Kelly Paitaki is an award-winning, deeply passionate and immensely creative make-up artist. Here, she reflects
on the reality of her work, and shares her top tips

What are some misconceptions about make-up artists and hair stylists?
That our jobs are easy and glamorous. Apart from practising our craft and constantly staying on top of trends and techniques, we are on our feet for as many as 16 hours a day. Early summer call times and shooting outside on location all day in the gruesome heat and wind is definitely not for the faint-hearted! But I love it – you really need to be passionate and love what you do to survive in this industry. For me it’s the people I meet that make it all worth it. 

What’s your go-to make-up look from day to night?
My everyday work looks are quite basic and natural. Consistent skincare is the base of all make-up looks, so that’s a big priority for me day to day. I do my skincare, sunscreen and tiny bit of foundation applied with my fingers to reduce redness and even out my complexion. Then I finish it off with a tinted eyebrow gel and some mascara. At night, I’ll ramp it up with winged eyeliner or a bright bold red lipstick and lots of mascara! 

Kelly’s make-up bag must-haves will ensure that you create a stunning look every time.

1.  Hydrating prep products
If your skin is not prepped properly, your make-up won’t look as fresh or hold as long as it should. You want your moisturiser and foundation to blend together seamlessly.

2.  Foundation
Foundation that works for your tone, skin type and the climate you live in.  

3. Concealer
Concealer to cover up areas that need some extra love. 

4. Bronzer
Bronzer can make such a big difference. Use it for a sun-kissed look, contour and definition. 

5. Highlighter
Highlighter adds a beautiful glow and lifts areas when used in conjunction with a bronzer. Opt for a cream-based product to elevate the glow and blend easily.

6. Blusher
Peach blusher that can be applied to the apples of your cheeks with your bronzer and also onto your eyelids as a shadow. I love using multi-purpose products.  

7. Brow gel
Eyebrow gel for a natural day look and/or a pencil for more definition or a stronger brow. 

8. Mascara
Wriggle from left and right to make sure all lashes are covered. I spend more time applying mascara than I do anything else.

Words by Stefanie Titus-Petersen