Beauty
Bassam Fattouh has long been a defining voice in Middle Eastern beauty. Known for his refined touch and signature glow, the Lebanese makeup artist has shaped the faces of regional icons and global stars alike, building a reputation on precision, radiance, and an instinctive sense of glamour. His namesake brand, Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics, reflects the same philosophy of effortless elegance rooted in artistry and authenticity.
At this year’s Beautyworld Middle East 2025 in Dubai, Fattouh led a live masterclass that drew a full house of beauty professionals and enthusiasts. Sharing the stage with international heavyweights Hung Vanngo and Nikki Wolf, he showcased modern techniques grounded in years of experience, reaffirming his position as one of the region’s most respected artists shaping the beauty conversation today.
In this interview, Emirates Woman sat down with Fattouh to talk all things beauty, from the evolution of his craft to what inspires his creative direction today.
Celebrity Makeup Artist Bassam Fattouh
What is your very first memory of make-up?
My earliest memory of makeup goes back to watching my mother getting ready. I was fascinated by how a few colours could completely change her mood and presence. That moment taught me that makeup is not just about beauty—it’s about transformation and emotion.
In terms of your starry clientele, who do you work with regularly? And who would be your dream client?
Throughout my career, I’ve had the honour of working closely with members of royal families, celebrities, and brides across the Arab world. Each face tells a story. My dream client is anyone who embraces her individuality and sees makeup as self-expression—whether she’s a global icon or a woman preparing for her wedding day.
How would you define your signature look?
Effortless glamour. I believe in enhancing, not masking. My signature is luminous skin, defined eyes, and harmony between strength and softness. The woman wearing my makeup always looks powerful, feminine, and timeless.
How do you balance creativity and perfectionism?
Creativity is emotion; perfectionism is structure. I start with instinct—playing with colours, textures, and ideas—then refine with precision. It’s like composing music: emotion first, technique second.
What are your non-negotiables when it comes to makeup?
Good skin preparation, perfect blending, and balance. No makeup can look beautiful without hydrated, prepped skin. And I never compromise on texture harmony—everything must melt seamlessly together.
What is your personal beauty philosophy?
Beauty begins with confidence. Makeup should never hide who you are—it should reveal your essence. True beauty radiates from within, and my mission is to highlight that natural glow every woman carries inside her.
Which time period was your favourite for its beauty?
The 1950s and 1960s. It was an era of pure femininity—Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, and Arab icons like Sabah and Fairouz. The eyeliner, the sculpted lips, the refined elegance—timeless inspirations that still influence my work today.
In terms of memorable make-up looks or creative projects, what are some of the highlights for you looking back on the past ten years?
There have been many beautiful moments—from creating looks for Miss Lebanon to working on editorial shoots with international brands and launching my own products. Each project that tells a story and inspires emotion is a highlight for me. I’m proud that “Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics” has grown into a brand that celebrates Arab beauty on a global stage.
What have been the challenges that are particular to the beauty industry that you’ve had to overcome to get where you are?
The biggest challenge is constantly evolving while staying authentic. The beauty world changes rapidly—new trends, new platforms, but what sustains you is a clear vision and strong values. I learned to adapt without losing my identity.
What would be your advice for aspiring makeup artists?
Be curious, stay humble, and never stop learning. Technique is important, but emotional intelligence is what sets you apart. Observe people, understand their energy, and translate that into beauty.
Should we be changing makeup at a certain age?
Makeup should evolve, not disappear. As we grow, our features and needs change, but beauty has no age limit. It’s about choosing lighter textures, softer tones, and embracing maturity with elegance.
What are some makeup tricks and products that can help anti-age?
Hydration is key, both in skincare and makeup. Use illuminating bases, cream textures, and avoid heavy powders. My Serum Glow and Blur Kit are perfect examples—they smooth, lift, and bring back natural light to the face.
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Images: Supplied
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