COSMETICS have been part of human history for centuries, with Queen Cleopatra of Ancient Egypt among the earliest documented users. Today, makeup continues to play a significant role in cultures worldwide, serving as a tool to enhance natural beauty, refine features, or express creativity through artistic designs.
With the rising popularity of makeup, it has evolved into a thriving profession. Makeup artists (MUAs) are skilled artisans whose canvas is the human face and body. Their ability to adapt to various mediums — different appearances and styles — sets them apart in the beauty industry.
In Kuching, two talented MUAs, Joy Liew (25) and Sammi Li (22), have been honing their craft for years. Sharing their experiences, specialties and expert tips, they spoke exclusively with Sarawak Tribune.
ST: Can you share why you chose the makeup industry?
Joy: I’ve always been fascinated by makeup since secondary school. I loved watching YouTube videos of beauty gurus sharing tips and tutorials. However, I was uncertain about my future after finishing Form 5. While my friends had clear plans, I didn’t know what to pursue. After completing my Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) exams in 2017, I worked several part-time retail jobs. It wasn’t until 2019, when my sister’s friend suggested trying makeup professionally, that I considered it. I then enrolled in Le Atelier Fashion and Creative Makeup Studio to learn professional techniques and earn a certification.
Sammi: I’ve loved doing my makeup since I was 15. It’s always been about beautifying myself, even though my mother and sisters weren’t into makeup — I was the odd one out! I knew I wanted to work in the beauty industry because of my strong passion for it. A day after finishing my SPM exams, I signed up for three courses in makeup, facials, and nails.
ST: Who inspired you to become a makeup artist?
Joy: My mum inspired me. She has always appreciated beauty, from makeup to fashion, and her emphasis on looking her best greatly influenced me.
ST: What’s the most challenging makeup you’ve done?
Sammi: My specialty is dramatic and creative makeup styles, like those for Halloween. Surprisingly, I don’t find them difficult. What I find challenging is Korean-style makeup. It requires attention to detail while maintaining a clean, natural look. Achieving a no-makeup look, especially for clients needing high coverage, is particularly tricky.
ST: What do you specialise in?
Joy: After completing my course at Le Atelier, the world entered lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With no weddings or events taking place, I turned to production makeup for films, corporate videos, short films, and music videos. The key difference between bridal or evening makeup and production makeup is the approach. Bridal makeup can take over two hours due to the intricate details, while production makeup is simpler and quicker — usually completed in less than 30 minutes. It’s often natural unless dramatic effects are required.
ST: How do you ensure the products you use are safe for clients?
Joy: I always test products on myself first. I have sensitive skin, so if they don’t cause breakouts, I feel confident using them on clients. Additionally, I research the ingredients, avoiding or minimising the use of potentially harmful ones. I prioritise products with hydrating properties and SPF.
ST: How do you keep up with trends, and what’s popular right now?
Sammi: I stay updated by scrolling through social media platforms, especially Xiao Hong Shu (Red Notes). The current trend is all about clean, natural makeup. Clients want flawless coverage while maintaining a natural appearance. Subtle eye makeup and soft, less bushy brows are also highly favoured.
ST: What are the five essential makeup tools or accessories every artist should have?
Joy: Foundation, moisturiser, eyeliner, eyebrow pencil, and lipstick. These essentials are enough for a polished look. For production jobs, I pack light since we need to carry our kits around, and these five items are the basics.
ST: How do you match different skin tones and types?
Sammi: I carry a variety of foundation shades. If I can’t find an exact match, I mix colours to suit the client’s skin tone. I always apply foundation to the neck as well, ensuring a seamless finish.
ST: Can you share some of your favourite makeup tricks?
Joy: When applying false lashes, I ensure they blend naturally with the client’s real lashes. I use a stick heated briefly to curl the false lashes, making them stay curled longer. For clients with acne or blemishes, I let the concealer sit on the skin for a while before blending. This improves coverage significantly.
Sammi: I always start with eye makeup. Since I specialise in heavy styles, doing the eyes first prevents fallout from ruining the face makeup. It ensures everything looks clean and polished.
