With the ACC’s 2020 football schedule released on Wednesday, I can’t help but reminisce on game days. While the outlook for fall remains largely uncertain, we can all still hope for the best and think of the better days ahead—i.e. tailgates and the beloved college game day experience!

What many people don’t know is what that experience is like from the field. As a member of the Cheer Team, game days look quite different. This means swapping Walsh pancake breakfasts for early morning hair/makeup routines and refurbished bookstore t-shirts for a 3-piece uniform set. For me, this meant learning how to curl my hair and finding makeup products that work best for me. While I’m not a hair/makeup expert by any means, here are some beginner’s tips for establishing a solid look for your next game day or night out!

1. Invest in the Right Makeup Products

As someone who doesn’t wear much more than concealer on a daily basis, I learned the necessity of having a good foundation or BB cream. This helps to build a solid base for the rest of your makeup. Many BB creams also contain benefits like hydration, brightening, and anti-aging. Tinted moisturizer can work great too (I live by my Laura Mercier one)! While drug store ones work just fine, I prefer investing in a higher-quality product for my skin. Make sure to find one that matches your skin tone and type. I’d also highly recommend one with SPF, especially if you don’t apply sunscreen beforehand.

Bronzer and contour are your best friend! I find that both really help to accent your facial structure and unique features. Bronzer in particular is great for bringing more color into your face and mimicking that sun-kissed glow.

In the words of one of my teammates, “highlighter makes everything better!” Whether it’s liquid, cream, or powder, highlighter reflects light and adds brightness and definition to your face. I like to take a brush and apply it above my cheekbones, down the bridge of my nose, and above the cupid’s bow.

My last makeup tip is to never underestimate the power of setting spray (or powder). After standing for hours in the sun, I’ve learned to always finish with setting spray. 

2. Prep Your Hair

This is so important! You always want to use heat protectant before curling (or straightening). This will prevent damage to your hair, as well as dryness and frizz.

Before curling, it helps to section your hair to minimize time and ensure you get every piece. I like to use hair clips for this. If I’m in a time crunch, I’ll sometimes curl my hair in a ponytail first, then take it out and adjust as I go.

Hair spray will be your go-to in making sure those curls last! For game days in particular and depending on your occasion, it’s often better to have super tight curls in the morning than to have none left at the end of the game.

3. Do What Makes You Feel Good

While not a technical rule, I think this gets overlooked too often. There is a certain style necessary for cheer on game days, but I hope you can use these tips to empower your style and enhance your already beautiful features! Feel free to be creative and have fun with it.

With some time and effort, you will be sure to find a hair/makeup routine that works best for you.