Whether it was Jessica Chastain’s vintage Hollywood look at the premiere of It Chapter Two that caught your fancy or Millie Bobby Brown’s fresh dewy skin from the premiere of Godzilla: King of the Monsters you have been trying to decode, it’s time to meet the creative powerhouse behind those gorgeous looks. Los Angeles-based makeup artist, Kelsey Deenihan is a big hit amongst celebrities for her innovative and experimentative approach. She discovered her passion for makeup and beauty at a young age, but chanced upon it as a career option. There has been no looking back ever since. Kelsey wears multiple hats, be it her A-list clientele, editorials, or advertising campaigns. Also, she was recently roped in by Lorac Cosmetics as the brand’s first ever artistry adviser. We speak to the makeup maverick to learn about her journey, love for the craft, and more. Edited excerpts…
Were you always inclined towards makeup?
I always enjoyed doing my friend’s makeup but never realized it could be a career until my friends father (who was in the entertainment industry) told me. I was so excited to learn I could turn something I enjoyed doing into a career
I did a short stint at a makeup school, but was more interested in learning about the business side of things rather than the technique side.
“Work with your natural brow shape and hair growth, and then build from there. Don’t try to copy someone’s brows that you don’t have.”
Where do you seek creative inspiration from? Who are your muses?
I seek creative inspiration from everything, especially art and fashion. I don’t have any specific muses, but everyone I work with becomes a muse to me. Every time is something different and they inspire me to create and be different.
How has the beauty industry changed globally?
The industry has changed a lot from being serious and old school to new artists coming on the block with a more fun and modern approach to makeup without any ‘rules’. It’s a very interesting time to be in the industry.
Inclusivity is the flavour of the season. How do you think it has changed the course of makeup industry?
Inclusivity is something that has been lacking in the industry for a long time. I think it’s finally going in the right direction. ‘Nude is not beige’ and I think the makeup brands and industry, as a whole, is finally realising this.
Do you think social media has impacted the global beauty industry? What are the pros and cons in your opinion?
Social media has had a huge impact on where people look for inspiration and also go to see their favourite celebrities or looks on a daily basis. I think the pros are that it gives us a direct access to brands, fans and people wanting to know what we used on celebrities, but the con is that it can be misleading. Young people are hooked to the final product or look and appeal of things and tend to ignore the reality. It’s not always as glamorous as it all looks.
What are your go-to products in makeup?
Suqqu extra rich cream foundation, La Prairie cream blush, Chanel tan de soleil, Clé de Peau Beauté concealer, Dior show brow pencils and Charlotte Tilbury pressed powder are some of my favourites.
What are the trends for summer that you are betting big on?
Gloss is back. Dewy skin is here to stay, but not shimmery or glittery, just glowy.
What according to you has caused the shift from “matte look” to “dewy skin”?
I think, now people want to look more natural, fresh and not so ‘made-up’. Makeup is no more about layering products to hide your flaws. It is now about the bigger picture-embracing the real self and bringing out your best version.
Brows have taken the centrestage. Please share a few hacks to nail the shape?
Work with your natural shape and hair growth, and then build from there. Don’t try to copy someone’s brows that you don’t have.
How will you define your personal makeup look?
It is usually a clean look with a punch.
How important is skincare for better application of makeup?
Skincare is almost more important than makeup. There is only so much you can do without a good base/canvas. It is crucial to follow a care regime, balanced diet, exercise and drink lots of water for skin that glows inside out.
How is it to work with the A-listers of Hollywood and fashion including, Reese Witherspoon, Millie Bobby Brown, Jennifer Garner, Cara Delevingne, among others?
It is always a great experience to work with such inspirational and strong women. I’ve learned a lot from them.
What are the most common mistakes of makeup application?
The most common blunder people tend to make is picking the wrong foundation colour or formula for their skin. It is always advisable to wear the product for a few hours before.
What to expect in beauty for this season?
Fresh dewy skin with a darker matte lip will be the go-to look of the season.
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