Now I do editorials mostly. Basically, I actually have a really analytical approach to makeup. Between what I need and what is correct, the latter matters more. A variety of my work relies on sense and instinct since it’s artistic. At a shoot for Bottega Veneta, the concept was to have pearlescent lips and body painting; all the pieces needed to shine. I dipped the model in golden pigment and finalized the lips with an additional layer of thick gloss. One other time, I cut off the wings of [taxidermic] butterflies and applied them symmetrically on the model’s face. The wings created fast shadows that stood out far more than the makeup. And I recently did a shoot within the desert. The concept was about aliens landing on Earth. I bleached the eyebrows. It was steaming hot; the makeup melted heavily though it was waterproof.

This 12 months at Cannes, I worked with Margaret Qualley. I really like that girl. She’s beautiful, natural, and joyful. Margaret had jet lag, so I began with a facial massage. My mom taught me the fundamentals. With the massage, typically, you may improve blood circulation. It may also help with dark circles across the eyes. After 20 minutes of massage, Margaret had a natural glow. I didn’t even must apply foundation… only a really mild blush.

People tell me I’m efficient because I work fast. The hot button is to develop the thought and rehearse all the operation in my mind. I actually have a number of passion for makeup, but confidence is different for me. It is a challenge. I take heed to a voice in my head that claims, “Min, you may do it. You possibly can make it to the following step.” I say that meditation to myself on a regular basis. Once the talent sits in front of me it’s pure execution, like a surgeon.

I like makeup because it isn’t boring. Everyone seems to be different, every color is different. When I’m going to jobs I never think, I need to go home. That’s the perfect. I’m so lucky to have this job in my life. —As told to Alaina Demopoulos

A version of this story originally appeared within the September 2022 issue of Allure. Learn methods to subscribe here.

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