Pageant Queens Swear By These Cheap, Easy Tricks To Make Anyone Look Way Hotter

If you’re looking for a step-up from mascara to make your makeup pop, Savannah Maddison, beauty influencer, two-time first runner-up to Miss Tennessee America, and "certified pageant girly,” loves these false eyelashes. “I discovered these lashes backstage at my first-ever pageant, and I’ve used them ever since. They’re the perfect balance between natural and glam.” Crafted from 100% premium-grade faux mink hair, they’re lightweight for long wear and can even be trimmed for a more natural length.

Maddison loves using this hot air brush for a salon-worthy blowout. “If you're competing in a multi-day pageant, you're going to have to wash your hair. It’s the worst, but this product has helped me blow dry so much faster,” she says. This tool gives your hair maximum volume while minimizing frizz and damage. “Pageant girls know that during multi-day competitions, sleep is beyond essential, and any time saved is valuable.”

If you’re wondering how to achieve glamorous curls at home, this curling iron is your best bet. “I use this to create gorgeous curls, and the long barrel makes a huge difference for that glam, stage-ready look. [...] This is always in my pageant bag!” says Maddison. You can snag this hot tool in two barrel sizes and it features five temperature settings to avoid heat damage.

• Available sizes: 2

Every makeup bag can benefit from this plumping lip gloss. "If you're willing to spend a bit more, City Lips has a plumping effect and gives a gorgeous glow,” Madison recommends. It’s formulated with ultra-hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid to soothe and create fuller looking lips in just seconds.

Maddison tells Elite Daily that “a little gloss on top of your favorite lipstick goes a long way in making your features pop,” and shares that e.l.f. Lip Oil Glimmer is her favorite. It offers a gorgeous shimmer for the perfect glow. This lip oil is formulated with nourishing ingredients that are vegan and cruelty-free. Best of all, it won’t leave a sticky feeling behind.

• Available colors: 8

To ensure your makeup is done precisely, you’ll want to add this LED clip light to your cart. In fact, Maddison argues it’s “imperative that you apply your makeup using a makeup light.” This pick stays charged for up to three hours and is compact enough to toss in your makeup case. “This tiny rechargeable makeup light will make a huge difference in ensuring a perfect makeup transition from the dressing room to the stage. I love that it clips on anywhere!” Maddison adds.

Maddison credits this Sally Hansen spray tan for making her look “airbrushed,” adding that “[...] this finishing touch is sure to help you look and feel your best on stage and off!” It comes in a range of different shades and creates a super natural-looking glow that will last all day. “It’s also great for when your tan starts fading after a multi-day competition!” she explains. “I love the extra pop of confidence it gives me.”

• Available shades: 10

If you’re looking for extra volume and perfect texture, you’ll need two items, according to Maddison. “I use two things — a teasing comb and (a trade secret) volumizing powder. Just apply the powder to your roots, then tease! It’s the most AMAZING secret to this classic pageant result. Such a cheap combo that makes a huge difference!” This hair powder recommended by Maddison instantly creates volume and absorbs oil to refresh your hair so you can skip a day of washing.

• Available sizes: 2

If you’re looking for the perfect teasing combs to achieve voluminous hair like Maddison referred to above, you’ll get so much use out of these teasing combs that come in a pack of three. From adding volume to teasing your roots and creating the perfect middle part, these combs are a must. Each comb features round teeth that are gentle on your scalp. No matter what your dream hairstyle is, you’ll achieve it with these combs.

“Sebastian Shaper hair spray is a CLASSIC for all pageant girls!” Maddison shares. “I love the lightweight control because it's important for our hair to stay, but also have movement on stage. I use this to secure my curls and leave a little bit of bounce.” It offers a flexible hold that is firm yet humidity-resistant. This travel size is perfect for throwing in your bag so you can always touch up on the go.

You’ll save so much getting ready thanks to this blow dry spray. “First of all, this smells AMAZING. I love that it adds no weight to my hair. It speeds up blow-dry time by 50%! I use this every time I blow-dry and always bring it to all pageants,” Maddison raves. This spray is formulated with naturally derived ingredients that work to protect your hair from heat while smoothing and detangling your locks.

“Pageant girls love a dewy skin look,” Maddison says. “I used to spend tons on Charlotte Tilbury's Flawless Filter until I found the ultimate replacement — ELF Glow Liquid!” The cruelty-free ingredients are infused with hyaluronic acid for extra hydration. If you’re wondering how to incorporate this into your makeup routine, Maddison says she applies this before foundation to achieve that “glow from within” look.

• Available shades: 12

You’ll achieve the shiniest hair in seconds thanks to the Shine Mist from DryBar. “Do you ever wonder how pageant girls' hair always looks so shiny? This is our secret!” Maddison dishes. The formula has garnered an impressive 4.6-star average rating and is super lightweight and free of parabens. “Spray shine spray all over after styling for an angelic glow that turns heads,” recommends Maddison.

For shiny hair, Madison also recommends the Shine Infusion Thermal Polishing Spray by CHI. Not only does it add shine, but it also controls frizz while repairing split ends. The spray is formulated with ceramic and proteins to protect your hair from heat damage. It’s also totally free of sulfate and parabens. It works on both dry and wet hair.

With a 4.6-star average rating and over 22,000 Amazon reviews, these metal duck bill clips are a classic tool for getting ready. “I get asked all the time if I use fancy alligator clips, and the answer is no! I love the classic metal duckbill clips,” Madison shares. These ones come in packs of 24 and are also available in an assortment of colors. Shoppers especially love them because they are rust-resistant and super durable. “They're tried and true. Who doesn't love feeling like Marilyn Monroe when getting ready for your pageant?” she adds.

• Available colors: 28

“One thing you don't want to skimp on is makeup remover,” says Aaliyah Kissick, entrepreneur, Miss Illinois United States in 2023, and Top 10 finalist of Miss United States 2023. “I use Clinique's Take The Day Off cleansing balm which is a wonderful balance between value and quality,” she tells Elite Daily. It’s formulated with healthy oils that hydrate your skin while dissolving makeup and sunscreen in seconds. You won’t have to worry about stripping or drying your skin.

• Available sizes: 4

If you’re in the market for a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin, Kissick loves Youth To The People’s cleanser. It’s formulated with superfoods such as green tea and spinach and is incredibly nutrient-dense. This face wash is amazing because it leaves your skin soft and glowing. It also works wonders for removing makeup and SPF.

There’s nothing more annoying than checking your makeup throughout the day only to notice it didn’t last. Luckily, this NYX setting spray will come in handy since it makes your makeup last up to 16 hours. “It's heartbreaking to spend time working on makeup and then having it come off quickly. This is an affordable setting spray that keeps my makeup air-tight,” Kissick explains. It’s formulated to leave a matte finish and features all vegan ingredients.

If you don’t want to use glue near your eyes, you’ll love these magnetic lashes that Kissick recommends. “I'm not a professional makeup artist and lash application was daunting for me. When I started using magnetic lashes, it was a game changer. One set lasted me for almost an entire week of competition,” she shares. Each lash strip features five magnets for a strong hold all night long. The lashes are made from faux silk and are meant to last up to 15 wears.

“This is a great starter palette that has daytime and nighttime looks with shimmer and matte. Morphe lasts all day for me. It's great for appearances and onstage,” Kissick says. This palette features nine different shades that feature cool browns, gold, silver, and neutrals that will work on anybody. Reviewers especially love how well this formula blends out.

• Available colors: 3

Eha Urbsalu, beauty sponsor for Miss Minnesota, Miss Estonia, and Miss Finland, beauty entrepreneur, and founder of the Nordic natural skincare brand Viking Beauty Secrets, knows it all. She describes this L’Oreal hairspray as a “classic for a reason!” She tells Elite Daily, “This unscented hairspray provides a long-lasting hold while keeping hair touchable and soft. Perfect for locking in your style without any stiff or sticky feel.”

There’s so much to love about this SPF spray. It’s safe to use on both your face and body and has a lightweight formula that won’t leave a greasy residue behind. "If you prefer to tan your body naturally — not with a bronzer — I recommend a clean beauty, reef-friendly, and non-greasy sunscreen. This water-resistant, quick-dry spray is also cruelty-free,” Urbsalu raves.

When it comes to achieving a glistening glow, Urbsalu recommends this shimmer lotion by Victoria’s Secret. "If you don’t need tanning, bronzing [...] on your body but want a light shimmer, Victoria’s Secret has you covered,” she explains. It has an impressive 4.5-star average rating and shoppers especially love how refreshing the smell is without being overpowering.

“There’s a reason why movie stars like [...] Sienna Miller turn to this brand when they need a special youthful glow. The Hollywood Flawless Filter Foundation is exactly what it sounds like,” Urbsalu raves to Elite Daily. If you’re looking for dewy skin that’ll make you look smooth and airbrushed, this product checks all the boxes. It’s also available in a travel size in case you want to test it out before committing.

• Available shades: 4
• Available sizes: 2

You’ll look more awake in just seconds thanks to this under-eye brightener, according to Urbsalu. “There’s nothing that compares to the original (and I have tried many). This milky concealer is still the best for brightening under-eye dark circles without a heavy concealer look.” The lightweight formula is buildable so you can customize your coverage. It comes in four shades and the compact size is perfect for throwing in your purse for touch-ups on the go

• Available shades: 4

Plenty of shoppers can attest to how amazing this Smashbox makeup primer is. Urbsalu says, “Before any makeup, we apply a bit of a primer. How does it differ from a day cream? It doesn’t absorb right away into the skin but rather provides a gentle layer to help prepare your skin for makeup.” This formula is packed with incredible ingredients such as vitamins A and E and will help your foundation go on smoothly and flawlessly.

“Makeup stays best on balanced skin, so even if there are some signs of acne or stress, use a calming skin serum,” Urbsalu explains. This exfoliating face serum is a great choice. It’s packed with mandelic acid, salicylic acid, and vitamin B3 and is free of fragrances. Not only is this designed to reduce pigmentation and even skin texture, but it’s also incredible for anyone with acne-prone skin.

“This vegan collagen elixir supports skin hydration and elasticity, helping you glow from the inside out,” Urbsalu recommends. It’s packed with vitamin C and is great for promoting healthy hair and nail growth and may even boost your mood and a good night’s sleep. Simply pour one pack into a water bottle and drink once or twice a day for four to six weeks for the best results.

As a beauty expert, Urbsalu knows how important it is to clean your makeup brushes. She tells Elite Daily, “This gentle, fragrance-free cleanser keeps makeup brushes and sponges fresh, so they’re ready for blending makeup into your skincare routine.” The formula is dermatologist-tested, so it’s safe to use for anyone with sensitive skin. Best of all, it also comes with two makeup brushes.

If you're looking for easy ways to improve your sleep, give this cooling sleep mask a try. “Skin prep starts with proper rest. This cooling, gel-infused sleep mask helps block light and soothe tired eyes,” Urbsalu says. It’s crafted from a breathable fabric that helps reduce nighttime sweating. The ergonomic design contours to your eyes and has a secure fit, thanks to the velcro strap. “It’s also a travel essential for long flights before a big event,” she adds.

• Available colors: 2

Shriya Boppana, Miss Grand US Virgin Islands 2024 first runner-up, loves these under-eye patches for extra skin hydration. “I switch between putting two on my forehead and under my eyes. I find that they also stop my skin from drying out if I sleep on a rough pillowcase.” They are formulated to lock in moisture and Boppana says they “work wonders.”

Boppana recommends this tea tree oil with over 84,000 five-star reviews for treating pimples and reducing inflammation. Shoppers not only love it for their skin but for growing their hair and nails. “Just wet one side of a Q-tip and pour on a drop of oil, then dab on the pimple and hold for 2 seconds. I've been using this trick since high school and it's my best-kept secret,” she says.

“If you want your clothes to never budge (sweat-proof, heat-resistant) use glue instead of dress/fashion tape,” Boppana explains. This adhesive lasts for four hours and has a hypoallergenic formula, making it great for anyone who has sensitive skin. “Roll on a little directly to the skin, let it get tacky for a second, and then stick the clothing item on glue and press down. It will hold your bathing suit bottoms in place in the middle of the ocean!” Boppana raves.

Pageant coach Jayme Perryman says, “Beauty Blenders are my ultimate secret weapon for flawless makeup! They create a smooth, airbrushed finish that blends foundation and concealer effortlessly, making your skin look radiant and camera-ready every time. When in doubt, blend it out!" This fan-favorite blender can last up to six months and is super easy to wash after each use.

• Available colors: 13

“Body Glide Foot Glide is a lifesaver,” Perryman says. “Because no one looks cute limping in heels!” This balm is a dream for preventing blisters. It’s made with plant-derived ingredients and is packed with vitamins A and C to help minimize inflammation. “Swipe this magic stick on and say goodbye to blisters, whether you’re strutting the stage, running errands, or breaking in those killer new shoes. Your feet will thank you,” she adds.

Perfect for backless tops, plunging necklines, and most importantly — conquering wardrobe malfunctions fashion tape is a game-changer. “This tiny hero keeps everything in place — whether it’s your gown, top, or sanity. Stick it, forget it, and slay with confidence (no unexpected reveals),” Perryman says. Dubbed a best-seller on Amazon, this tape is safe for sensitive skin. It also comes in many different types that work well for delicate fabrics or an extra-wide sweat and water-resistant version.

“Sometimes, ‘the girls’ need a little support,” Perryman tells Elite Daily. The solution? This double-sided sticky bra makes wearing low-cut silhouettes and sheer tops so much easier. Not only will it give your chest the perfect lift, but it’s also super versatile no matter your outfit. You can stick these inserts in your swimsuits, evening gowns, or sports bras. The adhesive is sweat-resistant and waterproof for all-day comfort.

• Available colors: 2
• Available sizes: Medium (fits A-B cups) — Large (fits C-D cups)

“If applications of other products don't work there is always Moleskin,” says Perryman. Moleskin is useful as extra padding where you need more support. Think: under your soles when you’re on your feet all day. Perryman adds, “This cushioned roll is your secret weapon for unbeatable protection and relief.”

Maria Jones, a professional makeup artist & hair stylist at CoverClap, works with beauty pageant contestants, and describes Batiste dry shampoo as a “game-changer.” She tells Elite Daily, “Pageant queens quite often have to restyle throughout the day, and this dry shampoo instantly revives volume and freshness.”

Jones also recommends this NYX Professional Makeup Highlight & Contour Pro Palette. She says it’s “affordable, super pigmented, and allows contestants to carve out their features beautifully under stage lighting.” This refillable palette features eight creamy shades providing coverage in the form of concealer, blush, bronzer, and foundation.