In conversation with Avleen Bansal, on her journey from a techie to a make-up artist.

What started as a hobby, soon became her passion and then her career. Make-up is an art and Avleen Bansal, Head of Trainings, Make-up Studio Professional, India has brought a different dimension to it with her experience, over the years. While her skill undoubtedly led her to becoming one of the finest educators in the make-up industry, she still looks forward to more innovations that she can bring to her craft.

Why and how did you decide to be in this profession?

I never had this planned as a career option. I’m a B-Tech computer science graduate andwanted to be a lecturer. I’ve always been good at painting and art. But my mother’s love for make-up was the beginning andthe turning point was when I decided to join a make-up course just as hobby during my holidays. So, my mom’s passion turned into my hobby and source of interest!

Where did you get your training?

I did my formal training in make-up and hairstyling from Make-up Studio Training Center (MSTC), Delhi. And it was the best decision of my life.

How has the journey been so far for you?
My journey has been fantastic and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given. I’m very happy with my role in my current organization and the atmosphere there is incredible, which makes my journey a beautiful one.

What are you doing presently?

Currently, I am working with Make-Up Studio brand and its training arm Make-up studio Training Center as Head of Trainings.

Your views on the importance of education?

One should have sound knowledge of the field they choose as a career. Make-up has grown more advanced and is not confined to simply applying foundation, blusher and lipstick, it’s a completely professional. YouTube and Instagram can inspire, but cannot help one become a successful artist. Choose a good make-up academy, get formal training and hands on practice starting from the basics and allowing yourself to grow as a professional. Educate yourself in areas like health & hygiene, client consultation skills and create a portfolio of your work.

Aspirants who have the right knowledge have the potential to make good money. Job satisfaction is another perk of this job.

What is the most challenging aspect of your career?

The industry evolves on a daily basis and the expertise has to be upgraded accordingly, which is a constant challenge. But the main challenge in this industry is to be recognized for excellence in service standards.

What elements in the job do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy everything. It’s a creative field with something new being added every day. I’m not only a make-up artist but also a make-up educator. I adore meeting and interacting with clients, our students and all the make-up lovers out there. I enjoy hearing back from them when they tell me how our brand has given them the power to perform well.

What inspires you in this business?

I think it’s very important to be able to look to myself for inspiration because the moment my own work doesn’t inspire me to create more, I’ll know that the end is near. Never let the fire run out!

For new make-up artists and hairdressers, what is your suggestion?

Stay focused on the area of the industry you want to succeed in. Be humble and prepared to work under pressure with tight schedules. Always maintain an updated portfolio of your work and most importantly, keep practicing.

Which brand do you use?

I am an Absolute Make-up Studio Lover!! It gives you everything in the best formula that a make-up artist wishes for. The products are unique, innovative, multi-purpose, affordable with professional quality formulas. The best thing is they are vegan and cruelty-free.

What is your USP?

My USP is that I can seamlessly work from one style to the other.I don’t follow any specific pattern or steps while doing make-up. I work like a painter working on a canvas, with a free-hand, with different textures and colors.

How difficult/easy is it to deal with stars?

It is quite challenging as film sets are hectic and stressful. Nonetheless, a make-up artist can easily make things smooth with proper research and designing the make-up looks according to the actor/actress role. My quick tip is, be patient and well-equipped.

Any advice for our readers who are also salon professionals?

  • Create value, give your customers more than what they expect.
  • Educate your clients.
  • Always do a portfolio consultation with your clients. Understand what they are looking for, show them sample images of what you choose for them and explain the realistic outcomes.

Your future endeavors?

I wish to take the make-up education platform to an extraordinary level across the country with experiential learning.

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