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   ![Jillian Dempsey: My Life In Beauty](https://media.sheerluxe.com/yAhUyZURRC7j5RGAMApdRioukmo=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2022%2F05%2Fjillian.jpg?itok=FHTGXces)

  

 

 



 

  Photography: @JILLIAN DEMPSEY 

 

 

 

[Beauty](/beauty)

 /  24 May 2022  

#  Jillian Dempsey: My Life In Beauty  


Jillian Dempsey is one of the world’s most renowned make-up artists. As well as creating memorable looks for the red carpet – her clients include Kristen Stewart, Jennifer Lawrence and Kate Winslet – she’s also worked on some of the biggest editorial campaigns out there. Here, she shares her main beauty lessons, the products she’s never without, and her advice for those embarking on a similar career path…  


ByRebecca Hull

  /  

[ Save To My Favourites ](/user/0/favourites)

 

  Photography: @JILLIAN DEMPSEY 

 

 

 

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.

 



 

 

 

 



 

 



 

 

> [View this post on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/Cbp0arprLUi/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading)

 

 

**My career started with my friends.** I did their make-up for fun, but they helped me realise I wanted to take it more seriously. That’s when I decided to get my professional licence in West Hollywood. After graduating, I started working on sets and photoshoots – everything from commercials to videos and print. I also took a part time job at the Shu Uemura boutique in LA. I learned such invaluable knowledge there, and worked with the most talented people.

**I am known as a make-up artist, but I do hair too.** I had to build up my portfolio to get an agent, so I trained in both hair and make-up, and moved to London to build my career. There, I worked with a variety of photographers and hairstylists – many of whom I’m still in contact with today. It takes time to create a name for yourself, but the hard graft is worth it.

**Organisation is essential in this career.** My training at Shu Uemura was intense, but it gave me lifelong habits that have kept me in control. That includes things like presentation and cleanliness. Maintaining a well-organised and clean make-up kit is the best advice I could give anyone who wants to be a make-up artist. It means you’ll be ready for any type of job at any given moment.

**The 90s make-up look is one of my all-time favourites.** I love that it’s so on-trend again. It’s all about strength in the arch of the brows – using a pencil – and a strong, black, upper tight line for the eyes. That’s followed by [MAC’s Spice Lip Liner](https://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/13852/340/products/makeup/lips/lip-pencil/lip-pencil), Shu Uemura’s Nobara Foundation and [Shiseido’s Eyebrow Pencils](https://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/brand/shiseido/brow-inktrio-771264) – I use all of these products on my actress clients.

**There is one constant in my kit.** My career has spanned many decades, so a lot of my favourite products have sadly been discontinued. However, I always have my [Shu Uemura Eyelash Curlers](https://www.stylevana.com/en_GB/shu-uemura-eyelash-curler-1.html). The experts aren’t lying to you when they say they’re the best.

**Scott Andrew was a true inspiration to me.** He was a fantastic make-up artist based in New York. Sadly, he is no longer with us, but his work has probably influenced my style the most. He did so many [*Allure*](https://www.allure.com/) magazine covers with Michael Thompson, who I also really admired.

 

 

 

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> [View this post on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/CasWLafhLef/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading)

 

 

> [View this post on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/CbIWU0JllSl/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading)

 

 

 

 Know what SUITS your face and don’t follow every trend. Understand what works with your INDIVIDUAL features and make it your own.  
 

 



 

 

 

 

 

**My biggest mentor has to be Millie Kendall.** She was the first person to hire me – at the Shu Uemura Boutique – and she even let me crash at her flat in London at the start of my career. She gives the best beauty advice: to design products I would use on myself, and that my friends would love. It’s simple, but it is so true. You have to want to use what you create.

**There are so many memorable moments in my career.** One that stands out is working with British photographer Craig McDean on a shoot for my hair pomade with my twins and husband as models. Also, introducing my vibrating [Gold Bar](https://www.feelunique.com/p/Jillian-Dempsey-Gold-Beauty-Bar?q=jillian%20dempsey%20gold%20beauty%20bar%20&q_typ=a&q_cat=product&q_dep=Skincare%2CSkincare%20Tools%20%26%20Kits&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=SheerLuxe+Ltd&awinid=22773&awc=22773_1653066812_431cdb3c70cd9153aaf3793973f588e2) was a defining moment – I’m very proud of all my products, but this was a real highlight for me.

**The one lesson my career has taught me is professionalism.** In this line of work, you have to be professional and on time – every time. Both count for a lot. Then, remember to cater to the needs of the job and the client – leave your personal life at home. Finally, gossip is never a good idea if you want to maintain healthy relationships at work.

**Polished skin is my signature.** I love to keep people’s complexions – my own included – glowing and fresh. Then, I’ll pair that with a smudged-out eye. I’m not heavy handed, but I will work on a look until it feels complete. I do like to see a bit of natural skin coming through – that, and a plump glow on the cheeks.

**Clean skin is essential for good make-up.** Always wash your face, especially if you wear make-up a lot, to keep the skin feeling clean and looking fresh. Dirty skin will inevitably cause breakouts and clogged pores. Taking a skin-first approach also allows you to simplify your make-up routine. A dab of concealer under eyes, a quick cream blush on the cheek and a coat of mascara and tinted balm will be all you need.

**Tokyo is one of the best places to shop for new beauty.** There is so much to do and see. In terms of specific shops, [Nigel’s Beauty Emporium](https://www.nigelbeauty.com/) has a lot to offer – you’ll find it on the West Coast, so if you’re ever in the area, it’s a great place to browse.

**Elizabeth Taylor would have been my dream client.** I have had and have many incredible clients and I feel so fortunate to be involved in creating their looks. But from the past, Elizabeth Taylor is the one person I would have loved to do make-up for – no one wore a smokey eye better than her.

**A [rich brown kohl eyeliner](https://www.harrods.com/en-gb/shopping/jillian-dempsey-khol-eyeliner-15081038?utm_source=ran_uk&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=1918502_SheerLuxe.com&utm_content=894670&ranMID=36666&ranEAID=etT1jgERWYw&ranSiteID=etT1jgERWYw-6tAK0MfLEScmqOeIBW4aFA) is a staple in my own make-up bag.** I am never without my own one – it’s so easy to blend and smoke out. Likewise, my [Sunny Cheek Tint](https://www.feelunique.com/p/Jillian-Dempsey-Cheek-Tint-3g?q=Jillian+Dempsey+Cheek+Tint+-+3g&q_typ=f&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=SheerLuxe+Ltd&awinid=22773&awc=22773_1653066924_651ce62e1ca975c01f1c1556545b3327) is essential for a healthy flush of colour. I’ll always finish my look with a coat of mascara and swipe of lip balm, then I’m done. Two products I couldn’t go without are my gold bar and a good [SPF– EltaMd](https://www.isclinical.co.uk/products/eclipse-spf-50)’s is my favourite.

**My best make-up tip is to make a look your own.** Know what suits your face and don’t follow every trend. Understand what works with your individual features and make it your own – that way, it will always look right and never OTT.

Follow [@JillianDempsey](https://www.instagram.com/jilliandempsey/?hl=en) for more beauty advice, tips &amp; tutorials

 

 

> [View this post on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/CayPEJel-B3/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading)

 

 

 

---

 

## Shop Jillian's Beauty Essentials 



 

 

 

 ![Volume Length Curl Separation Mascara from Chanel ](https://media.sheerluxe.com/44DJ99Qm3Pn8c-2p3SrJvVO7-J0=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2022%2F05%2Fchanel-inimiatable-intense-mascara.png?itok=V4z3Wf5s)

 

 

 

[#### Volume Length Curl Separation Mascara](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=22773&awinaffid=69421&ued=https%3A//www.feelunique.com/p/CHANEL-Inimitable-Intense-Volume-Length-Curl-Separation-Mascara-6g)

##### Chanel, 



£31

 

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 ![UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 from EltaMD ](https://media.sheerluxe.com/_vGVHz2WUkTpyVmNWk9kyTLX-3E=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2022%2F05%2Felta-md-uv-clear-broad-spectrum-spf46.png?itok=4OJeesPp)

 

 

 

[#### UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46](https://eltamd.com/products/uv-clear-broad-spectrum-spf-46)

##### EltaMD, 



$39

 

[ Flag this item ](/user/0/favourites "Add product to my favourites")

 

 

 

 ![Eclipse SPF 50 from Isclinical](https://media.sheerluxe.com/bmwojvgJt3O1JJcqSvYE4p2Nkwg=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2022%2F05%2Fclinical-eclipse-spf-50.png?itok=JXoo4MHD)

 

 

 

[#### Eclipse SPF 50](https://www.isclinical.co.uk/products/eclipse-spf-50)

##### Isclinical, 



£38

 

[ Flag this item ](/user/0/favourites "Add product to my favourites")

 

 

 

 ![Cheek Tint from Jillian Dempsey](https://media.sheerluxe.com/JX3SWAy336mZxZC7V2wiXJGuV3c=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2022%2F05%2Fjd-sunny-cheek-tint.png?itok=u2bCZkOS)

 

 

 

[#### Cheek Tint](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=22773&awinaffid=69421&ued=https%3A//www.feelunique.com/p/Jillian-Dempsey-Cheek-Tint-3g%3Fq%3DJillian%2BDempsey%2BCheek%2BTint%2B-%2B3g%26q_typ%3Df)

##### Jillian Dempsey, 



£26.50

 

[ Flag this item ](/user/0/favourites "Add product to my favourites")

 

 

 

 ![Gold Beauty Bar from Jillian Dempsey](https://media.sheerluxe.com/WCEI7CM-XkAbFQlHDW6uAL8WG9s=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2022%2F05%2Fjillian-dempsey-gold-bar.png?itok=w4tMCCSF)

 

 

 

[#### Gold Beauty Bar](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=22773&awinaffid=69421&ued=https%3A//www.feelunique.com/p/Jillian-Dempsey-Gold-Beauty-Bar%3Fq%3Djillian%2520dempsey%2520gold%2520beauty%2520bar%2520%26q_typ%3Da%26q_cat%3Dproduct%26q_dep%3DSkincare%252CSkincare%2520Tools%2520%2526%2520Kits)

##### Jillian Dempsey, 



£185

 

[ Flag this item ](/user/0/favourites "Add product to my favourites")

 

 

 

 ![Rich Kohl Eyeliner from Jillian Dempsey ](https://media.sheerluxe.com/vmoiwJikLxDA7RUJbTZQ5dEa5fM=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2022%2F05%2Fjillian-dempsey-rich-brown-kohl-eyeliner.png?itok=d3r7_bjZ)

 

 

 

[#### Rich Kohl Eyeliner](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=etT1jgERWYw&mid=36666&murl=https%3A//www.harrods.com/en-gb/shopping/jillian-dempsey-khol-eyeliner-15081038)

##### Jillian Dempsey, 



£18.50

 

[ Flag this item ](/user/0/favourites "Add product to my favourites")

 

 

 

 ![Lip Liner In Spice from Mac](https://media.sheerluxe.com/VVJupw7sOAJwjfl_wdf49m0wrOs=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2022%2F05%2Fmac-lip-pencil-spice.png?itok=U3zIZlKh)

 

 

 

[#### Lip Liner In Spice](https://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/13852/340/products/makeup/lips/lip-pencil/lip-pencil)

##### Mac, 



£17

 

[ Flag this item ](/user/0/favourites "Add product to my favourites")

 

 

 

 ![Brow Pencils from Shiseido](https://media.sheerluxe.com/0G02JvAU4CIaFcg9UmfQJj6mNyU=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2022%2F05%2Fshiseido-brow-pencils.png?itok=Qz6AUX33)

 

 

 

[#### Brow Pencils](https://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/brand/shiseido/brow-inktrio-771264)

##### Shiseido, 



£22

 

[ Flag this item ](/user/0/favourites "Add product to my favourites")

 

 

 

 ![Eyelash Curler from Shu Uemura](https://media.sheerluxe.com/Wg16gHr6oNRjmXFkZhtJbA63M78=/600x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2022%2F05%2Fshu-uemura-lash-curlers.png?itok=M1CgF5Bg)

 

 

 

[#### Eyelash Curler](https://www.stylevana.com/en_GB/shu-uemura-eyelash-curler-1.html)

##### Shu Uemura, 



£18.39

 

[ Flag this item ](/user/0/favourites "Add product to my favourites")

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

  

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