Mentioning the Unmentionables

It’s very easy for us dance moms to remember the “big” performance day essentials (costumes, props, hair and makeup, etc.). But we might forget all of the other items we need to get our dancers stage-ready! While they’re not nearly as glamorous as a blinged-out costume, having the supporting cast of products ready to go is no less important. Take a look at these categories of “unmentionables” that deserve our attention.

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Above the “Equator”

The Head and Face

Acne – As much as our dancers hope they won’t fall victim to an outbreak on or near a performance day, we wise dance parents know it can happen! To be prepared, I keep a stash of hydrocolloid pimple patches on hand. Our favorites are Mighty Patch and Emergency Acne Patches. 

Facial Hair – Some of our older dancers may struggle with keeping facial hair at bay. Thankfully, there are so many options to choose from: hair removal devices, creams, and dermaplaning tools are safer than ever. And of course, you can always grab a pair of tweezers (we use this set)! 

Dandruff – No one wants their child to feel self-conscious on a performance day, and nothing can zap a kid’s confidence like seeing flakes in their hair. If your child struggles with this annoying condition, switch to an anti-dandruff shampoo formulated just for kids. For teens, an adult-strength formula will do.

From the Shoulders to the Waist

The Chest – Listen, I really can’t think of any other way to say it, so here I go: Sometimes, our dancers’ nipples show through the fabric of their costumes. Stage lights are notoriously unforgiving, so we need to do something about that. Many dance moms will sew a liner into the costume in question, and I highly recommend that strategy as well. But if that doesn’t work, you do have some other options for your female dancers. 

Depending on the costume’s silhouette (including the back and neckline), a dance bra with clear straps might be a good fit. A camisole leotard has the benefit of creating a smooth line all the way down the torso, and providing protection south of the equator, too. Nipple covers are available as disposable adhesive patches or silicone disks. Some dance moms swear by boob tape, which has the added benefit of offering some support. Adhesive bras are also worth taking a serious look into. Your dancer might need to try out a few options, depending on the cut of the costume, their personal comfort, and other factors. 

The Pits – Once your dancer starts growing hair under their arms, there’s no turning back! Male dancers may opt to leave it alone, while others may choose to remove (or at least tame) it. Traditionally, female dancers want to eliminate it altogether. We keep disposable razors in their dance bags, and have an electric razor at home. To treat razor “bumps” and ingrown hairs, try a roll-on solution designed to alleviate those conditions. If your dancer is self-conscious about darker skin in that area, a lightening cream may do the trick. 

While a regular strength deodorant will work for some dancers, others might need stronger protection. If that’s the case for your dancer, try a clinical strength deodorant.

Below the Equator

Underwear – When female dancers are younger, they might be fine going “commando” under their costumes. But as they get older, they may need more protection. Depending on the cut and color of the costume (as well as your dancer’s comfort), you may choose bikini or thong underwear to give them that sense of security. Your safest bet would be to find seamless underwear so they lie flat under the costume; my girls love these. Be sure to check that they’re seamless, so that you can avoid telltale lines. For the boys, a full-seat brief or belt will usually work.

The Bikini Line and Legs – To keep a smooth silhouette, your dancer may need to tame the hair below the equator. When my girls started asking about shaving their legs, I bought them an electric razor that could take care of the legs and, uh, “other” areas. To keep the area from becoming irritated, I make sure to have a supply of shaving cream on hand as well. If your dancer uses a traditional razor and suffers from bikini bumps or other irritation, using an after shave cream could get rid of them.

High-Friction Areas – Some dancers develop chafing on areas of the body that experience rubbing or other friction (i.e., between the thighs). An anti-chafe balm will be helpful in preventing this! We’ve had great success with the brand Body Glide. 

Feet – Listen, serious dancers generally wouldn’t win any beauty pageants for feet. But help your child to feel less self-conscious about how they smell, especially if they are prone to stinkiness. Until recently, I had never even heard of foot deodorant, but it’s apparently a thing! You could also try a spray (many are made with tea tree oil) or wipes. 

Menstruation Representation

I couldn’t do a post without some discussion of Aunt Flo (sorry, fellas)! My girls have now achieved the milestone of having to compete while on their periods, so I know firsthand how important it is to be prepared. 

While we know some girls who have managed with pads, the vast majority of ladies tend to go with tampons. I routinely buy variety packs of sports tampons for my girls. If your girl is older or just otherwise “ready,” she has more options. Menstrual discs can hold up to 5 tampons’ worth of fluid, are disposable, and prevent irritation, odor, and more. More girls are turning to menstrual cups, which can be worn for up to 12 hours and are generally made with medical-grade silicone (make sure you get the wash and storage cup, too). It might take a bit of time and research, but you might be able to find period underwear that will work with your dancer’s costumes, too.

For our dancers to feel their most confident on stage, we have to arm them with all the supplies they need to pull the entire look together. Look beyond the obvious to make sure they’re prepared from head to toe!

Don’t forget to prepare for all of your dancer’s costuming needs! Check out Competition Essentials – Costuming to make sure you’ve got everything you need.