Crystal Seu-Yen Thomas has been involved in the makeup industry for the past 15 years. In 2006, driven by her love for makeup, she attended Ephraim Hunte’s International Makeup Academy. Simultaneously, she studied cosmetology at the Madame Maharaj School Of Cosmetology and even apprenticed for numerous hairdressers and spas for four years after. Her passion for makeup started when watching Yoko Fung for the first time. When she saw her unique style of makeup, Crystal was hooked and wondered how she too could use makeup to be her version of unique.
While she delved into the field out of pure passion, a more in-depth look into the art made Crystal realise that one’s health has a major part to play in makeup. Openly admitting that she gained a lot of weight over the years, Crystals health was being affected. Being a determined individual, she made the decision to not limit her beauty by just applying makeup. She also wanted to be beautiful, fit and healthy. This decision was the start of a new chapter and a new life for Crystal. The 31-year-old has managed to lose 100 pounds in one year and proudly speaks today not just about makeup but also on fitness and health. “I believe beauty is whatever makes you feel comfortable,” she said. “It’s your sense of style, whatever it may be, never try to adapt it to others because there can only be one you.”
Crystal’s story has really been a huge inspiration for us, check out what more she had to share with the WE Mag team:
One thing your clients can really count on you for?
My clients count on me for adding that special touch to complete their unforgettable event for which they have hired me to do their makeup.
Who or what are you inspired by?
My greatest inspirations are Nelson Mandela and Princess Diana of Wales. Even after their deaths, their life stories of overcoming great obstacles, their acts of great kindness and the way in which they lived their lives - the way they impacted on everyone so much that the world grieved for them, deeply inspires me.
Tell us about your best achievements/milestones.
I am proud of being able to lose 100 pounds in one year. I am also thrilled that I was able to purchase my first vehicle and also start a healthy food catering company.
How do you stay abreast of the latest beauty trends?
I stay abreast of the latest trends by researching new techniques, and following my favourite international makeup artists.
What is the biggest challenge you have to face as a makeup artist?
I believe the greatest challenge for any great makeup artist is always being compared to cheaper makeup artists who are “self taught” after they (qualified makeup artists) have invested time and lots of money to be qualified to carry this title professionally.
What makeup tips can you give to us?
1. Maintaining proper hygiene (of products) is very important. Cleaning brushes, changing expired makeup etcetera is absolutely necessary.
2. The application of a product is sometimes more important than the brand of the product being used.
3 .Skin care is very important for flawless makeup finishes.
4. Never limit your self-expression in your makeup for others. If it makes you feel beautiful, wear it proudly.
5. Makeup is like technology, always evolving, so you must always keep learning.