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Nadine Dumas
Photo: Jason Breeze Photography
ZONING IN ON COMPETITION COLOR
Q&A
By Elise Firestone
Continued from the November 2008 20th Anniversary Issue of NB&F. The issue hits newsstands August 4!
Q: What does the perfect tan look like?
A: The perfect tan is even and dark. The darker the better.
Q: Should I go to a tanning salon beforehand?
A: Some people like to go tanning a few times before the application process. As an esthetician who is an advocate of healthy skin, I do not condone tanning, but I do know competitors who do. Remember, if you apply many coats, you don’t need to be tan beforehand.
Q: How many applications?
A: As I explained in this article, it all depends on your skin’s pH level and how well you’ve exfoliated. Everyone is different. Again, the darker the better.
Q: Can I start mixing colors?
A: I have seen it done before. Some of you like to be your own chemist. It is okay to use different colors if you’re applying it at different application times. Do not start mixing and creating new colors.
Q: Do African Americans or those with darker complexions need to tan?
A: Yes, even those who are lucky enough to have dark skin. They still need to tan so they look muscular on stage and striations are shown.
Q: How long does the color last after application?
A: For Jantana and ProTan, the color can last as long as you moisturize and take care of it. What is great about Jantana is you can still have that great color the day after use for your photo shoots. If you are competing and Jantana and her staff are available for airbrushing, I strongly recommend spending the extra money and doing so. The staff is knowledgeable and has worked with some of the top athletes.
ProTan and Jantana color is removed by exfoliating in the shower, and will fade over a period of days. After speaking with competitors, I have found that Dream Tan is the one product that competitors find comes off easiest. Now this could be a good and bad thing. If you sweat a lot or rub against anything or anyone you might rub the color off when you don’t want it to come off.
Q: Should I use the tanning product on my face?
A: No! The skin on your face is much more delicate than the skin on your body, so you must find a matching foundation that will match your tan. Aim along the lines of MAC NW 40, 43, 45 or 50 in Studio Tech. Also, Jantana has created the first-ever foundation and concealer that is specifically designed to match your body, and for color. However, remember that it’s very important to match your face color, because a white face and tan body looks silly.
Q: What about airbrush machines?
A: More and more tanning salons are now offering airbrush tanning. But make sure if you do this, you purchase the professional sized product directly from the company that you choose and bring to the salon. Also, I recommend having a trial run to make sure that the person who is spraying you understands the color you are trying to achieve.
Q: Do men need face makeup?
A: Yes! I hate seeing those bodybuilders with the white raccoon circles around their eyes or who have shaved their head but forgot to use color. You need foundation, too.
I hope I have given you some insight as to what products are available and what would work best for you when choosing a competition color kit. Keep in mind that the darker you are, the better you are going to look onstage.
Editor's Note: Elise Firestone is a figure competitor, makeup artist and owner of Cosmetic Artistry by Elise. Visit her website at elisefirestone.com. For more information on Elise’s personalized makeup services, e-mail her at elisefirestone@yahoo.com.
