8 Things Your Makeup Artist Wishes You’d Stop Doing

So you’ve decided to go with a makeup artist for your next special event. And while you should be commended for your decision (your best friend will probably be thankful you’re not harassing them to fill in your brows), it’s important to keep a few things in mind before you go. Makeup artists see lots of clients, and because we’re all human there are things clients do time and time again that are downright frustrating. To get the scoop on the subtle sins clients often commit (they’re not as obvious as canceling 10 minutes before, which is just rude), we’ve tapped four top makeup artists who were willing to share the habits they wish clients would leave at the door.

1. Not Taking Care of Your Skin

While makeup can do a lot, it won’t compensate for skimping on your skin care routine. This is one of Lancôme Makeup Artist Marwah Kamas’ biggest pet peeves, who works behind the counter and sees different clients regularly. A solid skin care routine is the foundation of a smooth, flawless finish so it’s important you take care of your base (read: don’t sleep in your makeup). Washing and moisturizing your face before your appointment is a must — and important for getting the most out of any complexion product. While everyone’s skin is different and some may have more problem areas than others, clean skin is essential whether you’re oily, dry or somewhere in between.

2. Not Wanting to Try New Things

A major pain point for both Lancôme MUA Olivia Thompson and Maybelline MUA Gabriel Almodovar is clients who aren’t willing to shake it up once they get in their chairs. “Why come to me? We should do something fun and different that she normally wouldn’t do or buy,” says Almodovar, who is all about trying new things. The point of going to a professional is to get schooled on the different ways you can improve your makeup routine and learn a few pro tips and tricks along the way. Just because your favorite influencer bakes their concealer and you do too doesn’t mean a MUA will say the same. Go in with an open mind, and have fun!

 

3. Coming in With Makeup On

MUA’s are called artists for a reason, so it’s important that you’re (nearly) bare faced so they can see what they have to work with. It also cuts down on time says Thompson, who, as a behind the counter artist can see an endless stream of clients within a day.

4. Keeping Quiet About Allergies and Sensitivities

Makeup artists are experts at the products they keep in their kits, so they’re aware of the kinds of things that can irritate certain skin types and skin issues. Even though they’re skilled, they’re not mind readers, so you have to be your biggest advocate in the chair.

 

5. Excessive Eye Contact

This might seem like a weird one because it’s natural to stare at someone who’s only a few inches from your face — but this can actually make your artist’s life more difficult. Looking directly at your makeup artist while they try to blend a shadow or curl your lash makes application hard and potentially messy. Dermablend artist Andrew Velasquez has an easy fix: “Just look down.”

6. Showing Up Late

This one goes without saying, but being on time to your appointment is crucial. Budget a few extra minutes to find parking, check in, etc. The more prompt you are, the quicker you can jump into doing the thing you came there for. It also sets you and your artist off on the right foot — being on time shows that you respect your artist’s time, effort and artistry.

 

7. Not Researching Your Artist

In the age of social media, finding a makeup artist is easier than ever (#makeupartist has millions of posts), so it’s important you do your due diligence. Every artist has their own unique style of makeup, and while many are versatile, it’s something to take into account (you might not want to hire and SFX artist to do your wedding, for example) when choosing someone for your next event. The closer a makeup artist’s work is to the final product you desire, the happier you’ll be.

8. Not Communicating What You Want

A smoky eye to you and a smoky eye to a makeup artist can mean two completely different things. To avoid miscommunication, come ready with pictures — they really do say a thousand words.

Read more

Loading
Back to top