Make-up banned for Irish dancers under 10

A ban on make-up for Irish dancers under 10 will come into effect this Spring.

The youngsters will no longer be allowed to perform in competitions wearing make-up or false lashes under new rules being brought in by the Irish Dancing Commission.

The ban also forbids "artificial carriage aids", which help keep the arms straight. A test will be carried out whereby dancers will be asked to raise their arms to shoulder level to ensure they are not using the aids.

The rule changes make no mention of wearing curly wigs, which some performers do.