Most people were awkward teens.
Rosemari Ferreira Gebbran 4 years ago
I mean, teenage have teenagers face, round nose, round cheeks, that's that. They're no ugly before, they just change. In a new 10 years picture they will look even more different. No ugly before, no ugly after.
Camil Gagnon 4 years ago
I used to bee a cute kid, but puberty wrecked my body. I developped skin problems, including severe acne and dermatitis. I also had chronic digestive and respiratory issues. So going through highschool was hell and I was basically treated like I was a disabled leper. I'm 38 now and I've never been sicker. Some people never bloom.
Cecilia Bivald 4 years ago
“We judge you for how you look so it is a good thing you changed! Now we can wonder in how you conform to current beauty ideals whilst thinking about how ugly you looked before” Loosely translated
Stannous Flouride 4 years ago
A lot of folks commenting here seem to be unfamiliar with Hans Christian Andersen's tale "The Ugly Duckling." The odd-looking young bird is raised among ducks and looks different so is picked on and rejected by the other ducklings but in the end it is discovered that he looked different because he's a majestic swan. It's not about the duckling being ugly, it's about how it's wrong to bully someone based on the differences or looks and how it feels for that being. And in the end it's about how we're all capable of change. You're right, most of these kids were not ugly, just geeky and undeveloped. But don't forget how little it takes for a vicious pack of teenagers to turn on anyone who is different. What changes most in all of these pictures is the person's self-confidence.
Gabriela Karabinosova 4 years ago
Sooo finding style and taking care of yourself is the hidden secret? :D
Jonathan Armstrong 4 years ago
Sorry for taking us away from 69 cments, but I want to see how many downvotes one post can get. That's right, I want to be downvoted. Let's get it done!
Pearl_TheRapperLOL 4 years ago
Whoever went through and decided to dislike some of the positive things, I don't know what to say to such an idiot.
Steven Campbell 4 years ago
To the people who look the same as they did as a kid, especially if you still have a thick waist and glasses, your hot! To all those who did change for "the better", remember how you started!
Z. O. E. 4 years ago
People don't realize that age and maturity happens throughout life (if you allow it) and part of that means your face will change. Some, people have lost weight and that's ALL YOU! Great job on that! But the changes our bodies make throughout life is going to happen and it's always up to us if it will be a better loom or worse!
23AClark 4 years ago
I'm happy for all of you. You've achieved what you wanted, and you look wonderful. However, I didn't see you as "ugly" before. Most if you were going through puberty, and it's not always an easy thing to go through. It takes time to mature physically and for most, mentally and emotionally as well. It's a trying time. But eventually you achieve what you wanted, to be stunning. Some may want a little extra help, but all in all, you look wonderful.
Emy Loves 4 years ago
In all honesty, I think every human being is beautiful because I have the ability to see the whole person and not just their "shell". If their insides need help though, that is ALL that truly matters. I know so many women who I think are so pretty but they are miserable on the inside. Looks are overrated. There will be those who can honestly say these before pictures were that of an ugly duckling (terrible word!) AND the after is an ugly duckling as well. Why? Because beauty is an opinion. If more people would realize that only THEIR opinion of themselves is all that really matters, then crud like this would never be an issue for anyone. If you don't realize your own worth, please learn it. Stop placing your value on what's on the outside, and instead, what is on the inside. (of yourselves and others) And if you feel the need to post pics, then be prepared for the negative reviews because like I already stated, beauty is subjective.
Brett Connor 4 years ago
The high school years, hormones, etc.. are a Mind F for sure. And I'm sure everyone here has the story of one of those Class re-unions when so and so showed up and they were (not the same) ha ha! many kids keep growing even after the high school years.
yxkb 4 years ago
Orthodontists - some these pictures are good example why their work is important. Big beautiful smile is something that makes every person more beautiful.
Paula Hannon 4 years ago
Okay being chubby as a kid does not make you ugly and who amongst us didn't have to grow out of an awkward stage, what an asinine list.
Leslie Parker 4 years ago
Wow. Talk about reinforcing the “ Pretty vs Ugly “ BS. And then in the same list of Bored Panda articles grouped together you headline some statements that represent people’s feelings of unfairness “ Pretty people have an easier life”. No small wonder that social media is filled to the brim with “ augmented “ photos of people who believe that’s what others expect. Reality, Bored Panda, is that there is a “ myth “ of what we are trained to believe is beautiful, and then what the real truth is: All of life is is wonderfully beautiful.
Daria Z 4 years ago
I'm really happy for them, all of them look awesome! 😍 I was an ugly duckling too and grew up into a pretty... ugly duck 🙈
Rosie Hamilton 4 years ago
Ducks are lovely! If that is your photo you are perfectly fine. We are all too hard on ourselves.
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no_name 4 years ago
Oh how I love this objectification that sometimes appears here. First "pretty" people turning "ugly", then "ugly" people turning "pretty". Shall we not? There're personality traits which are more important than this. And what gives us right to judge anyone just because they started or stopped caring about how they look? Each business is their own. I was bullied when i was younger solely because of my looks and I never got over it. And I despise people who put this crap before everything else. They're no better than all those bullies and on certain level they're even worse.
Jim Ellington 4 years ago
Why do so many of these transformations involve losing weight? I thought curvy was considered beautiful nowadays.
Jim Ellington 4 years ago
And so many of the females "improved" their look by wearing makeup. What message does that send to young girls?
Load More Replies... thepinkrobot 4 years ago
A lot of these are pretty much just fatphobia in action. "Ugly"? No. Some were fat and now they're not, that doesn't reduce or add attraction except to a society that values thinner bodies
Biljana Malesevic 4 years ago (edited)
I don't like the word "ugly" in this context at all. These people were never ugly. Some of them were somewhat overweight, some had acne (didn't we all, at some point?), some had glasses and now have contacts, some just learned to use make up and fixed hairstyle... Are overweight people, people with freckles and people with glasses ugly? Are we automatically beautiful if we put ton of make up or lose like 10 lbs? While I think people absolutely should make changes on their appearance if it makes them feel good, I simply don't how this was put.
MiniMaus 4 years ago
I never got over the bullying as I was an ugly kid. Bad clothes, bad haircut, acne. Even now that I've changed I still have confidence issues. Don't bully, people. It can affect someone their entire life. I'm 62 now.
Felix Feline 4 years ago
Same. Even a teacher commented that I was awfully ugly. I'm told that I am now quite good-looking, even model good-looking, but I look in the mirror and I don't see that at all. All is see is the child everyone called ugly looking back at me.
Load More Replies... Mimi777 4 years ago
I was an ugly duckling growing up. I was bullied for having a big nose. I was called so many different names from Pinnochio to Big Bird. I had numerous people make comments like “if you didn’t have a big nose u would be so pretty” or “I would date her if she didn’t have a big nose.” It was all throughout my childhood and partially into adulthood. I had very low self esteem. I had depression. I had no confidence. I saved up money from age 16 to 24 to get my nose and chin done. And it changed everything for me. It raised my confidence and self esteem tremendously. I’m finally happy with how I look. I’m 28 now btw.
GenXandEarnedItAll 4 years ago
I was at a bar one night and a guy I went to high school with came up to me and said, "Hi." I had hair down to waist. He said, "Wow! You remind me if that fairy tale...I can't think of it." I said, "Rapunzle?" He said, "No. The Ugly Duckling! You were so ugly in high school but you are HOT now!" I almost punched him. I told the bartender he was taking care of my bill and I ordered the most expensive drinks I could think of. Top shelf all the way!
Anna Neemus 4 years ago
I just hate how people who weren't ugly posted. Being overweight or having a bad haircut doesn't make you ugly. I don't get some of these.
JamezyJamez 4 years ago
Most of these before pictures are of 12 year olds! They're not trying to be sexy. Their parents are still buying their clothes. They could care less about fashion or attracting a mate. I work at a school for kids aged 12-18. They always start out awkward and stocky and then they hit growth spurts and puberty and then they start thinking about girlfriends and boyfriends and clothes, change their hairstyle, etc. And the ones who come back and visit after graduating and heading to college have gone even further in defining their image and self. It's great and I'm happy for them. But please don't call a 12 or 14 year old ugly, nobody peaks at 12, they're kids, they're not even aware of the mountain to summit.
Ivana 4 years ago
I saw some of my childhood photos and realized I peaked at 5. I was so damn adorable in them overalls holding my "My Little Ponies" birthday gifts. I am still attractive, but I will never reach that level of cuteness again. My husband was an 'ugly duckling' growing up. Then he hit 17 and suddenly women were interested and he thought they were just messing with him. Took him years to feel confident. Kids may look a little awkward growing up but it doesn't make them ugly and it is important to teach them positive body image because it strongly impacts your confidence as an adult. Confident people are often more successful so let them grow into their own, teach them healthy habits, and do your best to make them feel comfortable in their own skin.
Katherine Boag 4 years ago
I also feel bad for people who post 'before' pics when they were 11 or 12. You weren't 'ugly', you were a CHILD.
Oskar vanZandt 4 years ago (edited)
I think the majority of people in this post felt like ugly ducklings because they weren't... just pre-pubescent. Do wish that people in general wouldn't feel under pressure to conform... the 'abs thing' really gets to me. Men without washboard abs are perfectly fine, as are women without sylph-like frames. (PS primary school and high school sucked for most "non-conformist" folks- kids are *rseholes).
Kim Bush 4 years ago
Everyone is taking the "ugly" duckling reference so literally. You do realize that phrase was taken from literature, right? The ugly ducklings turning into beautiful swans, that is the point of the whole story. Why be surprised at the term still being used when it is decades old and engrained in our psyche.
Julie BT 120 4 years ago
People care way too much about what they look like, don't forget to work on the inside too
Sunny Topia 2 years ago
These peeps were being mentally abused by those people who are jealous of their looks. They are actually already beautiful or handsome... -_- those bullies... ughhh...
Viv Hart 4 years ago
I was a happy teen, missed 3 years of schooling due to operations post-polio, joined a class of 14 y.o.'s at age 17, wearing a back brace. Was never teased or bullied, we had a super crowd in our class, always up to mischief. Am still friends with at least 5 of them, including my secret hero, who now knows it, 50 years later!
Another loser 4 years ago
im so happy for these people that they made it so that they are comfortable with their appearance!
Carol Taylor 4 years ago
they went from being ok teenagers to O.M.G. smouldering hot adults..so if you have/know any teenagers that don't think they are fitting the mold then please tell them, it WILL get better...just keep telling them it will get better..
sharron lynn parsons 4 years ago
This post was very interesting, it shows some young teens, that did change themselves for the better, positive attitudes, for positive improvement, teen years are very difficult for most, home life and school, can have an incredible impact, however, to see how many teens, simply need to grow and change in appearance !!!
Jaybird3939 4 years ago
It just goes to show, not everyone hits their peak in High School. I think a lot of kids bloom later, even after college. I hope some see this and realize HS is not the be all and end all of their lives.
Billy the kid 4 years ago
Its a shame that if you dont look gorgeous or if you wear braces or dont wear the top notch clothing you get bullied for that. Kids can be really cruel in school if you are not better than them. But you are the better one because your beauty is on the inside. Those that bully because they have the fashion clothes make up... are the ones that have no security. Take that away from them and what have they got? hmmm. My grandkids 4 + 10 go kick boxing. My daughter was bullied at school as well as myself so we made sure that they know how to defend themselves. I recommend this for those that get bullied.
Steve Cruz 4 years ago
Instead of "Ugly Duckling," perhaps "IT GETS BETTER." Most people were awkward teens.
Rosemari Ferreira Gebbran 4 years ago
I mean, teenage have teenagers face, round nose, round cheeks, that's that. They're no ugly before, they just change. In a new 10 years picture they will look even more different. No ugly before, no ugly after.
Camil Gagnon 4 years ago
I used to bee a cute kid, but puberty wrecked my body. I developped skin problems, including severe acne and dermatitis. I also had chronic digestive and respiratory issues. So going through highschool was hell and I was basically treated like I was a disabled leper. I'm 38 now and I've never been sicker. Some people never bloom.
Cecilia Bivald 4 years ago
“We judge you for how you look so it is a good thing you changed! Now we can wonder in how you conform to current beauty ideals whilst thinking about how ugly you looked before” Loosely translated
Stannous Flouride 4 years ago
A lot of folks commenting here seem to be unfamiliar with Hans Christian Andersen's tale "The Ugly Duckling." The odd-looking young bird is raised among ducks and looks different so is picked on and rejected by the other ducklings but in the end it is discovered that he looked different because he's a majestic swan. It's not about the duckling being ugly, it's about how it's wrong to bully someone based on the differences or looks and how it feels for that being. And in the end it's about how we're all capable of change. You're right, most of these kids were not ugly, just geeky and undeveloped. But don't forget how little it takes for a vicious pack of teenagers to turn on anyone who is different. What changes most in all of these pictures is the person's self-confidence.
Gabriela Karabinosova 4 years ago
Sooo finding style and taking care of yourself is the hidden secret? :D
Jonathan Armstrong 4 years ago
Sorry for taking us away from 69 cments, but I want to see how many downvotes one post can get. That's right, I want to be downvoted. Let's get it done!
Pearl_TheRapperLOL 4 years ago
Whoever went through and decided to dislike some of the positive things, I don't know what to say to such an idiot.
Steven Campbell 4 years ago
To the people who look the same as they did as a kid, especially if you still have a thick waist and glasses, your hot! To all those who did change for "the better", remember how you started!
Z. O. E. 4 years ago
People don't realize that age and maturity happens throughout life (if you allow it) and part of that means your face will change. Some, people have lost weight and that's ALL YOU! Great job on that! But the changes our bodies make throughout life is going to happen and it's always up to us if it will be a better loom or worse!
23AClark 4 years ago
I'm happy for all of you. You've achieved what you wanted, and you look wonderful. However, I didn't see you as "ugly" before. Most if you were going through puberty, and it's not always an easy thing to go through. It takes time to mature physically and for most, mentally and emotionally as well. It's a trying time. But eventually you achieve what you wanted, to be stunning. Some may want a little extra help, but all in all, you look wonderful.
Emy Loves 4 years ago
In all honesty, I think every human being is beautiful because I have the ability to see the whole person and not just their "shell". If their insides need help though, that is ALL that truly matters. I know so many women who I think are so pretty but they are miserable on the inside. Looks are overrated. There will be those who can honestly say these before pictures were that of an ugly duckling (terrible word!) AND the after is an ugly duckling as well. Why? Because beauty is an opinion. If more people would realize that only THEIR opinion of themselves is all that really matters, then crud like this would never be an issue for anyone. If you don't realize your own worth, please learn it. Stop placing your value on what's on the outside, and instead, what is on the inside. (of yourselves and others) And if you feel the need to post pics, then be prepared for the negative reviews because like I already stated, beauty is subjective.
Brett Connor 4 years ago
The high school years, hormones, etc.. are a Mind F for sure. And I'm sure everyone here has the story of one of those Class re-unions when so and so showed up and they were (not the same) ha ha! many kids keep growing even after the high school years.
yxkb 4 years ago
Orthodontists - some these pictures are good example why their work is important. Big beautiful smile is something that makes every person more beautiful.
Paula Hannon 4 years ago
Okay being chubby as a kid does not make you ugly and who amongst us didn't have to grow out of an awkward stage, what an asinine list.
Leslie Parker 4 years ago
Wow. Talk about reinforcing the “ Pretty vs Ugly “ BS. And then in the same list of Bored Panda articles grouped together you headline some statements that represent people’s feelings of unfairness “ Pretty people have an easier life”. No small wonder that social media is filled to the brim with “ augmented “ photos of people who believe that’s what others expect. Reality, Bored Panda, is that there is a “ myth “ of what we are trained to believe is beautiful, and then what the real truth is: All of life is is wonderfully beautiful.
Daria Z 4 years ago
I'm really happy for them, all of them look awesome! 😍 I was an ugly duckling too and grew up into a pretty... ugly duck 🙈
Rosie Hamilton 4 years ago
Ducks are lovely! If that is your photo you are perfectly fine. We are all too hard on ourselves.
Load More Replies... no_name 4 years ago
Oh how I love this objectification that sometimes appears here. First "pretty" people turning "ugly", then "ugly" people turning "pretty". Shall we not? There're personality traits which are more important than this. And what gives us right to judge anyone just because they started or stopped caring about how they look? Each business is their own. I was bullied when i was younger solely because of my looks and I never got over it. And I despise people who put this crap before everything else. They're no better than all those bullies and on certain level they're even worse.
Jim Ellington 4 years ago
Why do so many of these transformations involve losing weight? I thought curvy was considered beautiful nowadays.
Jim Ellington 4 years ago
And so many of the females "improved" their look by wearing makeup. What message does that send to young girls?
Load More Replies... thepinkrobot 4 years ago
A lot of these are pretty much just fatphobia in action. "Ugly"? No. Some were fat and now they're not, that doesn't reduce or add attraction except to a society that values thinner bodies
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