Makeup for the ramp tends to be more fashion oriented, based on the requirement of the designer’s concept and the theme that needs to be portrayed without taking away from the focus of the clothes. The application of the makeup itself is light handed and natural looking with emphasis on the chiseled and prominent features like the eyes, cheekbones and lips.

Makeup for a dance performance is far more intense. The products used are mostly cream based, perfect to withstand long hours, rigorous movements, perspiration and is largely transfer proof. The eyes of the dancer or performer is usually defined and exaggerated so that the expressions are visible to the audience, even to the person seated farthest from the stage. Unlike a model on the ramp who appears in front of an audience for seconds or a few minutes, dancers and performers are required to sometimes perform on stage on certain pieces that might last more than an hour. The wear and sustenance of hair and makeup is of prime importance here.