Blistered ankles, teased hair: what TV dance shows reveal

When a USA TODAY reporter spent a weekend on the set of Dancing with the Stars, their dispatch captured more than the glitz: it highlighted the physical toll of live TV performance — blistered ankles, hours of teasing and heavy styling, and the constant use of wigs and sprays. For hair professionals and enthusiasts alike, such behind-the-scenes accounts offer a useful glimpse into how high-octane productions shape hairstyling methods, product choices and long-term hair health.

What backstage life tells us about professional styling

Televised dance shows demand looks that read instantly on camera and survive vigorous movement, hot lights and quick costume changes. That often means extreme hold, volume and fast fixes — the kinds of techniques that aren’t always kind to natural hair. Teasing, heavy application of hairspray and frequent use of heat or adhesive-backed wigs are practical choices for the broadcast environment but can contribute to breakage, scalp sensitivity and weakened hair over time.

Key observations from the report underline three realities: stylists work rapidly to achieve dramatic shapes; products with strong polymers and high alcohol content are commonly used for hold; and wigs or hairpieces are frequently relied upon to ensure consistency from dance to dance. These choices are pragmatic for TV, yet they also raise questions about maintenance and recovery for performers’ hair between shows.

Practical haircare lessons from the set

Stylists on set balance aesthetics with longevity. While we can’t replicate studio conditions at home, several professional approaches translate well to everyday haircare, especially for anyone who frequently styles for nights out, events or stage work.

• Prioritise scalp-friendly cleanses: after heavy product use, choose a gentle clarifying shampoo once a week to remove build-up without stripping natural oils.
• Rehydrate routinely: use a nourishing conditioner and an occasional deep-treatment mask to restore elasticity lost through teasing and heat.
• Protect before you style: always apply a heat protectant when using hot tools and limit the temperature where possible.
• Rotate styling methods: avoid repeating the same high-tension styles; give hair and scalp recovery time with looser, low-tension hairstyles.
• Use wigs wisely: if you wear wigs or extensions, ensure they’re fitted correctly and removed gently to prevent traction on hair follicles.

Quick fixes and backstage-friendly routines

On set, solutions must be fast and reliable. Many of these quick fixes can be adapted for daily life when you need your hair to last through long events without damage.

• Spot-smoothing: a small amount of lightweight oil on the ends tames frizz without weighing down volume.
• Root refresh: dry shampoo can absorb oil and restore lift — but choose formulas with gentle ingredients and use sparingly.
• Secure with care: when pinning up hair, use soft hair ties and pin placement that distributes tension, rather than sharply pulling from a single point.
• Emergency repair: leave-in conditioners and protein-rich treatments can help fortify hair after repeated styling sessions.

These routines are simple to incorporate and help bridge the gap between the theatrical demands of a studio and the long-term resilience of hair.

Takeaway

Backstage reporting from shows like Dancing with the Stars highlights a balancing act: achieving camera-ready styles while protecting hair health. For professionals and consumers, the lesson is to combine reliable styling techniques with intentional recovery. Regular cleanses, deep conditioning, heat protection and conscientious use of wigs or heavy-hold products keep hair-looking spectacular without compromising its strength.