Celebrate, not Conceal
Redefining beauty with a makeup artist whose experience in NYP Makeup Artistry changed her perception of beauty and makeup.
Story by: Gracia Yap | Photos by: Ng Wan Xuan
“Happy people are the prettiest, and makeup helps to accentuate that smile of theirs,” said Ng Wan Xuan. Her views on beauty were inspired by her experience in Nanyang Polytechnic's Makeup Artistry CCA (NYP MUA), which she recently stepped down from.
MUA is a unique CCA, where Wan Xuan applied makeup for students from NYP StageArts for their annual drama production.
Wan Xuan said, “As I am a more creative person, freedom of expression in art forms appeals to me, so I chose makeup artistry.” Wan Xuan had to execute many difficult designs, and her hard work paid off when people felt confident about how they looked.
Although NYP MUA helped 19-year-old Wan Xuan to hone her makeup skills, she’s always wanted to learn makeup techniques to look more presentable while saving the cost of hiring a makeup artist.
Having done makeup for many years, Wan Xuan has already established her own makeup routine. She said, “I have been practicing the same set of looks for school so it doesn’t take too long to get ready.”
However, Wan Xuan realised that doing makeup for others entailed pressure and high expectations. “My first experience of applying makeup for someone was really nerve-wracking as I was so scared of accidentally stabbing her eyes with eyeliner,” said Wan Xuan before bursting into laughter. Thankfully, her makeup skills improved with practice.
“When I joined MUA, it was such an eye-opener to me as I got to experiment with looks I had never done before and it also helped me express myself better,” Wan Xuan said gratefully. Furthermore, she learnt that makeup boosts someone’s self-esteem when used to celebrate their features.
This can be done by selecting makeup products to match settings or occasions. Moreover, Wan Xuan suggested using shades of makeup that complements one’s skin tone and to use the right brushes to apply different types of makeup. Most importantly, it is crucial to moisturise one’s skin and wash up thoroughly after removing makeup.
Ultimately, Wan Xuan’s makeup products tips should allow one to express themselves confidently. “The purpose of makeup is not to conceal your flaws, rather to highlight your beautiful features,” Wan Xuan responded to the aim of makeup.
At the end of the day, “Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder” holds true as we all see beauty through different lenses. As for Wan Xuan, her unchanging view on beauty still remains: Anyone is beautiful as long as they are confident and “feel good about themselves.”
Wan Xuan’s top 3 makeup tips
Know the facial points of your face
Use shades that complement your skin tone
Moisturise your skin and exfoliate after a long day of wearing makeup
