Why I like Kenyan ladies

MARCO LOUIS, 29, MAC’s Resident Senior Makeup Artist (Africa) talks to ROSE KWAMBOKA about his career on making women more beautiful and why he likes Kenyan girls.

What was the inspiration behind becoming a make-up artist?

My love for painting. I have always enjoyed the creative arts for the incredible sense of freedom that comes from creating something on a blank canvas; to me the face is a canvas. The beauty with makeup however is that the wearer can live their lives while wearing your art.

Was being a makeup artist your dream job growing up?

I never really had a specific dream growing up. I knew that I loved to paint, I loved horses and I have always been very social, so working with people came naturally. My job is an extension of my personality. In MAC the family love and DNA nurtures every bit of me. With regard to the horses, let us just say if I can find one and riding is available, you would have to drag me by the ears to leave.

 What is the best part about your job?

Besides working with a phenomenal brand and the world of incredible products, it would have to be the people. While the artists I work with are such a diverse and dynamic group from around the globe, we all share a common love for what we do.

 What is your take on Kenyan women and their relationship with makeup?

Kenyan women are so open to learning. I believe that the lifestyle of makeup will develop really quickly, just as the fashion has. Everyone, I have spoken to really appreciates our insight into modern makeup, and this gives me great gratitude. I will continue to return to Kenya, not only for our MAC teams, but to understand and listen to our customers and give them the support they need to move with these new exciting makeup trends.

 If there was one thing you would change about how women wear makeup, what would it be?

I would not change a thing about makeup, since a woman’s relationship with makeup is a personal one. If you prefer wearing a lot of makeup or wearing next to none, if the result makes you feel great about yourself then do whatever you like. But definitely be open to professional advice. The MAC artists can help you interpret international trends, such as strobing – a contouring trend that involves using makeup products two shades darker and lighter than your skin tone, you make features recede and pop as desired, and give you techniques to make it easy for you at home.

 Still on women, what makeup item should every woman own?

A beautiful lipstick; it speaks volumes of classic femininity. And with such a huge variety there is something to suit any personality.

 What is your favourite part of the makeup routine?

SKIN SKIN SKIN! I love working with great skincare and preparation products, and spend much time perfecting the skin of my clients. The other finishes are just details.

What kind of makeup do you personally like indulging in?

Refining of skin with tinted moisturiser, though I spend a lot of time covering my body in various MAC moisturisers. It gets pricey, but the payoff is worth it.

If you could go back in time, what would you do differently?

I would tell my younger self to calm down. It is tricky as a guy working in any form of art but I now know that because I followed my heart, everything else that I need comes without asking. And my passion for life grows daily.

What is your typical day like?

I go for a run first thing to keep fit, followed by a great cup of coffee and some good music to set the mood for the day, then spend some time at work with my artists which naturally involve makeup, which of course makes me very happy. If my schedule permits, some love, laughs and great company. I would more often than not end my day at dinner with close friends.

What is your opinion on men and makeup?

Many guys are still not open to the idea of wearing makeup since it is very time consuming. I believe that men should spend some time taking care of their skin. So again, moisture is key. And if you have had an interaction with a MAC artist you will know that there are many tricks to looking more refined. This may be in the form of minimal under eye concealer or blot powder. Having it look as natural as possible is key.

What does your marital status read?

Currently very single and happily married to my work.