For Jayme Jo Massoud, beauty exists in two distinct categories: performance and everything else. Bright stage lights necessitate bold, long-wearing products designed to endure heat, movement and the intensity of a live audience. Off duty, her approach is a little more stripped-back, focused on enhancing rather than transforming.
From the pre-show products she relies on to build lasting glam, to the wind-down rituals she turns to after a high-adrenaline night on stage, she shares the staple products that have a permanent place in her beauty bag, below.
How does your beauty routine shift between performance days on stage and your off-duty lifestyle content days?
It is like night and day! I live for a full beat when it comes to performances. A bold look that lasts through sweat, hot lights, long nights and that really enhances my features so even the back row can see me. When it comes to my off duty days everything is entirely stripped back, I like to enhance my features in small ways like a cheek tint, lip liner and softly brushed brow…the simpler the better!
What does your pre-show routine look like when you’re preparing for long performance nights – what are the first products you reach for?
I need my makeup to last but am not a primer person so I slap on a simple face cream and immediately go in with a long-lasting foundation like Estee Lauder Double Wear layered with a full face of cream contouring to build the look. A good setting powder is absolutely crucial to lock everything into place, finishing with the Rare Beauty setting spray for maximum security.
After a big night performing on stage, what does your wind-down ritual look like to reset both skin and mind?
Winding down after a high adrenaline show looks different for everyone. I personally take my drive home with no music or podcasts to clear my mind and treat myself to a nourishing meal before everything shower, extra hot to relax my muscles and body. In terms of skincare, I like to keep it simple before bed, cleansing with micellar water and applying a restorative face serum.
Are there any affordable or everyday beauty finds you use as part of your beauty and skincare routine?
Absolutely! I grew up obsessed with drugstore makeup and still have full faith in my Maybelline mascaras. I also love drugstore hair products like Pantene and John Frieda, they are great staples I always go back to. I also adore Aveeno skincare products as a sensitive skin girl, they are always reliable and accessible.
Performing schedules can be intense – how do you stay energised during long rehearsal periods or back-to-back shows?
I personally survive on pure vibes. I don’t drink coffee or any caffeine so I rely on fuelling my body well with great homemade meals, plenty of sleep and lots of vitamin D! Besides that, adrenaline gets me through, there is nothing better than a full audience.
Do you incorporate any professional treatments (like facials, lymphatic massage, or recovery therapies) to maintain your skin and wellbeing?
Not usually, my mum always taught me how to take good care of myself at home and on a budget. Even now I love to do my own beauty treatments with so many amazing products on the market and even with at home ingredients.
On days when you’re exhausted or coming off a big performance, what’s your go-to beauty trick to feel refreshed again?
I love a good eye patch to de puff and facial massage to release any tension that comes with singing and being onstage. Homemade teas are also another way I feel refreshed and relaxed during performance season and I absolutely love the use of Musk in my routine. It’s an Arab beauty secret that keeps you smelling fresh and clean 24/7.
What’s one non-negotiable step in your routine, no matter how busy your life gets?
Always, always lip liner. I could be wearing nothing else and still throw on my favourite emotional support lip liner.
Is there a beauty or stage icon who has influenced your look or approach to performance glamour?
I am very intrigued by old Hollywood movie stars and their dramatic makeup and have especially drawn inspiration from Liza Minnelli. She is a Theatre icon with a timeless and identifiable makeup look that really sets the tone for most stage looks today.
What’s the best beauty or stage-ready tip you’ve learned from being in theatre or backstage?
I learned my colours! After years of applying makeup before performances, it really taught me how important it is to understand your personal colour pallet. Now I solely stick to cool, soft tones that enhance my features and build my looks with products I know will flatter me best. It’s a true game changer.
If you had to keep just one product in your bag, what would it be and why?
A lip/cheek tint goes a long way for me. I have almost finished an entire Benetint because I use it every single day to brighten up my look. Blush blindness doesn’t exist to me.
Images by @JaymeJo
