Superlatives: Cosmetics Created by Makeup Artists – Part 1

It’s hard to imagine that some of the biggest and oldest cosmetic lines like L’Oreal, Maybelline, and Covergirl, were not created by people who actually used or applied makeup. Contrary to today, many new cosmetic lines are conceptualized by professional makeup artists or, at the very least, by people known for their impeccable makeup looks. It makes sense that people who apply makeup for living have the innate ability to create great products. A big part of the artistry involved in applying flawless makeup is mixing and blending multiple products to create the perfect color, shade, or formula.

Many artist begin their foray into the business side of the beauty industry as creative consultants for a major brand (i.e Pat McGrath oversees Covergirl, Max Factor, Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci). Artists who garner large social media followers often leverage their popularity through collaborations lines with an established brand (i.e. MAC X Patrick Starr). Whether you achieve success as a fashion-industry professional or a social-media phenomenon, it seems launching a product line of your own is inevitable. While some choose to focus on just a few products, others have launched a full line of products to rival the big dawgs. To list all of the cosmetic lines created by makeup artists would require a series (thus the “Part – 1” in the title). For now, here are a few of my current favs.

Best Body Bronzer: Scott Barnes, Body Bling. Who better to create a product to bling-out your body than the man who spawned the J-Lo Glow. Get your summer-time glow up all year thanks to celebrity makeup artist Scott Barnes.

Best Highlighter: Angel Merino, Artist Couture. Known as the MAC Daddy to his social media fans, Angel’s interstellar glow is unparalleled. Big night and want to outshine the competition? Reach for a jar of this finely milled stardust.

Best Eyeshadow: Lora Arellano, Melt Cosmetics. Bold colors, cool shades, and clever stacked packaging. What’s not to love? BTW, I’m a HUGE fan of the Rust Stack.

Best Overall Cosmetic Line: Pat McGrath, Pat McGrath Labs. After years as the fashion industry’s premier makeup artist and creative director to multiple brands, the leegendary (said in my Andre Leon Tally voice) Pat McGrath finally gifted us a lust-worthy line of lipsticks, glosses, eyeshadows, and highlighters. Everything about this line is major. From the uber-cool, futuristic branding to the sequin-filled packaging, one look and you. want. it. all. (Imma need a raise)