Jennifer Rock’s Skin Prep Routine for Dancing With The Stars

Aine Devlin 05.March.2026 0 comments

For the fifth year in a row, skincare expert Jennifer Rock and her team of Skin Nerds have been working behind the scenes at Dancing With The Stars.

Between rehearsals, stage lighting and heavy makeup, the performers’ skin goes through a lot.

Which is why proper skin prep is essential.

As Jennifer says:

“Bottom line: prep well = makeup performs better.”

From calming stressed skin to boosting hydration, the team use a carefully chosen combination of professional treatments and skincare products to keep skin healthy, balanced and glowing.

The Role of Skincare Backstage

Backstage skincare isn't about complicated routines.

It's about supporting the skin barrier, calming sensitivity and ensuring makeup sits beautifully on the skin.

Jennifer explains that the team tailor every facial to the person sitting in the chair — whether it's a presenter needing a quick glow boost or a contestant recovering from long rehearsals.

The Brands Used Behind the Scenes

Alongside other skin care brand one of the brands regularly used by the team is Dr. Hauschka.

Jennifer describes it as:

“ideal for sensitive or sensitised skin, especially after clinical treatments.”

Dr. Hauschka’s botanical formulations help support the skin while also creating a relaxing facial experience , something much needed during busy filming schedules.

Common Skin Concerns on Set

Under strong studio lighting and long hours, the most common skin issues include:

Dryness
Especially around lips, eyes and body.

Sensitivity
Often caused by stress, treatments or environmental changes.

Excess oil
Particularly in the T-zone under makeup.

DWTS Skin Prep: The Products Used

Hydration Essentials

Dr. Hauschka Lip Balm
A backstage favourite for soft, nourished lips thanks to rich organic oils.

Dr. Hauschka Hydrating Eye Cream
Calendula soothes the delicate eye area and supports hydration.

Dr. Hauschka Rose Nurturing Body Oil
A blend of jojoba and sunflower oils that deeply nourish skin from top to toe — especially useful after fake tan.

Balancing Oily Skin

Dr. Hauschka Clarifying Clay Mask

Made with loess clay, this gentle mask helps absorb excess oil and refine pores without drying the skin.

Perfect for keeping the T-zone balanced under makeup.

Why Skin Prep Matters for Makeup

Whether on a TV set or in everyday life, the same rule applies:

Healthy, hydrated skin helps makeup apply more evenly, last longer and look more natural.

Which is why Jennifer Rock’s approach focuses on supporting the skin first before makeup ever touches the face.

Final Thoughts

From Brian Redmond enjoying some facial downtime to Karen Byrne diligently doing her nightly “skin homework”, one thing is clear: Great skin prep is a backstage essential.

And with the right skincare routine, everyone can achieve that camera-ready glow.