by Lori Kaye

Created on: August 18, 2009

Cheerleaders aren't just athletes; they're the face of their school. They are the representatives of their college, high school, junior high, even professional sport team. Just a quick glance tells you whether it's the Dallas Cowboys or the New England Patriots, LSU or USC, or Houston High School (Large Varsity Champions at the 2009 National High School Championships).

As representatives, it's important to present a good image. To help you do that, here are some beauty tips for cheerleaders.

Makeup

One of the few ways a cheerleader can express her own individuality is through her makeup. Use waterproof mascara and eyeliner. To keep the eyeliner from running, apply it only to the top lid, at the base of the lashes. For a natural look, choose a light pastel or flesh-toned shadow. If you go with a flesh tone, pick one a few shades darker or lighter than your own skin. Top off your look with lip gloss. Lip stick looks too formal, gloss looks more athletic.

Nail Polish

Polished nails make your hands look beautiful as you wave them in the air during cheers. Lighter shades are best, because darker colors can look like dirty hands when seen from a distance. School colors should be avoided, unless the whole team chooses to wear them. Uniform blue and gold (or whatever your colors) looks great!

Body Makeup

Sparkling body glitter looks great when you're cheering. It sparkles and reflects light back to the crowd. Use it sparingly, though. You don't want to look like a gold statuette. Also, put as little as possible on your face or it can get into your eyes as you perspire.

Hair

The easiest hairstyles for cheerleaders are short, because short hair doesn't get in your eyes or get snagged by other cheerleaders during performances. If your hair is long, you should pull it back into braids, ponytails, or buns. You can weave in ribbons in your team's colors. Keep them short, though, or the ribbons can get in your way. Use a small amount of mousse or gel to hold hair in place. Too much can run as you perspire, and may get into your eyes.

Drink Water

To look your best, you need to be certain to drink plenty of water. Dehydrated skin looks dull, and your lips get chapped. It can also cause fatigue, so you won't perform to your best ability.

Uniform

Keep your uniform neat and clean. Wash the uniform after every event, and be certain you hang it up or fold it. A rumpled uniform makes you look untidy.

These beauty tips are only a part of a cheerleader's regimen. It's also important to get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat balanced meals. Experiment with your makeup until you have a quick and easy beauty routine.

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