How NOT to do makeup

Here's a personal experience that will hopefully spare some of you one day. We just opened "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at the school where I teach drama. I have a great group of parents who like to help with hair and makeup, and some of them brought in some jewels to put on the fairies' faces. Unfortunately, they brought the wrong stuff to apply the jewels. Now a student is at the doctor's office, and the school office is in crisis mode.

I was unaware of the situation when it happened, but as the director, I should have paid attention. It's my responsibility to know what's happening in the makeup room, and if you're directing plays the responsibility will be yours.

Before using stage makeup with your students, make sure you and/or your makeup lead heed these tips:

Always know exactly what it is you are applying to your student's faces. Make sure it's safe, non-toxic, hypo-allergenic.

ONLY use products that were designed for skin application. Do not use paint, glue, rubber cement, or anything that wasn't made for skin contact.

I strongly recommend buying through a theatrical supply store that has someone in-house who knows makeup. Ask lots of questions, and take the time to educate yourself.

Before you apply anything, make sure the student does not have any skin allergies. When in doubt, ask a parent.

If possible, test material with a small application on the back of the hand.

If you're still in doubt - don't.

A little precaution ahead of time will save you a lot of trouble later.