A BEAUTY INFLUENCER

interview

IInstagram and makeup artists go together like chocolate chips and mint ice cream – they’re a match made in beauty heaven. Over the years, many makeup artists have amassed massive followers on the social media platform because of their forward-thinking techniques, incredible pictures, and celebrity clients.

“I was always that cousin or friend who would do makeup on family weddings or any other function in the family,” says Falaq Shahid, a budding makeup artist who gained popularity on social media with her amazing makeup skills. She started her blog page in 2016 with her sister in Lahore. Initially, she started with product reviews and makeup tutorials. She had been working in the corporate sector so she was able to utilise her degree while managing her blog on the side. Professionally, she started taking makeup courses after her marriage and moved to Islamabad because she wanted to have an alternate career path. This week, she talks to You! about being a makeup artist in the digital era and how the industry has found a shift with the influence of social media…

You! Where did you get your training?

Falaq Shahid: I have taken multiple courses and classes but I learned the most when I took an in person course by Natasha’s Salon, Karachi.

You! What do you love most about makeup?

FS: Its ability to transform your features and create something unique and personal. Most people do makeup for themselves not for others, so I love how it’s a creative outlet for me!

You! How has the beauty business changed here since you began?

FS: When I started, there was no concept of brand campaigns and getting appointments via Instagram, however, the industry changed somewhere in 2018-19 and a lot of makeup artists and content creators started getting traction. We have so many Pakistani brands coming out with great products now. International brands can easily be sourced through online businesses. Businesses have realised the power of social media marketing and are willing to have separate SM campaigns budgets. Freelancers are more prominent and favoured by customers all over Pakistan because their skills are on par or sometimes better from traditional parlours who have maintained a monopoly for years.

You! What famous artists have influenced you, and how?

FS: I love Brazilian makeup artists’ style of makeup. It has heavily influenced my eye makeup and use of colours. If I get the chance, I’d love to visit Brazil and learn from their artists.

You! What is your favourite celebrity makeup look and why?

FS: There isn’t really one. But I love clean skin with striking/shimmery eyes.

You! Name three Holy Grail drugstore and high-end products that you absolutely love.

FS: In high-end, the Danessa Myricks Beauty Balm Contour, Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Powders and Too Faced Born This Way Concealer. In drugstore, NYX Cosmetics Loose Glitter, L’Oreal Infallible Concealer and Essence Lash Princess Mascara.

You! What are your favourite makeup tools to work with?

FS: A small beauty blender and good eye brushes. Absolute essentials!

You! What are your 3 beauty dos and don’ts?

FS: Dos; Skincare comes before makeup. Invest in good skincare and your makeup will always look flawless. Choose good quality natural looking lenses for your events. Research about products before buying them.

Don’ts; Do not get facials/peels/waxing done right before an important event. Get them done 7-10 days before. Don’t sleep with your makeup on.

You! Are brides these days more experimental when it comes to makeup?

FS: Most brides pick safe looks and want to stay in browns, soft pink, gold or silver. I adored ’80s fashion where brides would have 3 bright colours on the eyes. I love brides who are ready to take risks and are experimental with their looks.

You! What is your biggest challenge while doing bridal makeup?

FS: I am blessed to have great clients but time management can be an issue at times. When brides are late, it creates a lot of pressure, disturbs the whole schedule and work becomes a burden instead of being fun.

You! How would you describe your signature look?

FS: I incorporate colour in bridal makeup which I feel most artists shy away from.

You! How do you prep the skin before applying makeup on a client?

FS: I always clean the skin with micellar water. A good moisturiser is absolutely essential. Secondly, a lightweight face oil and then a primer.

You! What techniques do you use when applying foundation?

FS: Having an open conversation with the client so that they know what can be done and what can’t be done is the key. If they want full coverage, I’d go with a matte heavy foundation like Huda Beauty, if they want a glowy finish, I’d go with something like the Nar’s Sheer Glow Foundation.

You! Suggest some tips to have your makeup last longer.

FS: Use a foundation that is made for your skin type. Keep a small fan with you if you sweat on the face and always set/bake with translucent powder.

You! I have five minutes to do my makeup—what can I do that would make the most difference?

FS: Mascara, lip and cheek tint with a little bit of concealer for spot concealing. Also, if I have an extra couple of minutes, I’d pop on a light lash because…why not?

You! What style and colours do you prefer working with when doing eye makeup?

FS: I am a huge fan of glitters and pigments. I love using blue, green, purple, pink and peach in my looks. Glittery colourful looks have become my signature.

You! For hooded eyes, what would you suggest to make their eye makeup pop?

FS: I’d suggest them to: Practice smokey eyes and add shimmers all over the lid. Stay away from glitter. Wear lenses and lashes to make your eyes appear more open.

You! What lip colours are in-vogue nowadays?

FS: Ombré lips and glossy lips are all the rage these days and I love both styles!

You! What are three common mistakes women tend to make while doing their makeup?

FS: Choosing the wrong undertone in their foundation and not applying anything on the neck. Also, overdoing the blush for a rosy look but not blending it out.

You! Suggest a proper skin care regimen for all makeup enthusiasts?

FS: My sincere advice would be to not to wear a full face of makeup every day. If you must, go with a lightweight oil free bb or cc creams. You must have a 2 step makeup removing regimen to keep your skin in good condition. First take off makeup with an oil cleanser and then use bio derma micellar water as the second step. Then wash your face, moisturise, add a serum and retinol/Vitamin C/AHAs or niacinamide in your routine.

You! What is the most important beauty advice that you can give to women?

FS: Embrace yourself and be confident in your skin.

You! Do you have any tips or advice for aspiring makeup artists?

FS: Keep practicing new techniques. Invest in good products and always learn from your makeup mistakes.

You! What are your plans for the future (do you plan to collaborate with brands)?

FS: I am just riding the wave. I want to have a full-fledged makeup studio but considering the current economic situation in the country, I will stay home-based for a while. I want to include fashion and travel content in my blog too because I love both as much as makeup.