Academy Hair & Makeup
Why do dancers need makeup?
We suggest that dancers wear a bit of makeup for both Academy pictures and the recital. The bright lights in both can make dancers look pale and washed out without it, so wearing even just a bit of makeup makes sure that they will look like themselves in these memories!
How much makeup should my dancer wear?
- This is up to the dancer and family, and also dependent on the dancer’s age. The younger they are, the less they need.
- Preschool dancers will benefit from a dusting of translucent powder to cut down on shine, a quick swipe of blush to add color, and a bit of lip gloss to show off their smile.
- School-age dancers can wear a lightweight foundation and mascara.
- Tween and teen dancers can do a “full face” of makeup, although it should still look natural.
Do we need specific colors of makeup?
- There are no specific colors, but we would recommend that foundation or powder be one shade darker than what would be worn out in natural sunlight. Make sure to blend well!
- Stay away from very bold colors in eyeshadow, blush or lipstick. Eyeshadow should be natural/neutral (beiges to browns), and berry-toned blushes and lip products complement most skin tones.
- Do NOT use any lotions or makeup products that contain glitter (sparkly eyeshadow is fine). Glitter on the skin or in hair looks like acne or dandruff!
How should my dancer wear their hair?
- For class photos, hair can be worn however the dancer prefers EXCEPT for ballet pictures, which require a bun (see below). Hair does look best for pictures when it is pulled out of the face.
- Some costumes come with hairpieces. Assume that your dancer will be wearing it unless you have been told otherwise by the teacher.
- Please ONLY use hair pieces that came with the costume. If one didn’t come with the costume, then please stick to hair-colored hair elastics and clips.
- Refrain from color streaking, feathers, glitter, or other accessories in hair. It will appear distracting in the photos.
HOW TO DO A BALLET BUN:
Until we can make another one – here are the best videos we could find (with a few small additions):
- Secure the initial ponytail with at least 2 rubber bands
- If using a bun builder, use a stretchy thick rubber band and wrap it around the bun builder at least 2 times! This will make your bun WAY more secure.
- Use hair pins rather than bobby pins — they are “wider” and will hold more hair in place.
- Final STEP! – Use a hairnet over the entire bun (same color as your child’s hair) and secure with hair-colored hair pins or bobby pins.
Bun builders, hair nets and other accessories are available for your convenience at The Dancer’s Closet, our studio store. These are available in our online store for easy preorder and pickup on or before picture day!