How to Apply Ballroom Make-Up

Making up for a ballroom dance competition is quite similar to making up for other performances- but makeup for dance must hold up to sweat. Stage lighting can "erase" your facial features and distort your complexion- you use makeup to make your features more visible. You may also use makeup to complete your costume- your makeup look should coordinate with your costume.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• waterproof/sports/stage makeup
• makeup remover
• primer (optional)
• makeup brushes and applicators

1. Figure out your base color- you will want a foundation and face powder color that matches your complexion exactly, and colors that complement your skin's undertones. If you don't have much experience with makeup, you can be matched at a cosmetics counter. You may not be able to use stage makeup as a base if you don't match the colors offered exactly, as stage makeup often comes in limited shades, and blending colors requires experience. But you can often find a long-lasting base at many department or cosmetics stores.

2. Determine which look is best for the number and costume. Are you the ingenue or fiery temptress? Is your costume meant to evoke a flapper or a disco queen? Mile-long lashes and rosy cheeks send a very different message than smoky eyelids and crimson lips. Fashion magazines, costume shops and movies can inspire you.

3. Tweak the look according to your complexion- if pink makes you look washed out, a peach or golden shade may bring out your best features, and vice versa. These needs will become known during a test run of your look. Apply all the makeup as you plan to wear it for the number, and wear it for at least two hours. Exercise or practice in the makeup if you can, and take photos- preferably under stage lighting- you want to see how the makeup itself holds up, and how the colors look on you. Once you have a look you like, remove the makeup and apply a light moisturizer- good skin care is the best cosmetic.

Tips & Warnings

• Take notes on what works and what doesn't.
• If the makeup requires special removers, please don't skimp on them.
• Stage lighting can alter how colors are perceived- white can look blue, yellow can look white, and blue or purple often look black.
• Avoid sharing eye or lip makeup, or the brushes used for same- it can be unhygienic.
• If you have allergies, read labels carefully.

Resources

• Theatrical Makeup Supplies
• Stage Makeup Tips