To be a Dancing With The Stars pro dancer means getting exclusive access to the inner workings of one of TV’s biggest reality shows. This season, which premieres tonight, September 17, pro dancer Rylee Arnold is teamed up with Stephen Nedoroscik. [He rose to fame after winning the bronze medal for his pommel horse routine at the Summer Olympics in Paris.] Arnold, the younger sister of former DWTS pro Lindsay Arnold Cusick, has amassed nearly 2 million followers on social media, with fans eager to hear about her beauty faves. Here, she gives us the inside scoop.
What are you most excited about for this season of DWTS?
“I can’t believe this is my second season on Dancing With The Stars! It’s truly a dream come true to be back doing what I love and have always dreamed of. I’m just excited to be here and continue to grow and learn as a pro. I’m also so excited to be partnered with Stephen! We have had so much fun these past few weeks and it’s been cool to dance with an athlete and create dances that involve his incredible gymnastics skills. I can’t wait to get creative with my choreography this season!”
What advice has your sister Lindsay given you about doing the show?
“She told me to just be myself and always remember that I am good enough and I was asked to be there for a reason. Imposter syndrome is so real, especially when you are the newcomer. Having her has been so helpful, and knowing she always has my back is very comforting.”
What are your go-to makeup products for the show this season?
“I’ve gone on quite the acne journey, so I really gravitate toward hypoallergenic and skin-friendly products that not only help me look great, but also support my skin health. I love using Almay Clear Complexion Makeup. It’s hypoallergenic and perfect for giving my skin a fresh, smooth look on and off stage. For any blemishes, I always reach for the Clear Complexion Concealer, which also targets acne with salicylic acid while providing the coverage I need. For my lips, I’m obsessed with the Color & Care Lip Gloss in Glitters Gold. On DWTS, this gloss is a must-have. It ensures my lips stay hydrated and look radiant under the stage lights.”
Do you have a favorite setting spray to lock it all in before you hit the stage?
“I love L’Oréal’s Infallible Setting Mist, which I use on show days because it sets my makeup and doesn’t transfer! I also love ‘Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray by Patrick Starrr!”
What’s your favorite makeup tip you’ve learned on set from pro makeup artists?
“Hydrating your skin before applying makeup is so important, especially if you have to wear heavy makeup like me. Also, where you apply your blush can really lift your face. I learned to apply it up on the cheek by the corner of my eye for a nice little lift.”
Which cleanser do you use to take off your stage makeup?
“I always make sure to thoroughly cleanse after a show, especially with all the stage makeup. My go-to is the Almay Moisturizing Makeup Remover & Cleanser. It’s hypoallergenic and perfect for sensitive skin like mine. It dissolves even the most stubborn long-wear makeup and leaves my skin feeling clean and nourished, thanks to its hyaluronic acid formula. I typically use this alone because it’s a dual-action remover and cleanser. But, if my skin feels extra congested, I’ll double cleanse to make sure everything’s completely off.”
Let’s talk about your Accutane journey, which I know you’ve been open about. What was that like for you?
“I’m so grateful I went on Accutane! I struggled with my skin and it really helped clear up my acne. It was a long process, but it was worth it. The key to getting through Accutane is to be positive, hydrate your skin, and keep Chapstick near by at all times [laughs]. Also, acne and pimples are so normal and everyone gets them. My skin still isn’t perfect and that is OK! Along my Accutane journey, I learned the importance of only using products that won’t irritate my skin.”
I’m sure that was a lot of trial-and-error. Let’s chat about hair and nails, too. You switch up your nail looks often. Do you use press-ons?
“I love getting my nails done each week to match the theme of our costumes. I’m an OPI girly through and through, and normally have my nail tech get creative with the design! I don’t always have time to get them done, so I have also been loving Dashing Diva Nails. It’s an at-home manicure and it’s so easy to use! I highly recommend it to anyone who loves getting their nails done but doesn’t always have the time to go to a salon.”
How do you keep your blonde hair so bright?
“I love using L’Oréal EverPure Purple Shampoo to keep my hair bright and healthy! I’m also all about mixing different shampoos and conditioners depending on the season, so I also love NEXXUS products. Keeping my hair healthy is so important since I’m constantly putting heat to it. I love Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil to keep my hair hydrated and shiny. I also love Wella’s Ultimate Repair Miracle Hair Rescue, which I use weekly. My favorite hair mask is the K18 Leave-in Molecular Hair Mask. I lather my hair with it and pull it back in a bun!”
