How to Prep Your Skin & Hair for Headshots (Without Panic Googling)

Hello, World!

Let’s talk pre-shoot prep. Not the frantic kind where you Google “how to depuff your face with frozen peas” at 2 a.m.—the kind that actually helps you look like your best self on camera, without turning your bathroom into a spa-themed crime scene.

If you’re wondering what to do with your skin, hair, and general human face before your headshot session, I’ve got you. Here’s how to prep for headshots the right way—whether you’re an actor, executive, or somewhere in the glorious middle.

Still curious about how the actual shoot unfolds? Peek behind the scenes in this post.

Two Days Before: Treat Yourself Kindly

This is not the time for experimental facials, extra spicy ramen, or your friend’s TikTok clay mask that smells like regret. Keep it simple, hydrating, and boring—in a good way.

• Hydrate: Water, not espresso (okay, maybe both). Hydrated skin glows on camera.
• Sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours so your eyes aren’t sending out distress flares.
• Skincare: Stick with your usual routine. A gentle exfoliation is okay, but skip peels or retinol.

The Day Before: Hair Check + Outfit Steam

Fresh, not fussy. That’s the goal. If you’re coloring your hair, do it 2–3 days out so it has time to settle. Blowouts or trims? The day before works great.

• Hair: Style it how you’d normally wear it for work or auditions. Avoid product overload unless you want to audition for “Grease: The Reboot.”
• Shaving/Beards: Shave or tidy up facial hair the day before to avoid redness or bumps.
• Outfits: Choose 2–3 looks. Steam or iron them so your headshot doesn’t scream “I got dressed in a dryer.”

Day of the Shoot: Keep It Light

This isn’t the time to try contouring for the first time or wear lashes that cast their own shadows. You want to look like you—on a great day, not a glamazon who got lost on the way to a red carpet.

• Skin: Clean, moisturized, and lightly primed. If you wear makeup, go natural and matte—avoid shimmer or SPF-heavy products that flash oddly on camera.
• Lips: A little lip balm or neutral tint is perfect. Dry lips = cranky edits.
• Hair: Keep it tidy and touchable. If it’s windy or warm, I’ll help you tweak it as we go.

Bonus: Bring a Kit

A small prep kit goes a long way. Here’s what you might want to toss in your bag:

• Blotting papers or pressed powder
• Comb or small brush
• Hairspray or product (if needed)
• Chapstick or lip tint
• Water bottle (hydration continues!)

And if you forget something? Don’t stress. I’ve got backups of the basics in studio—and we’ll roll with it.

Looking great in your headshot doesn’t take a glam squad.
A little smart prep goes a long way—and the camera will love you for it. Ready to book your shoot? Let’s make it happen. 🎯

Coming up next: best poses for headshots (and why they work)—from chin tilts to posture magic, I’ll show you what flatters and why.