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In the quest for GLAM perfection, it always helps to ask the expert! We’ve pinned down Stephanie Neofitou in order to learn the tricks of the trade of a working Make Up Artist.
1. What inspired you to decide to work in the beauty industry?
I have loved makeup since I was a child, and started experimenting with it when I was at school. I finished school and knew that I wanted to study and work in the industry.
2. What do you love most about your job?
I get to meet some amazing people, and I get to paint a new canvas every time I do someone’s makeup. There is no better feeling than when my clients look in the mirror and love what they see.
3. Where did you learn all your tricks of the trade?
It takes years to learn all the tricks of the trade, and you never stop learning as new trends continue to emerge. I learnt a lot during my training at MAC – everyone there has their own style and we all fed off and learned from each other.
4. Which three products are always in your handbag?
I never go without lipstick, lip-gloss and powder. My faves are:
1. MAC Be Fabulous lipstick (R260) – a pale pink lipstick that goes with everything.
2. MAC Saint Germain lip-gloss (R175) – another versatile pale pink lip fix.
3. MAC Prep + Prime Transparent Finishing Powder (R260) – it sets my makeup and reduces shine
5. What is your go-to remedy for dry winter skin?
Once or twice a week I apply a moisture mask. I love Clarins HydraQuench Cream-Mask (R445 for 75ml). I also love Clarins’ Energising range, including the Cleansing Gel (R124 for 75ml), Energizer Wake Up Toner (R200 for 125ml) and Daily Energizer Cream (R225 for 30ml).
6. Which three make-up products should we be splurging on?
1. A great foundation. My favourite at the moment is Smashbox Studio Skin 15 Hour Wear Hydrating Foundation (R420). It’s used primarily for photo shoots and gives great coverage.
2. Blush. I love MAC Warm Soul Mineralizer (R300) because it has a slight shimmer that gives you a warm glow.
3. Illuminator. My all-time favourite MAC’s Soft and Gentle (R350).
7. Which three products is it best to save on?
There are so many amazing and affordable products on the market. You can generally opt for budget-friendly mascara, bronzer and lipsticks. For example, I love Maybelline One by One Volum’ Express Mascara (R104) for fierce long lashes at a budget-friendly price.
8. What is your go-to mood-lifter?
Shopping for makeup is always a mood-lifter for me, and putting on a great lipstick always makes me feel better.
9. Which makeup trends will you be rocking this season?
Winter 2015 is all about perfect skin, so I’ve been rocking the bare face look. It’s all about creating very natural, dewy-looking skin with loads of mascara and a warm deep lip. Black liner is also very hot right now. I pile it on in the water line and smudge it out with my fingers. You can do it with any kohl liner; I like MAC Feline (R195).
Which makeup products can’t you live without this Winter? Let us know below…