In this exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the makeup artistry behind Lupita Nyong'o's The Odyssey press tour, we delve into the creative process and products used by her makeup artist, Nick Barose. From skin prep to the final touches, Barose shares his expertise and personal insights, offering a unique perspective on the art of red-carpet makeup.
Skin Prep
Barose emphasizes the importance of skin prep, especially in the demanding conditions of a blockbuster press tour. He relies on a combination of products to ensure Nyong'o's complexion is ready for the spotlight.
Kalkay Wild Rose Refreshing Toner: An Indigenous brand, this toner is a favorite for its gentle, refreshing scent and ability to wake up the senses. Barose uses it to mist Nyong'o's face, creating a relaxing atmosphere before the makeup application.
ZIIP Halo Microcurrent Device: A game-changer for red-carpet events, this device prepares the complexion, making the glow look natural and radiant. Barose applies it before the big events, ensuring the makeup adheres perfectly.
Exfoliation: Barose uses Lisa Eldridge's Luxuriously Gentle Cleansing and Exfoliating Cloths for a gentle exfoliation step. He soaks the cloths in warm water, then gently scrubs the face, neck, and lips to remove dry patches and polish the skin.
Chanel Sublimage Skincare: Barose prepares Nyong'o's skin with Chanel Sublimage Le Sérum, La Crème, La Crème Yeux, and Lip Oil. These products provide a luxurious base, ensuring the makeup goes on smoothly and lasts throughout the tour.
London Premiere Look
For the London premiere, Barose drew inspiration from Hollywood's first Vamp screen persona, Theda Bara, and later photographs of Marilyn Monroe. He created a sultry, dark, and vampy look with defined eyes and lips, keeping the color palette muted.
Lisa Eldridge Elevated Glow Balm: Applied on the top of cheeks and brow bones, this balm adds a golden highlight, illuminating the skin and creating a candle-lit glow.
Lisa Eldridge Velatura Balm and Rouge Experience: Barose used these products to add a hint of color and shine on cheeks and lips, creating a seductive vampy pout.
Lisa Eldridge Lurex Eyeshadow: A chic, metallic pewter liquid eyeshadow, it adds a touch of glamour to the look.
Paris Premiere Look
In Paris, Barose paid homage to Eartha Kitt's iconic Cat Woman look. He paired a deep-red lipstick with gold sparkles on the skin, creating a dramatic and theatrical effect.
Chanel Les Beiges Water-Fresh Tint and Sublimage L'Essence De Teint: These products provided the perfect glow and radiance, enhancing Nyong'o's natural beauty.
Chanel Joues Contrast Blush and Le Crayon Yeux: A fresh berry tone and a black-cherry balm added a hint of color and shine to the cheeks and lips.
Chanel Inimitable Mascara and 31 Le Rouge: Long, feathery lashes and a rich, plummy lipstick completed the Old-Hollywood screen goddess look.
New York City Premiere Look
For the New York City premiere, Barose drew inspiration from the glamorous femme fatales of the 1950s and 1960s, such as Anne Baxter and Donyale Luna. He created a 60s-inspired look with winged liner, a defined crease, and gold details.
Danessa Myricks Colorfix Pigment: Applied on the inner corners of eyes, this product added a pop of gold, highlighting the eyes and tying in with Nyong'o's gold gown.
i-ENVY False Lashes: Long, feathery lashes with spaces in between added drama without overwhelming the gold details.
Tansculpt Bronzing Contour Balm: A product from Hung Vanngo, it provided a dark and delicious contour, perfect for sculpting and defining Nyong'o's cheekbones.
Heatwave Makeup Tips
Barose shares his go-to products for controlling shine and setting makeup in the midst of a summer heatwave.
Mehron Touch Up Anti-Shine: A backstage brand, this gel treatment is perfect for shine control and lasts a long time.
Mistine Matte Setting Spray: A Thai beauty brand, this setting spray helps lock in the makeup, focusing on the T-zone for a matte and polished finish.
Payot Absorbing Blotting Sheets: These sheets are essential for keeping the skin fresh-looking, especially in the heat, by blotting away excess oil and sweat.
