Written by Rakelle Maurici in Interviews on the 27th February 2018

Celebrity make up artist KSAVI, has a plethora of fruitful work under her belt. Her handywork behind the brush has led her to international runway shows and features in the likes of GQ, Esquire and Vogue, to name but a few. But what does it really take to be a successful make up artist in a demanding industry, whilst juggling children and long hours? We had a chat with KSAVI about where her career path has taken her.

When did you know a career in beauty was for you? 

“I have always loved glamour, fashion and beauty, and knew I was going to do something creative from a really early age.”

What were the early days of your career like? Did it involve a lot of testing? 

“Absolutely, lots and lots of testing, organising shoots, meeting fellow creatives and being on top of it in terms of what was going on in fashion.”  

What's the biggest challenge for you in your career? 

“I guess the biggest jump is being a freelancer at the beginning, hustling and meeting as many people as you can. Also, understanding your aesthetic and working with the right people - and from there, building a body of work you're proud of. Once you nail this, it’s then easier to get the work as it’s all built around relationships. I’ve got some great friends within the industry and outside. Balancing work with motherhood is another challenge, but I’ve found being super organised and a juggler comes in handy.”

You’ve done beautiful work on many big names. Who have you not worked on that you’d love to see in your chair? 

“I would love to work with Nicole Kidman and Meryl Streep; I admire their creativity, passion for what they do, and inspiration behind being a voice and role model to so many of us. Also, someone not here: Princess Diana, I would have loved to do her makeup.” 

How does men's make up differ from women's? 

“Everything is much more raw and vulnerable. As a makeup artist, you may need to groom or shave a man and then apply makeup. I tend to make sure my skincare is on form and then apply concealer, foundation if needed, lip balm and powder.”

How do you communicate with the photographer and stylist about achieving an end result? 

“I always speak to them first thing on a shoot, and usually I’m sent the mood board ahead of time, but I still need to confirm if it’s the same reference pictures and the looks so that I can get on with my work.” 

Any tips for guys out there who would like to start wearing makeup? 

“Do what you feel works for you. Nowadays, there’s acceptance for everyone to wear makeup. There are no rules. Just make sure you cleanse, tone and moisturise the skin properly. And equally, take off the makeup before bed with the same routine.” 

What’s your favourite product that you can't leave home without? 

“I love my Egyptian Magic Cream, Murad Skincare, and not forgetting Chanel's products.”

Guys, would you ever consider using makeup products for men? #makeup

— Menswear Style (@MenswearStyle) February 28, 2018

We put the spotlight on fashion, beauty and runway make up in this interview about the make up artist industry with KSAVI.