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The Pro Files: Maja Salvador’s Makeup Artist Owen Sarmiento Talks About His Inspiration, Top Products, And Thoughts On Beauty

At an early age, celebrity makeup artist Owen Sarmiento already knew that he was meant to be part of the beauty industry. Growing up in a simple and humble family, he recalled that he was then very resourceful and he'd loved to create something out of nothing. As a kid, he enjoyed sketching women’s faces, and even use real makeup on paper. Fast forward to today, it’s no surprise that his career has grown so much as his impressive client list; which include some of the country’s most loved faces: Maja Salvador, Kisses Delavin, Claudia Barretto, Kim Jones, Solenn Heussaff and Yeng Constantino just to name a few. His work is instantly recognizable: Fresh, glowing women who exude confidence.

See some of his works in this photo gallery below:

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Owen’s natural ability to make clients not look only beautiful, but feel beautiful has made him the go-to makeup artist of the stars. His artistry has also led him to work with celebrities spanning red carpet appearances, magazine cover and editorials, and ad campaigns. And to get to know more about him, check out this exclusive Q&A that we had with him to discover his best beauty tips and tricks, plus the story of his friendship with his beautiful muse, Maja Salvador.

 

Metro.Style: When was the first time you worked with Maja?

Owen Sarmiento: It was for ASAP in June 12, 2016 to be exact.

 

MS: How did your friendship evolved through the years? 

OS: I wouldn't say it had to go through different stages because from the very beginning Maja made me feel I am her friend and that she trusts me. She's not afraid to share more personal matters to me and I am that too towards her.

 

 

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MS: How is it like to work with her? What do you love the most about her?

OS: Maja is one of the easiest person to work with because she is very genuine apart from being very kind. What I really like about Maja is that she never threw a tantrum (not that every other celebrity does) when she's not having the best day. She's always calm and still manages to smile.

 

MS: What’s your favorite look on her?

OS: Maja always tells me that she loves hues of brown and I agree with her! She looks her best in earth tones. Maja is beautiful. Her advantage is that her facial features are the ones you can tweak and mold to make them look slightly different, depending on the kind of look you want to put on her. You can really put anything on her face and once she stands on her fabulous stilettos and starts to gaze, she is a superstar! 

 

 

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MS: How would you describe your signature look?

OS: I can't say that I have a signature look because up to now, I work hard to be a versatile makeup artist. Like with Maja, I try to do different looks on her, incorporating what looks best on her. I guess it's safe to say that I'm not afraid to put makeup on, may it be colors or neutrals. I do make my makeup application for it to be seen. You see it's there and you know there's some work done. Makeup should be like clothes. you don't wear the same ones everyday.

 

 

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MS: What are your best practical makeup tips for looking good everyday?

OS: It's not really makeup but more of skincare for me. If you have good skin, you will see how much less of makeup you need. Good makeup really starts with good skin. 

 

MS: What are your top 3 skincare tips?

OS: Sunblock, exfoliate when needed, moisturize and apply eye cream!

 

MS: What are your favorite drug store buys?

OS: Maybelline Mascara, K-Palette Liners, and Carmex Lip Balm.

 

Lead and gallery photos via Owen Sarmiento