When you are working as a model, there are some basic grooming necessities you should know. As an introduction let’s cover the basic topics and then over the coming months I will go into more detail with suggested products and proven tips to help you get the best results from your skincare and makeup.
Hair is a huge part of the impact of a model’s look. It should always look healthy, clean and shiny. Models need to keep their hair in excellent condition, with regular cuts and conditioning treatments. When you are booked for a shoot, you need to plan ahead. Always ensure your hair has been washed the morning before and not on the morning of your shoot, because hair that is too clean can be difficult to manage and style.
Tip: Never turn up to your shoot with wet hair or hair that has product in it – this is a big “no no” and can hold up a shoot.
Eyebrows must be kept tidy and shaped with regular grooming. Eyebrows frame your face and enhance your eye shape, so it’s very important they look good and that there are no stray or unruly hairs. You may choose waxing, threading (an ancient hair removal technique using a cotton thead) or plucking. If you are unsure about what you are doing it’s much better to see a beautician the first time, to set a ‘blueprint’. You can then follow the shape at home using a tweezer. Hairs between the brows should be removed.
Tip: Dont over-tweeze your brows. Make plucking a weekly occurence, instead of a major “do it all at once” kind of thing. That’s usually when you take too much.
I find the upper lip is an area that is often forgotten. We all have hair all over our bodies, including our upper lip, and it is definitely an area some girls need to maintain more than others. If you have dark hair, thick hair, or are of certain ethnicities, you may find the hair on the upper lip is more visible.
Tip: I recommend having your upper lip hair waxed or threaded every six weeks. Even with very fair hair, makeup can sit in the hairs, or the hair can create a shadow in close-up or beauty shots.
Nails should be manicured at home at least once a week, and with a professional manicure at least every four to six weeks. Keep your hands looking clean and polished. Dry hands, and scabby cuticles are not attractive on any model, so use a handcream (it doesn’t have to be the girly stuff that stinks of flowers, lads). Nail varnish, once applied, should be carefully maintained, never left chipped. Don’t forget the toe-nails, especially for summer shoots where sandals will be worn – a pedicure is a way to improve the appearance of the feet, heels and toenails. It is basically a manicure for the feet. A pedicure can also be helpful to prevent nail diseases and nail disorders while giving you pretty feet.
Tip: If you have a shoot booked always go with nude nail colour (hands and feet), never anything else.
Bodycare is essential to feeling fabulous and looking fabulous! The skin is the largest organ of the body. It is comprised of 90% water, and it needs the right amount of water to keep that level, or the skin tends to look unhealthy and dry. Because water is vital to keep your skin looking and feeling beautiful, be kind to your skin by drinking plenty of water. Scientific evidence is overwhelming that sun damage dramatically increases the signs of ageing. Always weara high-factor sunscreen. Exfoliate your body at least once a week to help your skin to glow. This removes the dull and dead layers of skin that linger on the surface making it appear dull and lacking in tone. Moisturise your body daily to help maintain its health and vitality.
Tip: Modelling is a fulltime job and your body is your temple… you know the drill. Keep your skin hydrated and even in tone to help the photographer and makeup artist.
Aimee’s message of the month:
“I’ve never seen a smiling face that wasn’t beautiful.”
