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Five minutes with celeb make-up artist Kayleen McAdams

By MiNDFOOD

Five minutes with celeb make-up artist Kayleen McAdams
La Mer’s global make-up ambassador, Kayleen McAdams, sister to Hollywood actor Rachel, talks skincare and her La Mer essentials.

Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Kayleen McAdams found her calling when visiting a movie set and never looked back. Now a popular go-to among the Hollywood crowd, glamorous makeup is her calling card. The La Mer Global Makeup Ambassador  and sister of actress Rachel McAdams shares her beauty secrets with us.

How did you get your start as a makeup artist?

I had been encouraged to pick a practical career, so I majored in psychology. My sister Rachel was just getting started as an actress and I flew down during winter break to visit her on the set. There, I fell in love with everything makeup and realised I could turn it into a career. I went home and finished my degree, but then immediately enrolled in makeup school.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Every look I create inspires me in a new way. For example, red carpet make up is a very collaborative process and I sometimes see an Oscars dress as far as a week in advance. We often think of iconic movie stars or moments, and draw from there. I share my thoughts with the actress and her team, and we all brainstorm together.

What does beauty mean to you?

Beauty takes on a whole new meaning now that it’s my job. I’m so lucky that I get to go to work with such incredible women and make them feel confident about themselves. I always want the woman to shine through and never want to make it look like I’m applying a mask of makeup that’s hiding her. When you feel amazing, it affects everything – from your career to personal relationships.

How important is skincare in your beauty routine?

Skincare is the most important step of the entire makeup process. If your skin doesn’t look good, you have to work twice as hard and use a lot more product – and formulas don’t lay down as well. It’s not about having perfect skin. It’s about taking care of the skin you do have, and keeping it feeling and looking healthy—that’s why I love La Mer!

What about La Mer is special to you?

To me, it’s more than just a very aspirational and luxurious brand. It’s a brand that performs. La Mer never compromises, and they put all their time and energy into making amazing products that truly make a difference.

What is your go to La Mer Product?

I love the glow that The Perfecting Treatment gives to the skin. It is especially perfect for wearing underneath La Mer’s Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation. It buffs out any lines and imperfections and helps foundation last all day.

What is your favourite place to travel to?

Tokyo has always been on my bucket list, and I was finally able to visit this year. It was so gorgeous and the rituals, like receiving a warm towel everywhere you go, were so wonderful. There’s a strong belief in investing the time and money into finding beauty products and a style that really works for you.

What can you never leave the house without?

Mascara – it just makes your eyes pop.

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