Show Day Glam: It’s ALL in the DETAILS.
Welcome to Week 6 of the So You Think You Can Prep? Challenge! You’ve spent weeks fine-tuning your physique, nutrition, and posing. Now it’s time to add the finishing touches that will make you stand out under those stage lights. Your show day glam doesn’t just happen overnight — it’s the result of ongoing skin care, tanning preparation, and precise makeup application.
Judges assess your entire look, not just your physique. Glowing skin, flawless makeup, and even tanning can elevate your stage presence.
When you look great, you feel great. That extra layer of polish can help you step on stage with full confidence.
A clear, even complexion is essential for a high-scoring presentation. Proper care months and weeks before the show sets you up for a radiant glow on competition day.
In a competition scenario, judges consider overall appearance, including hair, makeup, and tan, along with your physique.
Healthy, glowing skin starts months before show day. You can’t slap on makeup or a tan and expect miracles if you haven’t laid the groundwork.
Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water and fueling your body with nutrient-rich foods. Staying hydrated from the inside out helps skin look plump and clear.
Use gentle scrubs or chemical exfoliants (like lactic or glycolic acid) 1–2 times per week to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.
Facials, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion can help address specific concerns like hyperpigmentation or dryness. Schedule these well in advance to allow for healing.
Exfoliate daily starting one week before your tan appointment, but avoid harsh treatments that might irritate skin right before the show.
Keep skin hydrated without using heavy creams that could interfere with tanning solutions.
Don’t try new products in peak week—last-minute reactions could lead to breakouts or sensitivities.
A quality tan highlights your muscle definition and ensures you look vibrant under bright stage lights.
Opt for a tanning company with competition experience to ensure the right tone for your federation. We always suggest going with the Show’s Sponsor Tanning company.
If possible, do a trial tan several weeks before show day to see how your skin reacts to the DHA solution and to dial in the color.
Get rid of any dead skin cells for an even application.
They can cause streaks and prevent the tanning solution from adhering properly. Stop using the 3-4 days prior to your first tanning appointment.
After your tan, minimize contact with tight fabrics to avoid lines or smudges.
Have a DIY-KIT with bronzer / overnight self-tanner (Show Quality Solution such as Protan) on hand in case you need minor fixes on show day. If you tan with the Sponsor company, they will take care of this for you.
Makeup on show day is about amplifying your features so they’re visible under strong lights. Subtle, everyday looks usually get washed out, so you’ll want a bolder application.
Choose a formula that matches your post-tan skin tone. A long-wear, sweat-resistant foundation is key. The color should be 1-2 shades lighter than your FINAL tan color. Do NOT tan your face.
Use a darker shade under cheekbones, around the forehead, bridge of nose, and along the jawline to sculpt your face. Add a shimmering highlight on the high points (cheekbones, nose bridge) to catch the stage lights.
Shades that complement your complexion are best. Go heavier on the outer corners to add depth. Avoid matching your eyeshadow to your suit color!
A dramatic wing or well-blended liner enhances the eyes. False lashes or lash extensions can give that extra pop.
Fill them in to frame your face — they can disappear under bright lights if left too light or sparse.
A bold lip color can balance intense eye makeup. Choose a lipstick or gloss that won’t smudge easily during the day.
Stage lights can wash out facial features, so your makeup needs to be more dramatic than your everyday look. Opt for bold eyes, defined brows, and full lashes, but balance them with a strong lip color that complements your suit and tan. Avoid clashing colors—coordinate your palette for a cohesive look.
A well-prepped base is essential for long-lasting stage makeup. Start with a mattifying primer to ensure your makeup stays in place and combats shine under the lights. Exfoliate and moisturize beforehand to create a smooth canvas, and allow your products to fully absorb before applying makeup.
Your foundation should be one shade lighter than your competition tan to avoid a dull or overly dark appearance under the intense lighting. This slight contrast will brighten your face and enhance your features. Pair it with bold contouring to define your cheekbones, jawline, and nose for maximum impact on stage.
Use vibrant, shimmery shadows and a sharp winged liner to make your eyes stand out under the lights.While it might be tempting to match your eye makeup to your suit, it can often clash or look overdone under stage lights. Instead, opt for complementary colors that make your eyes pop while keeping the focus on your overall look. Use tones that enhance your natural features and coordinate with your suit for a balanced and polished appearance. False lashes are a must, avoid styles that are so dramatic they cast shadows over your eyes under overhead lighting. Choose long, voluminous lashes that enhance without overpowering.
Lock your makeup in place with a setting spray designed for long wear. This minimizes the need for touch-ups during the day. Use blotting papers to control shine, and bring a translucent powder for emergencies. A good setting spray will keep you looking flawless through every pose.
Test your makeup during a dress rehearsal under stage lighting and photograph it. Adjust any elements to ensure your look is bold, balanced, and competition-ready!
Keep it polished but not distracting. A neutral, french, or subtly sparkly color complements most suits without clashing.
Practice your show-day style (loose waves, straight with body, etc.) beforehand. Stage lights highlight flyaways, so a smoothing serum or spray is crucial. High-quality hair extensions are recommended for depth and volume. We recommend Halo or V-clip styles.
Statement earrings or a simple bracelet can add sparkle, but avoid anything that competes with your suit or draws the eye away from your physique.
This week, we want to see your show day glam inspiration and hear your tried-and-true tips!
Post your entry on your preferred social media platform using the hashtags #SYTYCP #PrepChallenge #BombshellInc, and tag us for a chance to be featured and WIN the WEEK 6 PRIZE!
DISCLAIMER: To qualify for the Weekly Prizes your Social Media MUST be public so we can find your posted content. The hashtags below MUST be used on every week’s engagement challenge to qualify for a prize!
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