Hey Hot Stuff

(Photo by Vladimir Floyd/thinkstock)

As dancers, we’re used to getting our sweat on in a full face of makeup—it’s part of being a performer. But when it comes to the studio, makeup may not be our best friend.

Your pores open up when you sweat, making it easier for heavy foundation to get in and clog them. Clogged pores cause breakouts, and no one wants that. But you don’t have to stop wearing makeup to class altogether. With a few simple steps, you can transition your face from school- to sweat-ready in a flash.

1. Use a face wipe to remove your foundation and blush, being careful not to smudge your eye makeup. While sweating in mascara and eye shadow isn’t ideal, the makeup is unlikely to clog your pores.
2. Smooth a tinted moisturizer over your face to even out any discoloring. It’s thinner than foundation, so it allows your pores to breath.
3. Skip blush. A couple rounds of petit allégro and you’ll have that natural flush working for you!
4. Use a light gloss on your lips. The extra touch of shimmer will make you feel like you’re wearing more makeup than you really are.

Be sure to wash your face ASAP after class. It’s the perfect time for exfoliation, since your pores are already open. That also means your skin is more sensitive, however, so use a gentle cleanser, then moisturize.