How to Do Cheerleader Makeup for Halloween

Halloween, my favorite holiday, (and wedding anniversary), is right around the corner, and this year I have decided to dress up like a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader. The cheerleader look goes far beyond having the right costume. After years, (and years) of research, I have come up with an assortment of tricks to get that all-American cheerleader look just in time for Halloween, and I am going to share them with you.

Before makeup application, an all-over golden tan is a must have for any cheerleader costume. If you did not get enough of the summer rays, you do have an option that is much safer than tanning beds. Extended Vacation Moroccan Mineral Dark Tan, (available at www.amazon.com for about $26) is the best self tanner that I have ever tried. I cannot say enough great things about this product. The color guide not only provides an instant bronze color, but allows for streak free application because you can actually see where you are applying the product. Extended vacation has a great scent, unlike most self tanning products on the marker. One word to the wise, wear gloves when applying this product as it is very effective!

For flawless foundation application, apply a silicone-based face primer like Hard Candy Sheer Envy Primer ($8 at www.walmart.com). Apply the primer at least five minutes prior to foundation application to give it time to set and provide a canvas for your makeup to adhere to.

When applying your favorite foundation, don't forget your neck and cleavage. These areas will be more visible in a cheerleading costume than at any other time. An even toned complexion will complement your cheerleading outfit more than any other accessory or cosmetic trick.

I am not going to preach about the importance of groomed eyebrows (get them done!), this time, because I want to concentrate on your eyelashes. If you have ever wondered what mascara your favorite cheerleaders use to get their lashes so long and thick, stop. This wide-eyed sexy look is achieved with the aid of false eyelashes. The brand does not matter, it is the method of application that is important here. Before applying any adhesive, place them on your lid, next to your natural lashes to see if any trimming is necessary. The application of false eyelashes should be done after foundation application, but before applying your eye makeup. Apply a light coat of mascara to your natural lashes and allow time for them to dry. Apply a very thin line of adhesive to the false eyelashes and apply them as closely to your natural lashes as possible. Once the adhesive is dry, curl natural and false eyelashes together with an eyelash curler. Proceed to do the rest of your eye makeup.

The finishing touch to any Halloween Cheerleader Costume is the hair. You don't have to be a blonde, but soft, bouncy hair will make your costume more convincing. Blow dry your hair upside down, then curl with a large barreled curling iron, or hot rollers. Use an anti-humidity hairspray like Pantene Medium Thick Hair Style Anti-Humidity Hairspray to set your style. Now you are ready to trick or treat.