She has an impressive list of clients including the likes of Pearl Modiadie, Dj Zinhle and Nandi Madida to name a few. We chat to her about her passion for the beauty industry and make-up tips.
Why did you choose this profession?
Make-up is what I’m good at. My passion started at a very young age, I used to watch my mom when she did her own make up and I fell in love with it. I’m not doing it for the money (Even though we all want money), it’s a skill that requires one to be creative. Secondly I chose this profession. I don't see myself doing anything else make-up.
Tell me about your experience as a makeup artist?
I’ve been a make- up artist for almost 3 years now and I’ve learnt a lot from my mentors and my clients as well. I’ve been fortunate and lucky to meet so many people through my work. It has been amazing but challenging too.
How do you determine a client’s undertone before you decide what makeup technique to use?
Firstly you need to start looking at your clients skin to check if the client has different pigments such as yellow and pink .By doing that you're helping yourself to determine exactly what foundation shade to use. This is always a bonus especially when clients want to buy their own make -up. I always say this to my friends and clients, if you can get the right shade for skin tone then you can master everything.
How do you prepare dry and oily skin before applying foundation?
Dry skin lacks oil or moisture. So, when working with someone with dry skin I normally uses a moisturising serum that has more water and less oil in order to seal the surface of the skin. Lastly, you can use primers that are silicone based. The moisture content in oily skin is very high as opposed to dry skin, so when I prep the skin for oily skin I just use the silicone primer and moisturising lotions.
Which major projects have you worked with?
I do a lot of studio make up, weddings, as well as photo shoots for magazines. I’ve worked on well Known TV shows such as Top Actor Africa, The Voice Nigeria, Dancing with the stars South Africa and Top Chef SA . It’s always challenging but I refuse to be discouraged and I always make sure i deliver at all costs.
I have 10 minutes to do my make-up, what can i apply that would make a difference?
Shimmer, Eyeliner, Mascara, Lipstick, Powder And most importantly don’t forget to shape your eyebrows.
What's the biggest challenge make-up artists have to face?
It has to be clients that insists on a lighter or darker shade. That can be challenging especially if the client is dark in complexion but they want to appear lighter. My job is to make sure that the client leaves the makeup chair looking beautiful with all the features being enhanced not with two tone shades. As a professional make-up artist myself I’ve learnt how to work with different skin tones and makeup itself, so my knowledge is much broader and I wish clients would love their skin tones and embrace it.
What are your future plans?
I plan to have my own make up training centre so I can teach young upcoming girls about beauty
For bookings: [email protected]
Instagram: Nelisiwethemakeupartist
