10 Minutes With April Jacob: Makeup Artist + Founder of Pink Beauty Cosmetics

April Jacob

City:  Toronto   
Profession: Makeup Artist/Creator of Pink Beauty Cosmetics
Claim to Fame: Effortless beauty for the glam girl on-the-go, loved by Hollywood celebrities and fashionistas.
Website: www.pinkbeauty.com   
Facebook: Pink Beauty Cosmetics

How did you get your start in the industry?

I was working as a professional makeup artist doing television, film, fashion and printwork, as well as working on other notable cosmetic lines.  In my experience, I found that many women were overwhelmed by all the processes, steps and color intensity of most makeup artistry lines.  I wanted to create a beauty line that was user-friendly, requiring very little artistry know-how and steps, but was of prestige quality.
 

Who is your dream client and why?

I really enjoy all my clients.  I have the opportunity to meet women from all different backgrounds, ages and professions, and I learn something from each and every one of them.  A dream client is someone who is open to a new look, experimenting with their makeup, and has a positive outlook on life.
 

Without naming names, tell us about your nightmare client.

I’m not sure I’ve ever had a nightmare client!  I’ve definitely faced challenges working with some women who are apprehensive and anxious about makeup.  It can be tough to reach out to them, but it’s so rewarding to me to have a customer leave with new skills, and products that they love and that they are able to use at home to get the same results.
 

What's your favorite trend this season?

While there are so many pretty trends out for this season, I am really loving the raspberry lip.  I have been wearing Pink Beauty Luscious Lipshimmer Lipstick in Vivi, with a softly smudged eye and a rose cheek.

What 3 beauty or fashion mistakes do women commonly make?

1. Playing up more than one feature at a time.  Some people just overdo it – a very smoky eye, strong cheek and red lips all at once!  You lose the effect and it’s just your makeup that people can see.  I believe in playing up one feature at a time – whether it’s your lips or your eyes, and everything else should be done softly.  Pink Beauty allows you to experiment and play with color because the products are so sheer and buildable. 
    
2. Not knowing when to stop.  Sometimes I find that people need to take a step back and take a good look in the mirror.  Less is really more!  Your makeup can look great without being too overdone – it’s all about balance.
    
3. Over-plucking your eyebrows.  Sparse eyebrows make you look older and harsh.  It’s terrible!  If you are unsure on how to properly shape your brows, visit a reputable salon in your area and speak with a professional who can help you achieve the right shape for your face.
    

Can you share some of your secrets for looking good on camera?

Enhancing your features will help to bring them out on camera.  Ensuring that your eyes and lips are defined, and use blush to warm up your complexion and make your cheeks pop.  Apply brush highlighter where the light would naturally hit if your face was illuminated by candlelight.  As always, makeup should be well-blended and balanced.  That becomes crucial on camera!  Ensure that both eyes and cheeks are done with the same intensity and so on….
 

What are 3 things women can do to update their look on the cheap?

1. A new lipstick can change and update your look in an instant.  Lipstick can be so much fun to play and experiment with, and it’s not a very big investment to make. 
    
2. Updating your hair with accessories.  If you normally wear your hair down, wear it up!  People will notice the change.
    
3. Take care of yourself.  Hydrate your skin and drink lots of water.  An exfoliating face scrub will leave you looking luminous and glowing - your makeup will look better.  Make sure to get lots of sleep!  Getting your ‘beauty rest’ is free!  When you’re sleep deprived, it really affects your skin, creating undereye bags, dry skin and so many more unflattering side-effects.
    

What's the most surprising thing you've learned in your profession so far?

I’ve learned that even the most beautiful people have their own insecurities.  Everyone has insecurities!  I really try to teach people to embrace their own unique beauty and enhance it so that they feel their best.

If you had to choose another profession, what would it be and why?

I think I would be a floral designer. I adore working with flowers, making arrangements to create a sense of calm and indulgence in my home.  I enjoy being artistic and working with different colors and textures.  I could also be a greeting card designer.  I make all my own cards – birthday cards, anniversary cards, etc.  I love adding that personal touch.
 

Any words of wisdom for those trying to break into your profession?

Be passionate about what you do because this industry is so competitive.  Try to get as much experience as possible – volunteer if you can.  Foster good relationships with the people that you meet because you never know what opportunities might come further down the road.  Know that there are so many options out there for those interested in makeup and not to limit yourself to one specific avenue.
 

Learn more about April Jacob & Pink Beauty Cosmetics at www.pinkbeauty.com