Beau Nelson’s resume reads like a veritable who’s who of Hollywood. With names like Kristen Stewart, Emma Watson, Gabrielle Union, Lisa Kudrow, Lauren Graham, Marcia Cross, Kerry Washington, and Brooke Shields on the list, it’s no wonder Nelson is one of the most in-demand make-up artists of our time.
Here, Sarah Howard asks her favorite beauty-related questions:
Sarah Howard: How did you break into the beauty/make-up industry?
Beau Nelson: I started in theater when I was really young, and learned the basics of make-up there.
But it wasn’t until my talent was noticed by a model agent when I was working in a department store that I became more involved in the fashion end of things, and less involved in the retail side.
SH: Five most coveted products, and why?
BN: 1. Kanebo Sensai skincare is amazing. The two-step cleansing process has changed the way my skin looks, and I recommend it to all my clients.
2. YSL faux cils mascara. Although it’s expensive, it creates beautiful full lashes in a rich dark black that never look clumpy.
3. Beauté Liqui-Gel Stain in Flouron. I created these, so they really were my most coveted product – so much so that I had to have them made! This color is a fluorescent pink but goes on sheer, and makes every skin tone look healthy and glowing.
4. NARS eyeshadow, in a great range of shades and beautiful textures. I especially like All About Eve, which is two shades of neutral beige, one satin finish and one shimmery.
SH: Favorite look you’ve ever created, and why?
BN: I love classic looks and monochrome looks. I love a classic red lip.