Interview: Jenny Duong | PR Manager @ Feelunique.com

Feelunique.com is, by far, by favourite online beauty destination. It stocks an incredible number of brands - including niche faves - and is packed with interesting content and offers. It is the OG of online beauty retail and will forever be my go-to site when I'm in need of a skincare or makeup fix. Everyone at feelunique.com HQ is pretty dope but one of my favourites is Jenny Duong, Senior PR & Communications Manager.

I recently got the chance to grill Jenny on everything from her career highlights to beauty must-haves! Here's how it went down...

Interview: Claire Vero | Founder Of Aurelia

Global pharmaceutical and dermatology expert Claire Vero knows a thing or two about skincare. Having had an successful career at GlaxoSmithKline, one of the world’s leading global pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare companies, Claire was inspired to create Aurelia, a scientific, BioOrganic, age preventative skincare line. If you haven't experienced Aurelia by now, you really need to!

I recently got the chance to grill Claire on all things hair and beauty. Here's how it went down...

Interview: Charlotte Tilbury | MUA

There is not a beauty fan around that hasn't heard of Charlotte Tilbury. If there is, I expect them to hand in their title immediately.

Charlotte Tilbury is a world renowned makeup artist who is queen of the smoky eye and owner of one of the world's hottest beauty brands, Charlotte Tilbury. She has beautified the likes of Kate Moss, Rihanna, Penelope Cruz and Jennifer Lopez and has worked with Vogue, Vanity Fair and V to name but a few. If that wasn't enough, Charlotte Tilbury has also worked on high-profile fashion shows such as Tom Ford, Donna Karan, Missoni and Michael Kors.

Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd get the opportunity to interview Queen Tilbury but I did! Here's how it went down...

Interview: Claudia Winkleman

Some of you may not know this, but Claudia Winkleman has been busy creating a limited edition beauty collection with Marks & Spencer. The new beauty gift range, simple called Claudia, will feature every product you need to create the much-loved presenter's signature look; dark smoky eyes, nude lips and uber-glossy hair. It will include a series of beauty essentials, from the 'Freakishly Good Hair' set and 'Use More, Literally Loads' panda eye set, to the 'Let's Go' lip set and 'First Base' lip balm.

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting Claudia. She showed off the new collection, shared her beauty secrets and let me give her a good grilling...

Interview: Justine Jenkins

Justine Jenkins is a celebrity makeup artist and cruelty free ambassador. Also known as JJ, her amazing work has graced the pages of Harper's Bazaar, Marie Claire and Grazia and the faces of Fearne Cotton, Laura Whitmore and Elizabeth Moss.

JJ has racked up 15 years in the industry and is a regular BBC Radio 1 Beauty Expert, as well as a beauty writer and Huffington Post columnist. So you can understand how excited I was when she kindly gave up her time to talk to me about all things beauty. We talked industry success, beauty tips and the classic beauty crime...

What inspired you to work in the beauty industry? And how did your career journey begin?

I'd worked my way up in the City to become a stock market dealer, however - since the age of 17 - I had secretly yearned to be a makeup artist. I got to my late 20's and just said to myself, 'it's now or never'. Something took over and I had this laser point focus. Luckily a chance encounter led me to meet a wonderful film makeup artist who took me under her wing. I was still working in the City at the time, so I used all of my annual holiday leave to work as her trainee on the most wonderful film sets. I went from feeling despondent in a job that I knew wasn't for me, to feeling elated being on set of a Tim Burton movie.

Interview: Indie Lee

In my two short year's of beauty reporting, I've had the pleasure of meeting many inspirational women in the industry, from makeup artists and scientists to CEOs and journalists. However, of all the amazing women I've met, Indie Lee has to be my favourite.

Indie Lee's brand was born out of a brain tumour diagnosis, which, in itself, is pretty inspiring - especially when she considers the tumour to be the "best thing that's ever happened to her". However, that is not why I consider her to be one of the best beauty industry leaders. It is her passionate, funny and incredibility positive spirit that makes her special and her energy is infectious. I walked away from a recent meeting with Indie feeling as though everything I want from life is achievable. If you're ever feeling low or short of inspiration, I urge you to check out Indie's blog.

During our meeting, Indie was kind enough to let me interview her for thebeautyinfomrer.com. So, as you can imagine, I grilled her life, beauty and, of course, Indie Lee...

What inspired you to work in the beauty industry? And how did your career journey begin?

In 2008, I was diagnosed with an environmentally-derived brain tumor and had to undergo major, life-threatening surgery to have it removed. It was a huge wakeup call for me as to how I was living my life. I thought I was healthy, but I had this tumor that was said to have been caused by environmental toxins. It didn’t make sense to me until my doctors told me that it could have been something as simple as what I was putting on my skin day in and day out. After I woke up from surgery, I set out on a new path: To educate others on the beauty choices they make and start my own collection of eco-chic skincare for face and body.

Interview: Mordechai Alvow

During a recent trip to NYC, I was fortunate enough to visit the Yarok Beauty Kitchen and meet Yarok's fabulous founder, Mordechai Alvow.

In addition to creating one of the world's best organic haircare brands (available at yarokhair.com and abeautifulworld.co.uk), the sought-after hair stylist has worked with numerous designers, photographers and celebrities. His work has graced the pages of Allure, ELLE, InStyle, Marie Claire and VOGUE (to name but a few), and his celebrity clients include the likes of Melania Trump, Naomi Watts and Vanessa Lachey.

Mordechai founded Yarok out of a desire to create organic haircare products that perform as well as their synthetic ingredient-packed counterparts. He succeeded in his mission and, today, Yarok offers a variety of haircare products that are not only organic and safe to apply, but provide amazing results and smell amazing.

I am a huge fan of Yarok, so you can imagine how excited I was to chat all things hair and beauty with Mordechai...

What inspired you to work in the hairdressing industry? And how did your career journey begin?

To give you a bit of background on how I grew up… I was born in Israel in a city called Jaffa. Jaffa was also known as the city of oranges and everyday I woke up across from an orange grove. It fragranced the air and I always felt lucky that it was my scenery.

Interview: Tata Harper

Right now, Tata Harper is one of the most talked about names in the natural beauty industry. She started her skincare brand, Tata Harper, with a mission to redefine the beauty industry. Her aim was to create results-driven beauty products that are free of industrial synthetics and potentially toxic chemicals. In order to do this she embarked on a four-year journey, discovering the most potent and effective ingredients from around the globe and consulting with the world's top botanists, chemists and beauty experts.

Her journey ended with the creation of Tata Harper, a highly effective and luxurious skincare brand that treats skin issues and provides real anti-ageing results. The brand is adorned by green goddesses and beauty editors alike; even Gwyneth Paltrow, Christy Turlington and Julianne Moore are fans!

Fortunately for me, Tata took some time out of her ridiculously busy schedule to talk to all things beauty...

What inspired you to work in the beauty industry? And how did your career journey begin?

I never imagined I would become a beauty entrepreneur, however it happened out of a passion to create truly natural, totally non-toxic skincare products that actually worked and delivered amazing results. I was inspired to go all natural with the products in my life when my stepfather was diagnosed with cancer about ten years ago. During his treatment and recovery process I learned a lot about toxic load, including the potential health repercussions of being exposed to synthetic chemicals in personal care products. These are products we use twice a day for our whole lives - I was shocked to discover they weren't as safe as I thought they were.

During my search for natural replacements for everything I used, I couldn't find high performance anti-ageing skincare that was truly all natural, so I decided to make it myself.

What is your career highlight?

I'm constantly travelling to meet customers and clients. Each time I meet someone who uses our products, they are thrilled with the results and are so grateful they discovered us - that is always big highlight for me. It's inspiring and it makes me so happy about what I do and what our products do for women's wellness and beauty. I love to make women beautiful!

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in the beauty industry?

To be very, very passionate about your mission. Passion will make you stand out from the crowd and give you the energy to carry the project where it needs to go. Making it in this industry is all about sticking to your vision, knowing what makes you totally unique and finishing what you start!

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

There are so many beauty icons from each era, however my ultimate beauty icon is my mother.

What are your makeup bag essentials?

I don't use very much makeup day to day. However I always have my Hydrating Floral Essence on-hand, for a refreshing hydration boost when my skin is feeling dry. I also use my Be Adored - a tinted lip treatment that I wear every day. Sometimes I apply it to my cheeks to add colour.

What is the biggest beauty crime a person can commit?

Going to sleep without washing off your makeup! Free radicals, from pollution that you're exposed to throughout the day, remain on your skin and trapped in your makeup. Cleansing the skin each night is essential for it to fully recover and refresh itself as you sleep.

What is your top beauty tip?

This sounds cliché but my top beauty tip is to drink lots of water and eat well. About a third of what we eat goes directly to nourish our skin - so what we put in our bodies really affects how we look. A good anti-ageing skincare routine should be complemented with great food and lots of water, as dehydrated skin is more prone to fine lines, wrinkles and dullness. So drink up & enjoy your fruits and veggies!

www.tataharperskincare.com

Interview: Rupert Kingston

Rupert Kingston has spent years in the makeup industry, working with amazing beauty brands, high profile celebrities and numerous magazines. He is not only an established makeup artist, but the Creative Director and Co-Founder of the new British beauty brand everyone is talking about. Yes, you guessed it ... Delilah.

Like most girls across the UK, I have fallen in love with Delilah (I'm actually obsessed with the brand's foundation and blusher!). So I was very excited when I got the chance to chat all things beauty with Rupert...

What inspired you to work in the beauty industry? And how did your career journey begin?

I came from a painting and drawing background and was really inspired by theatrical makeup. Very early on (for a GCSE art project) I wanted to experiment with body painting, so I took a trip to London to visit Screenface. Walking into that little shop in Notting Hill was just inspiring, I bought some water based body paint and a bruise wheel (makeup for creating bruises); from then on I pursued a career in makeup!

I trained at the London College of Fashion in the early 90s, as it was one of the only makeup courses in Europe at the time. Once qualified I worked in television for a while, however it was only when I joined a creative agency that things really started to take off.

Interview: Rachel Kavanagh

Let me introduce you to Rachel Kavanagh, the Managing Director of Glossybox UK & Ireland. For those who don't know, Glossybox is the number one beauty subscription box in the UK... it is also one of my favourites! Since Rachel joined Glossybox, the brand has seen significant growth, as well as some amazing, limited edition partnerships. Her inspiring career success shows that Rachel packs brains, as well as beauty!

Luckily for me, I got the opportunity to grill Rachel on all things business and beauty. We discussed everything from Rachel's career history to her top beauty tips...

What inspired you to work in the beauty industry? And how did your career journey begin?

I had my first beauty business at 18, manufacturing and selling clip in hair extensions. Beauty was then a natural path for me after I left college. I discovered a game-changing tanning product in the US and approached the manufacturer with the intent to produce my own line. I developed and launched a retail and professional tanning brand in 2007, which won ten beauty awards in two years!

Interview: Dr Ayee-Marie McGrath

Two weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting Dr Ayee-Marie McGrath, the smart, empowered and passionate co-owner of Knightsbridge Dental Care. Now, I love meeting successful women - especially those who keep their femininity intact and strive in a industry packed full of male ownership.

Ayee-Marie is knowledgeable about dentistry and is a big fan of all things beauty (I mean, just look at her!). For these reasons, I just had to interview her for this series. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our little chat...

What inspired you to work in the dental industry? And how did your career journey begin?

I knew from the age of 14 that I would like to be in the medical profession, either medicine or dentistry. I had always been fascinated with how the human body functions and heals, and biology classes sparked the curiosity further.

I left home at 14, so I had a tough start. I took a dental nursing job on the weekends, to earn some money while trying to further my studies, and this cemented my path into dentistry. I knew I wanted to study this at university and that it would provide me with the lifestyle that I wanted, I only had myself to rely on and worked my backside off to get the grades to go to medical school.

What is your career highlight?

The day I got my A-levels results, enabling me to go and study at university. I will never forget every sensation, sight and sound of that day. It was like I won the golden ticket to visit the Chocolate Factory. The rest is history, I never looked back.

My second highlight would be that I was one of the only women to get a post graduate master’s degree in Dental Implantology and Surgery.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in the dental industry?
The advice I would give any empowered lady wanting to launch her career is, 'believe fully in yourself! You CAN do it'. Don’t listen to anything anyone tells you, just believe in yourself and go forth - that tiny voice inside your soul is never wrong, so honour it.

When it comes to medicine and dentistry, it’s now so competitive with universities only taking the elite, that you have to work hard and get the grades. Also, get as much work experience in reputable hospitals and clinics as you can - this will give you the edge.

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

I have to be honest and say it's Jennifer Lopez in modern times. She is flawless and empowered, she is a great businesswoman, she always looks amazing and she keeps getting better with age!! Outdoing all of her younger contemporaries - I take my hat off to anyone who can sit in a selfie with Cara Delevingne and Rita Ora and steal the show.

What are your makeup bag essentials?

1. Bobbi Brown Corrector!!! OMG miracle product!
2. The Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Even Finish Compact Foundation is so lovely. It gives a gorgeous glow, provides non-cakey coverage and you can keep topping up with it if you need to
3. MAC Blusher in Peaches
4. Lancôme Le Crayon Khôl Eyeliner - this is the best eyeliner I've tried, no other brown liner comes close
5. I usually wear the L’Oreal Glam Shine gloss but I recently fell in love with No7 High Shine Lipgloss with SPF15. It is non-sticky, very moisturising and provides the right hint of colour
6. My newest mascara find, the Maybelline Big Eyes Volume Express Mascara
7. Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Bronzing Powder

What is the biggest beauty crime a person can commit?

Yellow teeth of course!!! Yellow, discoloured teeth are very ageing and there is no need for it in this day and age. The second biggest beauty crime is bad eyebrows!!!

What is your top beauty tip?

Keep your smile - your signature - in top condition; always schedule regular hygienist visits and ask for the amazing salt cleaning hygiene technique. High powered small salt particles are used to clean the tooth surfaces gently, removing all fine staining which leaves them sparkling white when you come to make that first impression!

www.knightsbridgedental.co.uk

Interview: Gemma Wheatcroft

Gemma Wheatcroft is an amazing makeup artist whose work spans TV, editorial, fashion and celebrity. She has recently been named the official makeup artist for the new, much anticipated, Rodial Makeup Range. I got the opportunity to catch up with her last week, discussing everything from her favourite makeup products to her top beauty tips. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our little chat...

What inspired you to become a makeup artists? And how did your career journey begin?

I consider myself an artist but my love of fashion and beauty became my passion when I started an art foundation in fashion and textiles. This passion grew as I completed an HND in fashion styling for hair and makeup at the prestigious London College of Fashion in 1999!

A natural talent and dedication inspired me to start assisting within the industry. It is here that I learnt some amazing techniques, gained invaluable tips and learnt some of the trades top beauty secrets! This allowed me to develop my own style and flare and, eventually, work with some of the industries greats!

What is your career highlight?

My career highlight is that I love my work! Travelling and meeting interesting and inspiring personalities. I must say I'm really enjoying working with Rodial and the brand's founder and Creative Director, Maria Hatzistefanis, on this exciting new makeup range. Seeing my work (on the new celebrity campaign) in full colour, in-stores, online and in the world's press, is 'the dream'.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in the beauty industry?

My advice is simple, 'always say yes'. Yes to assisting, yes to low or no budget jobs, yes to staying until the bitter end of a 18 hour music video, yes to cleaning brushes, making tea, running errands, yes to test photographers and student fashion shows, yes to getting to and from jobs yourself and yes to last minute requests. You will learn so much from saying yes....on set etiquette, industry lingo, who's who, hands on experience, in-house secrets and behind the scenes tips.

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

Bridgette Bardot! Her effortless and timeless beauty makes me unable take my eyes off of her. I often use her signature cat eye, sculpted cheekbones, sultry pout and tousled 'I woke up like this' hairstyles as inspiration for some of my celebrity red carpet and editorial looks.

What are your beauty kit essentials?

My makeup bag essentials, for quick day to night touch ups, are the Rodial Instaglam Magic Pen Eye Glow for instant 'wake up skin' highlighting and glow - nice on the cheek bones, Cupid's bow and great on the lids - and the Rodial Instaglam Magic Pen Corrector, to touch up under the eyes and conceal imperfections and blemishes.

I also have to have the Rodial Smokey Eye Pen in black to give me a quick, smudge free smokey cats eye and the Rodial Glamolash Mascara Skinny, to add extra flutter to my lashes! I also have a good brow gel to keep my eyebrows perfect all day and, without a doubt, the Rodial Glamstick in bite - a perfect nude that is like a lip balm, lipstick and gloss in one...the perfect tone and finish!

Daisy Lowe, the face of the new Rodial Makeup Range, rocking Gemma's favourite products

What is the biggest beauty crime a person can commit?

Over-plucking your eyebrows......please let them grow!!! It's all about full, natural and bushy brows! They are the coat hangers to your face, after all!

What is your top beauty tip?

Use a good primer to hydrate and smooth your skin before applying makeup. This will help your makeup adhere to the skin and last longer, as well as boost radiance and plump the skin's surface, diffusing fine lines and moisturising dry areas of the skin for a more even and polished looking finish to your foundation! You will also find that powder products sit better on the skin and won't cake or streak. Your brushes will also glide over the skin, allowing you to buff and blend with ease.

Daisy Lowe is the UK Ambassador for Rodial Make-up. Rodial Make-up launches into Harvey Nichols from 7th November and on-line at rodial.co.uk.

Interview: Tania Grier

Tania Grier is a British makeup artist who has worked with everyone. In addition to beautifying the likes of Laura Bailey, Daisy Lowe and Yasmin Le Bon, Tania's editorial work includes Vanity Fair, Harper's Bazaar, Tatler and Grazia.

So you can imagine how excited I was when I got the opportunity to grill Tania about all things beauty...

What inspired you to become a makeup artist? And how did your career journey begin?

The photographer Nick Haddow inspired me to become a makeup artist. I had been living in New York for a few years, studying and working as an actress in theatre and independent films. When I came back to London, Nick suggested that I learn another craft so I would have something to fall back on. He knew I enjoyed painting (I had considered art school at one point) so he thought I might enjoy makeup - another form of art. So I started assisting Sarah Reygate and followed her everywhere for two years until I gradually got my own work. 

What is your career highlight?

It's hard to choose just one. Working with the legendary Julie Christie for Chanel was memorable, she is still as beautiful today as she was in Doctor Zhivago. 

However, my ultimate highlight would have to be shooting Vanessa Redgrave for Harper's Bazaar with the amazing photographer Trent McGinn. She takes your breath away with her beauty and presence and she is one of the smartest, humble and most talented women I have ever met. I love working with the more mature celebrities - they have the best stories and, because they don't have to prove anything, they have a confidence that is electric. Any decent make up artist can make an eighteen year old model look good, it's harder to make older skin radiate. But I enjoy the challenge and it's always more interesting to be in the presence of someone who has lived a little and Vanessa has lived a lot!!! 

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

For me, it's my Mum. She was a model when she was younger, however she never wore much make up as she was a natural beauty. She studied at Glasgow Art School and one day Sean Connery turned up as a nude model (before he was cast as James Bond of course!). He fancied my Mum and used to chase her around the building asking for a date but she said no every time. Life could have been very different if she'd said yes!!! 

She is my ultimate beauty icon because she has never had a stitch of surgery but looks 15 years younger than she should because she takes care of her skin and enjoys life. I do hope she has passed those genes on to me! 

What are your beauty kit essentials?

There are four products that I can't work without. The first is Antipodes Saviour Skin Balm, a natural beauty balm that can be used on cuticles, knees, sunburn...anywhere on the face or body - everyone I use it on is obsessed! The second product is the MAC Blacktrack Fluid Eyeliner; I use it daily for anything from a thin lash line to a very graphic eye. The third product I can't live without is Optrex Eye Drops - I have one for bloodshot eyes, one for itchy eyes and one for tired eyes. These eye drops are perfect for jet lagged models, as well as a million other daily dramas! The final product is the MAC Face and Body Foundation. It makes the legs look flawless and it's waterproof so you can wear it out and not worry about it rubbing off on your clothes.

Dermalogica skincare is always in my kit as it is great for sensitive skin. Dior Nude Skin foundations are my favourite for a luminous glow, Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer is my go-to for hiding spots and Chanel mascaras are my favourite as they have great brushes and are the blackest of blacks. 

What is the biggest beauty crime a person can commit?

Wearing too much! My motto is less is more. There is nothing worse than seeing a young girl with good skin caked in layers of foundation and clumpy mascara.

What is your top beauty tip?

Moisturise moisturise moisturise, preferably with an SPF, and don't forget the neck, décolletage and body. Your skin will thank you for it when you get older. Also love the skin you are in, as beauty really does start from within. I have worked on some truly stunning girls but if they are too vain or have low self esteem, you don't appreciate their beauty. You look your best when you are happy and confident.

You can follow Tania on Twitter - @TaniaGrier and Instagram - taniagrier.

Interview: Millie Kendall MBE

The beauty industry has not been short of inspiring, successful women - Estée Lauder, Helena Rubinstein and Bobbi Brown to name but a few. However there is one woman with such beauty balls that her contribution to the cosmetics industry was recognised with an MBE. This woman, my dear readers, is none other than Millie Kendall.

Many of you will know Millie as the co-founder of the much-loved British beauty brand, Ruby & Millie. However, in addition to launching her own brands, Millie has been a strong force behind the success of many other global beauty brands, such as Shu Uemura and Aveda. 

Millie is now the co-founder of BeautyMART and the creative director of haircare brand Concoctions. So, as one of Millie's biggest fans, I was extremely grateful (and ridiculously excited) when she agreed to let me grill her on everything from her career highlight to her top beauty tip...

What inspired you to work in the beauty industry? And how did your career journey begin? 

It's a very long story, I have worked for everyone and done everything in my industry pretty much. My Dad is a hairdresser and he just told me to "get a job" so I did. Starting with Toni & Guy to Bumble & Bumble, I moved onto make up with Shu Uemura and then lifestyle with Aveda, Tweezerman and L'Occitane. I then launched Ruby & Millie, a brand I co-founded with make up artist Ruby Hammer.

What is your career highlight? 

Getting my MBE definitely.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in the beauty industry? 

You have to love beauty, products or services.

Who is the ultimate beauty icon? 

Anna-Marie Solowij, she knows everything about beauty and is the most well groomed woman I know.

Anna-Marie Solowij

What are your makeup bag essentials? 

Eyelash curler, Shiseido RD203 Lip Gloss and Bourjois Cream Blush 03.

What is the biggest beauty crime a person can commit? 

Doing your make up on the tube!

What is your top beauty tip? 

Make the highest point of your eyebrow arch directly above the outer line of your iris - towards the ear obviously, not the nose!

Interview: David Colbert MD

David Colbert MD knows skin. He is the founder and head physician of New York Dermatology Group and is board certified by the American Academy of Dermatology. In addition to being a highly skilled and experienced physician, specialising in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Colbert has a degree in Internal Medicine, and a Fellowship in Acne and Wound Healing from Boston University. If this man's CV isn't impressive enough, before establishing himself in private practice in Manhattan, Dr. Colbert was a dermatological research consultant for Chanel in Paris. Oh, and he has his own skincare line.

I was very excited to grill the doctor - after all, he knows all there is to know about skin and his skincare line is everything. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our little chat...

What inspired you to work in the beauty/skincare industry? And how did your career journey begin?

My inspiration for dermatology began in my first year of medical school in France, studying the structure and function of skin. I was always fascinated by what goes on in the epidermis on a molecular level. 

After I completed my dermatology training and spent a decade taking care of patients at our Fifth Avenue practice (New York Dermatology Group), I expanded my horizons and began making elixirs by request. My first elixir, Heal and Soothe Night Cream, with angelica sinensis and shea nut butter, became a Hollywood success through word of mouth. Shortly thereafter, I was doing customized small batches for different actresses. Soon this morphed into a full line of products, ColbertMD Skincare.

What has been your career highlight?

I think that must have been jumping on a plane after the devastating earthquake in Haiti and doing emergency field medicine. Another was later having Sir Mick Jagger and the late L'wren Scott chair our newly founded charitable fundraiser for the NYDG Foundation.

The best success in life is helping others.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in the beauty/skincare industry?

Become an expert in your field of interest and do what you are passionate about.

Semper excelsius - always do your best.

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

It's a toss up between Rachel Weisz, Angelina Jolie, Naomi Watts, Sienna Miller, Halle Berry, Miranda Kerr and Adriana Lima.

What are your bathroom and travel bag essentials? 

My Gillette Sensor Excel razor. Illumino Facial Oil, Stimulate Serum and Balance Cleanser.

What is the biggest beauty/skincare crime a person can commit?

To hit 40 and not be using a facial oil.

What is your top beauty/skincare tip?

Be confident..and use a simplified skincare system that feels good and delivers results. Don't over-treat your skin.

Interview: Craig-Ryan French

Craig-Ryan French is an internationally renowned makeup artist who has over a decade of experience in theatre, film, television and fashion. He beautifies models backstage at fashion week and his work regularly features in the likes of Elle, Vogue, Harper's Bazaar and other leading industry publications.

He is also the Artistic Director and Global Makeup Artist at PAUL & JOE, the Parisian-based fashion house that is also home the gorgeous beauty line, PAUL & JOE BEAUTE! If he wasn't busy enough, Craig-Ryan French is also the head makeup artist for SyFy television series Defiance.

Luckily for me, this makeup maestro recently came to London and I was able to grill him on all things beauty. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our little chat...

What inspired you to become a makeup artist? And how did your career journey begin?

I had always loved classic horror movies (Dracula, Frankenstein, The Mummy etc.) and grew up recreating those original Hollywood make-ups on myself as a child (I know - weirdo!). When I turned 18, I moved to New York to study theatre at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts. I used a lot of those early self-taught techniques in the development of my characters on-stage, and further developed those skills through stage make-up training at the school.

After graduation, I enjoyed a brief 'hungry' career as a commercial actor. I once met a make-up artist on-set who said "Craig-Ryan, you are a make-up artist whether you like it or not, it's where your talents are. You will make more money doing make-up than you will ever make in a lifetime as a struggling actor". He was right - I focused my talents on make-up. I manipulated the shading & highlighting techniques I had learned in theatre school to sculpt beautiful cheekbones on a model for an editorial shoot. I have never looked back - makeup has taken me on an incredible journey around the world (and I still love those classic horror movies!).

What is your career highlight?

For the past two years, I have headed up the Make-up Department for the SyFy television series Defiance which has a been an incredible experience. I work with an amazing team of makeup artists and hair stylists to create a full spectrum of makeup looks that range from broken down, dirty humans, to over-the-top, futuristic full-prosthetic aliens (and everything else in between!). It has been a dream job, with a dream crew and a dream cast! It doesn't get much better than this! Season two premiered on ScyFy June 19th, 2014.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in the industry?

Show up to work on-time everyday, properly prepared, with a good attitude. This quality alone can pretty much guarantee you work and call backs. Never stop learning - always be a student and willing to learn from everyone around you.

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

Marilyn Monroe. Her cinematic beauty will last forever - she owned the 'close-up' and her enduring style will continue to impact fashion and generations for years to come.

What are your beauty kit essentials?

With just the six listed items below I am prepared to do my job on-set:

• PAUL & JOE Waterproof Mascara #01 Black - you'll remain flawless with this smudge and flake-free mascara for 24 hours until you remove it - all of my actresses love it and request it to use on all their film projects!
• Clé de Peau Beauté Concealers - I scoffed at the price tag until I first saw the on-camera results and discovered they are worth every penny. My kit always contains 'Ivoire' & 'Beige'.
• PAUL & JOE Eyebrow Collection - I make this statement as a professional make-up artist (not a P&J representative) - these are the BEST eyebrow products I have ever used. All of the makeup artists I have introduced them to would also agree - we can not function without them! Try, try, try!!!
• A nude pink/rose lip liner - I recommend Kevin Aucoin Flesh Tone Lip Pencil in 'Medium'
• Nivea Men's Replenishing Lip Balm - (yes, Men's!) this hydrates lips without leaving shine or visible residue.
• A natural bronzer to warm the Face and contour eyes.

What is the biggest beauty crime a person can commit?

Getting trapped in a particular outdated trend. Get a professional makeup consultation from an artist you trust every five years to stay current, looking youthful and feeling your absolute best.

What is your top beauty tip?

Always wear your make up - don't let your make up wear you. If someone compliments your make up before complimenting you, you may need to reconsider that particular colour - make up should always enhance who you are - not hide who are!

Interview: Mark Hill

Mark Hill is a British stylist, a multi-award winning one at that. If you grew up in beautiful Britain you have  to have heard of him. Not only is he still the only hairdresser outside of London to have won the British Hairdresser of the Year twice, he is also the only British hairdresser to have won the prestigious International Hairdresser of the Year accolade twice in succession.

When it comes to hair, there is nothing Mark Hill doesn't know! Luckily for me, Mark was kind enough to take some time out of his packed schedule to talk all things hair. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our little chat...

What inspired you to work in the hairdressing industry? And how did your career journey begin?

I was 15 when a girlfriend suggested I got a Saturday job in hairdressing. She was a bit older and already working in a local salon. To be honest, at first I was only doing it to meet more girls! But after working a couple of days I realised hairdressing was the career for me.

What is your career highlight?

Winning British Hairdresser of the Year for the first time. All of my friends, family and team were with me so it was a really special night.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in the industry?

You've got to love people and hair! Practice as much as you can and never stop learning – even today I am excited to try new techniques or create new styles.

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

For me, I would have to go back to the golden age of Hollywood and say screen icons such as Audrey Hepburn, Sophie Loren or Bridget Bardot. They epitomise beauty from head to toe. I also love people who are constantly re-inventing themselves – Katy Perry is a great example. She isn't scared to try new looks, colours or styles. Some styles are more successful than others but it doesn't matter - she is having fun and making a real statement with her hair. 

What are your hair and beauty essentials?

There are a few things I would never be without. Equipment wise, a hairdryer, round brush and wide tooth comb. Product wise I would never be without, Work it Girl Shine Protect and Control Spray and Miracoilicious Argan Oil. With these few products, I can style pretty much any client!

What is the biggest hair crime a person can commit?

I don’t think there is one! Everyone has their own style; what is seen as a crime by one person is probably someone else’s dream hair!

What is your top hair tip?

The key to any great style is condition. If your hair is in bad condition, styling will be difficult as your hair will lack volume, body and shine. Using the right products, using regular conditioning treatments and taking care of your hair will open up styling possibilities and make it easier to manage at home.

Interview: Essie Button

Essie Button, real name Estée, is a beauty blogger that you must  have heard about. She is smart, sexy, and seriously funny - most importantly, she knows a thing or two about beauty.

The Canadian-born blogger only launched her site essiebutton.com three years ago, yet she is already hugely popular across the globe and carries major influence over her fans' beauty purchases. Her blog is a must read and her YouTube videos are a must watch.

Estée was kind enough to take some time out of her packed schedule to talk all things beauty and blogging. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our little chat...

What inspired you to become a beauty blogger? And how did your blogging journey begin?

I first began blogging when I moved from Canada to England and didn't have too much of a social life yet. I was in the process of getting used to my new surroundings and I took comfort in the big world of beauty blogging! After reading blogs for a few months I figured I should start one of my own!

What is your blogging highlight?

There have been so many amazing opportunities brought to me through blogging, but my most recent highlight was getting to meet Bobbi Brown! I love all of her makeup products of course, but more importantly I respect her ethos.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in beauty blogging?

As cliché as it sounds I think it's essential to be yourself. People want to get to know the more personal side of the blogger and, after all, blogging is meant to be fun!

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

I'm not sure if I have a beauty icon, but I love anyone who rocks natural looking makeup. I would consider myself an obsessive fan of makeup, but I don't wear it all at once! I'm a firm believer that makeup should enhance natural characteristics - not hide natural beauty. Less is more!

What are your makeup bag essentials?

NARS Creamy Concealer is a must have for me as well as a great lip balm like The Body Shop's Aloe Lip Care. I also love the Benefit They're Real Mascara.

What is the biggest beauty crime a person can commit?

To me the one beauty crime that makes me cringe just thinking about it, is when I hear people say they don't wash their makeup off before bed. No matter how exhausted I am I always make time to wash my face and do my evening skincare routine. If your skin is well taken care of makeup is going to look a lot better.

What is your top beauty tip?

Drink lots of water and catch plenty of ZzzZzs! I'm guilty of not getting as much sleep as I should, but I think there's definitely truth to the phrase "beauty sleep".

www.essiebutton.com

Interview: Charlotte Vohtz

There is nothing I love more than a female entrepreneur who brings something special to the beauty world. So you can imagine why I love Charlotte Vohtz. She is the founder of Green People, an organic beauty brand that was born out of Charlotte's desire to help treat her daughter's eczema and severe allergies.

Charlotte is an inspirational business woman, a great mother and a fantastic advocate of natural and organic living. She took some time out of her packed beauty schedule to talk all things beauty. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our little chat...

What inspired you to work in the beauty industry? And how did your career journey begin?

My young daughter Sandra was my initial inspiration to start Green People. Sandra had very sensitive skin and was plagued with eczema. In 1994 I began searching for natural products that didn't contain harsh chemical. I found that, despite various marketing claims, there weren't any truly natural and organic beauty products on the market. This led me on an exciting journey of researching and formulating truly organic, natural products that would help Sandra and everyone else suffering with skin sensitivities.

What is your career highlight?

When, after several attempts to push for organic certification of beauty products both in Denmark and the UK, The Soil Association invited me to join the committee to help form the Organic Beauty Standards.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in the beauty industry?

Spend time planning because with good planning you are halfway there. Treat the budgets for the business as a slightly larger household budget and never put all your eggs in one basket. Don’t take no for an answer and never ever give up!

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

Leslie Kenton who rurally was 'there' for natural before anyone else. She heavily promoted healthy eating and living many years ago.

What are your makeup bag essentials?

I travel light when it comes to makeup. The combination of serum and oil is ideal as a primer and I can’t live without Green People's Pressed Mineral Powder SPF15. Caramel Medium is my favourite colour as it creates a sun-kissed look. The ‘all day’ volumising and conditioning mascara is another makeup bag essential - it lengthens and loads lashes without smudging.

What is the biggest beauty crime a person can commit?

Using chemicals on their child’s skin – up to 60% of what you apply on the skin is absorbed straight into the blood stream.

What is your top beauty tip?

Get your beauty sleep, go juicing and add quality supplements to your diet. I swear by Green People's Green Beauty with Astaxanthin and my favourite breakfast is a fresh juice of two carrots, one apple, ginger and a dash of lemon.

www.greenpeople.co.uk

Interview: Nicky Clarke OBE

There is not a hair-obsessed girl around who hasn't heard of styling legend Nicky Clarke. Mr Clarke is regarded by journalists as 'the world’s most newsworthy hairdresser'. He is a personal stylist to the stars - royalty included - and runs his own, hugely successful, hair care brand.

Nicky also owns four fabulous salons across the UK and, even though his career spans over 35 years, he still researches new techniques and products. So it's kind of easy to understand why he's revered as the best in the business.

Luckily for me, I was given the opportunity to interview Nicky on all things hair. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our little chat...

What inspired you to work in the hairdressing industry? And how did your career journey begin?

From a very young age I was interested in hairdressing. I used to practice on my whole family every chance I could get.

My first job was as a junior with Leonard’s of Mayfair when I was 14 years old. I knew of Leonard as the man who gave Twiggy the look that made her famous and I was in awe of him. I was paid £12 a week and I worked for many stylists at the salon before I graduated to assisting Leonard himself. It was my first big break and I grabbed it with both hands. I worked long hours but I loved it; opportunities like this were rare then. I knew it was my vocation and, since that first day, I have never stopped.

What is your career highlight?

There have been so many wonderful moments in my career, however I would say receiving an OBE from the Queen, for services to the hairdressing industry was a truly honourable moment in my life. It is a moment I shall never forget.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in the industry?

To be successful within this industry you have to be passionate about what you do. Hairdressing is a real art form, so being creative and hardworking will get you far. The harder you try, the luckier you get!

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

From the sheer beauty side of things, the likes of Sienna Miller and Penelope Cruz are difficult to beat!

What are your hair and beauty essentials?

My hero product is my Nicky Clarke Hair Raising Spray. I take it everywhere with me and I have used it at fashion shows, photo shoots and within my own salons. It is my favourite pre-styling product as it gives substantial lift before blow-drying and helps you to create your desired shape.

What is the biggest hair crime a person can commit?

Overusing products is the ultimate hair crime. Some people think that the more you use, the greater your hair will look. This is not the case; overusing a product can leave your hair more greasy and less manageable. It is key to remember that, when it comes to using products, you can build but you can’t take off.

I also tend to find that a lot of people do not wash their hair properly. You really need to rinse out all of the residue left from shampoos and conditioners. The cheaper varieties contain agents that make you believe your hair is smoother and silkier when washing. However, once the hair is dry, these agents will leave residue on the hair that can build up, causing dank, lack lustra locks. So always rinse until the water is clear and the hair is squeaky!

What is your top hair tip?

Having a regular trim is very important to maintaining healthy and glossy hair. The hair that grows out of your scalp is healthy. The further it moves away from the scalp, the more it is exposed to ‘the elements’. If you are washing and conditioning every day, you are stripping your hair of protein. Straightening and/or blow drying every day, as well as overusing products, can strip your hair - slowly (but surely!) causing damage. By having regular trims every 12 weeks, you are ensuring that the oldest, and most damaged parts are trimmed away. Regular trims also ensure that any split ends are immediately taken care of. If left alone, they can get worse and damage the hair ore by splitting further up the shaft. Each hair does not grow at exactly the same rate, so having regular trims will ensure your cut and style stays even.

www.nickyclarke.com / @NickyClarkeUK