Anyone who works in beauty will tell you that it’s a fun, inspiring place, full of creative ideas (and the occasional free sample!), but exactly how do you break into the beauty industry? In this series, we’ll be chatting with beauty industry insiders to find out what their jobs involve and the paths they took to get where they are now.
From makeup artists and beauty editors to social media assistants, brand founders, and web developers – these stories are proof that you can enter the beauty industry via any career path.
Meet Alexx Mayo, makeup artist to Lizzo.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
When I was a child, I wanted to work with sea animals so I guess you can say I wanted to be a marine biologist.
What attracted you to the beauty industry?
I love the idea of transformation, the way it can make people feel. The art of beauty…
What did you study and how did this guide your current role/how do you use the skills from your degree in your job?
When I was in grade school I took every art class I could. I was drawn to charcoal and pastels. Studying this medium has definitely helped me today in terms of shading and contrast.
How did you come to be a makeup artist and what did your career path look like?
I started assisting at a bridal photography studio when I was about 17. I then started working in retail doing makeup at 18, and in my twenties I began doing makeup for small photo shoots. From there, I just kept growing.
What makes your style of artistry unique?
I really keep the client I’m working on in mind and try to make them come to life.The ability to achieve a clean beauty look to the extreme is crucial to my artistry.
What skills and experience do you need to succeed as a makeup artist?
Patience and determination are key! It’s not easy to break into the field, but when you start, it is important to take advantage of every chance you get to do makeup on anyone you can. Never stop creating. It’s also imperative to set goals for yourself.
What does your day-to-day entail?
Being on tour, my day to day routine consists of waking up early and having some me time – whether that be going to a park, doing something outdoors, going to a museum or just utilizing relaxation time. I usually start glam in the early evening which is followed by the show, and after that, the “dethroning” (as we like to call it) which is makeup removal and skincare routine.
What is the best part of your job?
Being able to satisfy my creative side and express myself as an artist.
What has been the most surreal moment of your career so far?
Wow, I’ve been lucky enough to have so many surreal moments, but I would say two of my most memorable moments, were doing makeup for the Met Gala and working on the cover of Elle magazine!
What advice would you give to someone wanting to become a makeup artist?
Don’t follow trends, take risks, mess up, learn from your mistakes, love the beauty in your mistakes. Never stop growing.
What essentials are vital to you doing your job?
I’m a simple person when it comes to essentials, but sparkling water and great lighting are a couple of musts!
What’s your top piece of beauty advice?
Makeup is truly a way to express yourself.
