(by Amanda Grad, Mrs. U.S.A. Globe 2011)
It’s a secret that only the pageant savvy know: There is a big difference between
normal daily cosmetic routines and how to prepare for on stage. Distance,
lighting, and angles all play a big role in how you will look during the
competition. But not to worry, the Mrs. Globe Investigatory Team has three great
tips to help you select the stage foundation you need for a winning look.
Step 1: Pick the right shade: When visiting a cosmetic counter at your local
department store, the make-up artist will always pull a color that matches the
skin tone of your neck. But a cosmetic counter is not a pageant stage, and that
means a different set of rules.
For onstage beauty, your foundation needs to be one shade darker. Stage lighting
can wash you out, and though you may feel like it’s a bit much, a foundation that
is too light for the bright lights will make you appear pale. If the difference is too
drastic for your psyche, you can mix a couple of foundation shades together to
create the perfect look for you.
Pro-Tip: When choosing your final product, go with a foundation that has
warmer undertones as stage lighting tends to be cooler in tone. Also, selecting an
oil-free matte foundation will give you the best coverage.
Step 2: Accentuate and Dimension: The main purpose of contouring and
highlighting is to emphasize your bone structure and add dimension to your face
in the right areas. The primary areas that you want to contour are
your cheekbones, nose, jawline and forehead. To find the correct areas for the
contour versus the highlight, google “face contouring image”, or download a face
app that you can carry with you all the time.
Pro-Tip: Make sure you have a good variety of contouring brushes. These
brushes will typically be angled for the best application.
Step 3: Practice Practice Practice: The old saying “practice makes perfect”
could not be more of the truth. Playing with the foundations, contouring,
and highlighting ahead of time will not only make you more confident, but it will
empower you to achieve the look you are going for on the day of competition.
If you feel you need extra help, visit your local department store, and have one of
the professionals show you the application process. Or visit YouTube and do it in
the privacy of your own home.
Pro Tip: Always use a setting powder or a setting spray. This will help keep your
makeup looking fresh all the way to your crown moment.