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Helpful Tips on How to Compete in a Beauty Pageant

Urvashi Pokharna
Many of us have secretly wanted to be a beauty queen. But, most of us are scared and daunted by the notion that we may not really be as good as the participants of these beauty contests. But competing in a beauty pageant is not rocket science. There are only a few simple rules you must know.
Almost every little girl dreams of growing up into a beautiful young woman and winning a tiara at a prestigious beauty contest or pageant. There are so many who work on themselves for years to win it.
A beauty contest is not just a competition of determining the most beautiful physical attributes of women who compete in them, they also look for personal qualities such as empathy, compassion, emotional and intelligence quotient in the participants.
It is a program that gives recognition to the physical and soulful beauty of people who deserve to be applauded. Winning a pageant is synonymous with becoming a role model and, who doesn't want to be an idol for millions of fans? Participating in such pageants is the second most popular social activity, following cheer-leading, among teens.

Tips to Compete in a Beauty Pageant

Swimsuit Round

Whether your tan is fake or real, do not forget to generously apply sun-block all over face and body. Choose a water-based lotion that is high on ultra-violent protection factor.
If you are concerned about cellulite ruining your look, make sure you are doing toning up exercises regularly. Scrub affected areas with coffee grounds and use a plastic wrap to seal it for 1-2 hours.
Tip: Wear a padded bikini top, whether halter style or not. It will ensure that everything stays in place. Choose a high cut bottom to accentuate your legs. You can also choose a monokini.

Question and Answer Round
While answering a beauty contest question, do not try too hard to impress the judges. Your answers should mirror your real thoughts because nobody is interested in listening to well rehearsed oft-repeated answers. Do not be afraid to exhibit your emotional intellect in your answers.
Tip: You should also try rehearsing some basic pageant questions and answers well before the competition.

Talent Round

Do not be intimidated by the talent round. It is simply a showcase of your hobby and displays your personal qualities. If you are going to perform a dance show, wear comfortable clothing and apply some translucent powder over your makeup to avoid sweat.
Tip: Everyone is blessed with a talent. Do what you are best at in the talent round. It could be a dance style, singing, poetry or a special art. Do not try to fake it, you will be caught if you make a mistake.

Catwalk Round

Your walk defines you. It is the first thing people will notice when you enter the stage. Always walk with poise with your shoulders and back straight, head held high exuding confidence and that is all you need to impress your judges.
Tip: Cross your legs and sway your hips subtly if you can, but don't try to make an intentional effort because it will make your walk look very unnatural. If you are short, choose a long flowing gown in a light color. Stay away from strapless gowns as they could make you look even shorter.

Hairstyle

Wearing the gown - Choose a hairstyle that compliments your face-cut as well as your outfit. Make sure your hair-do is easy to carry and will stay for long hours.
Wearing a swimsuit - You can wear your hair loose in big bouncy curls, beach waves or braids. Your hairstyle and swimsuit should make you look like a natural beach goddess.
Tip: Do not wash your hair on the day of the pageant. Silky hair is difficult to style and won't hold it till the end of the pageant.

Makeup

Follow the rule "less is more". Your makeup should highlight your best features and make you look natural. Use corrective makeup if necessary, to hide spots, blemishes or dark under-eye circles.
Remember, the key to good hair and makeup is a healthy diet. It will give a natural glow to your skin, sheen to your hair and will keep you fit.
Tip: Use hemorrhoids cream under your eyes to get rid of puffy bags or dark patches due to lack of sleep. Use an eye coolant to bring shine to your eyes and make them look fresh. Rub a bit of petroleum jelly on your teeth to get that pearly smile. It reflects light off the surface of your teeth.
Winning a beauty contest or pageant title is a great honor, but if you do not win it, don't ever doubt your abilities or be disheartened by it. You may not have won, but you also haven't lost. Many beauty contestants in history have done better in their careers, than the beauty queens themselves.