high lift hair color before and after

DANCE MAKEUP

There’s nothing quite like watching your child light up the stage at an eisteddfod or dance concert. Hair and makeup play just as big a role as the costume, ensuring each dancer looks their best under the stage lights.

For many parents—and even dancers applying their own makeup—creating the perfect stage look can feel overwhelming, especially if makeup isn’t your strong suit.

To help, we’ve put together some essential tips for achieving dance makeup that truly stands out.

First, let’s take a look at a before-and-after photo of the lovely Isabella. Her makeup highlights her features, making them pop beautifully on stage!

Great makeup starts with the right tools! Investing in a good-quality yet affordable brush set can make all the difference in achieving a polished look. Priceline offers budget-friendly options, including Manicare and Models Prefer brushes. For a reliable choice, Real Techniques brushes are among my personal favorites!

Step 1 – Primer

Dancers often wear their makeup for an entire day, so choosing the right products to enhance longevity is essential. Primer plays a crucial role in keeping foundation in place and creating a smooth base for application.

One of my favorite primers is the Laura Mercier Primer, available at David Jones, but if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Face of Australia Primer from Priceline is a great choice for under $12.

For teenagers with oily skin, a mattifying primer helps control shine, especially in the T-zone. I highly recommend the Make Up For Ever Step 1 Mattifying Primer for this.

Don’t forget to prep your lips! Apply a nourishing lip balm like Lanolips or Paw Paw Ointment to keep them soft. Regularly exfoliating with a toothbrush is a simple trick to remove dead skin and keep your lips smooth.

Step 2 – Eyes

I always start with the eyes first, especially for stage makeup, as eyeshadow fallout can get messy. Doing this before foundation allows for easy cleanup and gives the primer more time to settle into the skin.

Prepping the Eyes

  • Apply your foundation over the eyelid and under the eyes to create an even base.
  • Use an eye primer to ensure eyeshadow adheres properly and stays in place. This also prevents smudging and creasing throughout the day.
    • Top picks: Too Faced Shadow Insurance (Mecca Maxima) or Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion.
    • Budget-friendly option: Face of Australia Eye Primer (Priceline, under $9).
  • If you don’t have an eye primer, concealer can work as an alternative.

Eyeshadow Application

  • Set the base – Apply a nude eyeshadow over the entire lid.
  • Define the crease – With a small fluffy brush, blend a soft brown shade into the crease and down toward the lash line.
  • Deepen the outer lid – Layer a medium brown/taupe shade on the outer lid, blending well. Gradually build intensity by adding darker brown, then black, ensuring the black remains closest to the lash line. Use a clean blending brush to seamlessly blend the shades together.
  • Brighten the inner lid – Apply a shimmery gold or bronze shade to the inner lid and inner corners to open up the eyes.
  • Highlight the brow bone – Use a pearl shimmer shade just below the eyebrows.
  • Lower lash line – With an angled brush, apply lighter shades toward the inner corner and darker shades on the outer lash line for added dimension.

For a great dance-friendly eyeshadow palette, try the CHI CHI Nudes Palette (Target, under $23) or Models Prefer Nude Palettes (Priceline).

Finishing Touches

  • Clean up fallout using micellar water and cotton buds or a makeup wipe.
  • Line the eyes:
    • Apply gel or liquid eyeliner along the upper lash line.
    • Line the lower lash line, stopping just short of the outer corner, then extend it horizontally for a lifted effect. A pencil liner works well here.
  • Mascara: Coat the top and bottom lashes for added volume.
  • False lashes:
    • Trim strip lashes to fit your eye shape.
    • Apply lash glue and wait about 20 seconds until tacky before placing them on the lid.
    • To create a lifted effect, position the outer corner slightly above the lash line.
    • Press the false lashes into your natural lashes using tweezers or fingers.

For stage-perfect lashes, I recommend Modelrock’s Pick and Mix lashes—affordable at under $2 per pair. Styles 212, 259, and 236 are great for stage performances.


Step 3 – Base

With the eyes complete and the skin prepped, it’s time to perfect the base.

Foundation

  • Use a buffing brush to blend a waterproof foundation into the skin.
  • For stage makeup, choose a shade one to two shades darker than your natural skin tone to ensure your features stand out under bright lights.
  • I used the Atelier Paris Waterproof Foundation on Isabella, but a great alternative is Revlon ColorStay Foundation.
  • Investing in a high-quality foundation is worthwhile, as it lasts longer and eliminates the need for frequent touch-ups.

(For local dance mums and students, I offer color-matching if you’re interested in ordering Atelier Paris foundations.)

Concealer

  • Apply concealer in a V shape under the eyes, down the nose bridge, and on the center of the forehead and chin for a brightened, even complexion.
  • I used MAC Pro Longwear Concealer, but Maybelline offers great budget-friendly options as well.

Blending is key—use a smaller buffing brush or a damp beauty sponge for a seamless finish.

Step 4 – Contour, Blush & Highlight

Once your base is perfectly blended, set everything in place with a translucent powder. A colorless powder is best to avoid altering the foundation shade. I recommend Ben Nye Translucent Powder, available from Scotty’s.

Contour

  • Using a contour powder, apply a line just below the cheekbones and blend upwards (making a “fish face” helps find the right placement).
  • Blend contour along the temples, jawline, and sides of the nose for added definition.
  • I used the Anastasia Contour Palette, but a great budget alternative is Models Prefer Contour Powder from Priceline for just $10.

Blush

  • Use a fluffy brush to apply a rosy pink blush to the cheekbones for a natural flush.
  • On Isabella, I used NARS Deep Throat, but any soft pink blush works well.

Highlight

  • Apply a highlighter to the tops of the cheekbones for a radiant glow.
  • My favorite is The Balm Mary-Lou Manizer, available at David Jones and Sephora for under $30.
  • A great budget-friendly option is the Models Prefer Highlighter, available at Priceline for under $11.

Blending is key—make sure all the products transition smoothly for a flawless, stage-ready finish!

Step 5 – Brows & Lips

Brows

  • Fill in the eyebrows using a brow pencil or an eyeshadow that is one shade lighter than your natural brow color.
  • Apply with an angled brush for precision and blend well for a natural yet defined look.
  • Remember, eyebrows frame the eyes, so shaping them correctly enhances the overall makeup!

Lips

  • Outline the lips with a red lip liner to define the shape and prevent feathering.
  • Fill in the lips with a long-lasting red lipstick for a bold, stage-ready look.
  • Revlon ColorStay is a fantastic option for a vibrant, long-wearing red.

Step 6 – Setting Spray

To lock in the makeup and ensure it lasts under the bright stage lights, finish with a makeup setting spray.

  • Skindinavia Setting Spray is my go-to for long-lasting wear.
  • For a budget-friendly option, the Models Prefer Setting Spray from Priceline (under $15) works well to keep everything in place.

A few spritzes will help prevent smudging, fading, or melting—so your dancer’s look stays flawless from the first step to the final bow!

Let the show begin!!!!! 

20+ CONCERT HAIRSTYLES CURATED FOR THE COOLEST GIRLS

Do you need some fresh ideas on how to style your hair before the next concert? Are you seeking a practical yet stylish look that truly reflects your unique personality? Look no further! We’ve curated a stunning collection of flawless concert hairstyles that redefine what it means to be cool. Get ready to rock out in style, because we’re thrilled to share these fabulous hair ideas with you!

Messy Braided Ponytail

Messy textures add an edgy flair to romantic braided styles, creating a perfect balance between these two extremes. If this style speaks to your personality, try recreating it before your upcoming concert or anytime you want to make a statement!

Bouncy Curls

For bouncy curls, the best method is to use no-heat foam rollers, especially if your hair isn’t naturally curly. If you do have naturally curly hair, enhance your curls by applying curly hair products like curl cream and hair gel, then dry your hair upside down using a diffuser for added volume and definition.

Half-Up Infinity Bubble Braid

The half-up infinity bubble braid combines classic bubble braids with infinity braids, creating a textured and distinctive style. You can opt for a single large infinity bubble braid or a half-up design. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to look stunning!

Pull-Through Braids To Space Buns

Combine two trending styles for a distinctive look by merging pull-through braids with space buns. This fun and playful hairstyle is sure to turn heads and earn you plenty of compliments!

Pigtail Bubble Braids

Pigtail bubble braids are a cute and easy hairstyle suitable for all hair types. For a more textured and elegant touch, consider using a curling iron to add waves or curls to your ponytails before styling them into bubble braids.

Braided Space Buns

Combine braids with space buns for a trendy and stylish concert look. For a bolder option, try a reversed version: place the space buns on top and let braids flow down from the nape of your neck. This unique style is sure to make a statement!

Messy Wavy Ponytail

Messy wavy ponytails exude glamour, sophistication, and effortless charm all at once. They’re ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a concert or a casual or formal event.

Loc Bun

If you have a braided hairstyle or locs, effortlessly create a stunning high or low messy bun to keep your braids or locs secure all day or night. Complete your concert look by pairing this hairstyle with stylish jewelry and bold makeup for an eye-catching ensemble.

Pigtail Pull-Through Braids

What’s better than a pull-through braid? Double (pigtail) pull-through braids, of course! This hairstyle looks stunning on long hair, especially when enhanced with highlights for added dimension.

Half-Up Messy Bun For Short Hair

Those with short hair can definitely pull off half-up buns in a variety of styles. For a concert, I recommend a half-up messy bun that exudes effortless and relaxed vibes, perfect for a fun night out!

Sleek Ponytail With Curled Bang

We’re obsessed with curly ponytails, especially when they’re paired with sleek textures and curled bangs. To make your ponytail even more unique, add a mini braid for a personalized touch!

Classic Bubble Braid

If you’re short on time and not in the mood to experiment, a classic bubble braid is a fantastic option. All you need are some elastics and a comb to create one beautiful bubble braid or several for a playful look!

Half-Up Double Bantu Knots

Nicole Scherzinger effortlessly rocks half-up double bantu knots with style and flair. Recreate this chic look for the next concert you attend to make a bold statement!

Sleek Bouncy Ponytail

Achieve a sleek look by applying hair gel and using a fine-tooth comb. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, then use a curling iron to create glamorous Hollywood waves. To do this, wrap sections of your hair around the curling iron in the same direction. After curling, finish by running a soft bristle brush through your hair for a polished finish.

Half-Up Pull-Through Braided Hairstyle

Pull-through braids have gained popularity recently and are made by pulling the ponytail under and up while securing each section with an elastic. You can choose to create a full pull-through braided style, a half-up version, or even mini pull-through braids for a playful touch.

Twisted Ponytail

A twisted ponytail is the perfect blend of a French bun and a classic ponytail, making it ideal for anyone seeking a sophisticated look with a touch of effortless charm. Are you ready to give it a try?

Wavy Fountain Ponytail

The fountain ponytail, often referred to as the fountain of youth, provides a mini facelift effect while enhancing your hair’s texture. Pair this stunning hairstyle with a dramatic makeup look, and you’ll be ready to rock any event!

Y2K Buns

Y2K hair never fails to impress! If you’re a fan of this trending style, give this edgy bun hairstyle a try. Two things are guaranteed: you’ll make a bold statement and leave everyone speechless at the concert!

High Rose Bun

If updos are your go-to concert look, you won’t want to miss this simple rose updo! Start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail, then use small sections of hair to wrap and form a rose bun, securing it with bobby pins for a stunning finish.

Sleek-Curly Fountain Ponytail

The standout feature of a glorious fountain ponytail is its mega volume. With sleek hair at the crown, this luxurious hairstyle becomes the perfect choice for your upcoming concert.

Mini Bubble Braids

A great rule of thumb for concert hairstyles is to choose one that keeps your hair away from your face. Mini bubble braids are a perfect example—they not only keep your hair secure but also look incredibly stylish and cute!

CONCLUSION

With these 20+ concert hairstyles, you’re ready to rock any stage, big or small. Remember, the best hairstyle is the one that makes you feel confident and fierce. So, let your hair down, let loose, and express yourself through your style.