Makeup Artists Who Redifined the Beauty Space

Artistry has been the center of the beauty industry for decades. These visinaeres have shaped countless trends, techniques, products, and influenced countless looks. Let's take a look at some pioneers who have not only set the standard for glamorous looks but have also refined the concept of beauty itself.

Charlotte Tilbury

With over 30 years of experience in the beauty industry, beauty legend Charlotte Tilbury is one of the most iconic artists of all time. Before launching her own brand, she developed entire collections and led product development teams for brands such as M.A.C., Tom Ford, Burberry, and Armani. She works over 40 fashion shows a season and has appeared on over 100 Vogue covers throughout her career. In 2013, she launched her beauty and skincare brand, Charlotte Tilbury Beauty. The brand instantly became a hit for many for its high-end quality and products. While she has many bestsellers, Charlotte’s Magic Cream moisturizer is by far her most popular product. This award-winning moisturizer is clinically proven to create firmer, softer-looking skin that hydrates the skin twice.

Kevyn Aucoin

From a very young age, Kevyn knew what he wanted to do; he became one of the artists to put makeup artistry on the map. Over the years, he looked for music videos, runways, album covers, and multiple Vogue covers. He pioneered the celebrity makeup artist space and developed a makeup technique called contouring, which is now considered an essential part of makeup application. Inspired by education and a desire to teach others, he created multiple best-selling books, including The Art of Makeup (1994) and Making Faces (1997), in which he shared his techniques. His artistry and techniques continue to inspire many makeup artists to this day, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential artists in the beauty industry. Before his tragic passing in 2002, he created his legacy brand, Kevyn Aucoin, in 2001.

Bobbi Brown

Known as the original creator of the “no makeup makeup” look, Bobbi Brown is a legend in the beauty industry. She founded her own brand, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, in 1991 after getting tired of seeing a lack of neutral shades. With a focus on neutral colors and natural makeup, her brand soon became one of the biggest in the industry. Four years after launching her brand, it was acquired by Estée Lauder, solidifying its place as a global powerhouse. In 2016, Brown stepped away from the company to pursue other opportunities. Since then, Brown has established a new beauty brand, Jones Road Beauty. With a formula-first concept suitable for all skin types, especially mature aging skin, Jones Road reflects Brown’s mission to create simple but timeless beauty for all.

Mary Philips

Philips is best known for reshaping modern beauty by inventing her signature “underpainting” technique for contouring. This now-viral trend has changed the way many people apply their makeup. Traditionally, contour, blush, and highlight are applied over the foundation, but in her technique, she uses them under the foundation for a more natural, softer look. She also has an established celebrity client base, including Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and Jennifer Lopez, among others. In 2025, she launched her own beauty line, m.ph by Mary Philips, which features products designed to help you feel confident using her professional techniques.

Pat McGrath

British make-up artist Pat McGrath is widely known for being one of the most trailblazing and visionary figures of the beauty industry. Recognized for being one of the best at runway looks, McGrath has also done editorial shoots for some of the world’s most prestigious publications and fashion houses. Each season, she conceptualizes over 60 couture and ready-to-wear shows across New York, London, Milan, and Paris. She also founded her own brand, Pat McGrath Labs, in 2015, best known for its high-impact pigments and luxury formulations. Since its launch, Pat McGrath Labs has become a bestseller in Sephora, Ulta, Nordstrom, Selfridges, and other retailers. Recently, McGraths joined Louis Vuitton as Creative Director of La Beauté, creating the brand’s first cosmetic line.