Jumana Mohammed Redha Al Lawati’s passion for makeup began as a hobby when she was just a kid. Over time, her focus shifted to other hobbies and interests, but her love for makeup artistry remained in her heart. She says she didn’t plan for it, but it was destined to be her outlet of creativity, one she enjoys very much and excels at, even to this day. On the other hand, having majored in journalism and media, she also works full time as a journalist at a local electronic newspaper. Read on to know more about her journey…
What challenges did you face when starting off as a makeup artist?
Obstacles exist and differ from person to person. For me, it was mainly financial, and I would like to thank my mother for believing in me and supporting me. Also, starting off, it was difficult for me to find models in Oman. Back then, all the well-known makeup artists with beauty salons used to invest in models outside of Oman for photo shoots. Obviously, as a young student this was not an option for me. Subsequently, I was occupied with my education and other stuff happening in my life, which led to me entering the social media sphere a little late, though it was seen as the golden opportunity for people to showcase their work and get noticed. So, here I am focusing on Instagram. Getting noticed and spreading word about your work is not impossible, but it requires a lot of effort and hard work.
What is Jumana Al Lawati’s signature makeup style quotient?
I do various techniques and styles in my photo shoots; however, on a personal note I tend to like subtle makeup. I play with colours, but most importantly I make sure that the skin looks as natural as possible. I try to avoid using high coverage foundations unless necessary. I also love glitter and just looking at different glittery colours makes my heart skip a beat; that’s why I have fewer matte looks than others.
The festive season is here – what should people in Oman do to keep looking and feeling their best?
Skincare comes first and last. And I don’t mean investing in expensive creams and cosmetics. I mean in terms of drinking water as a start and applying a medical moisturiser for face, body, under-eyes and lips. The best makeup won’t look as good on tired, dry and dull skin with acne and other skin problems, as it would look on healthy skin. That’s why I would like to emphasise on using a sun-block or sunscreen too.
What three makeup products should one never leave the home without?
Personally, I don’t think there is any problem going out without any makeup on your face or in your bag. When the art of makeup clashes with self confidence it becomes a disadvantage to the person. However, I do understand that makeup makes some people happy without self confidence issues. For the ones who like to go out with makeup on, I would recommend them to have a lip moisturiser, a natural lipstick colour that goes with every outfit and a bright blush colour on hand.
Give us some makeup tips that one could never go wrong with.
Invest in eyeshadow palettes that come with a mix of powder and cream shadows and glitter, available in most brands. Just apply a little on your eyelids with your finger, some mascara and it will give you a great look.
Another suggestion – if you find it difficult to blend your contour, mix a few drops of face oil with your foundation and apply just a bit on the contour and blend it lightly with a circular motion without applying hard pressure on the brush and you will definitely like the end result.
Do you offer special packages during the festive season?
Yes, I do! During December and January, I offer special-occasions makeup package with lashes and daily contact lenses. It will include some special offers for those celebrating Christmas.
What is trending in the beauty and makeup world at the moment?
Classic makeup looks will always stay in the lead for all seasons; however, neon colours are trending again with different techniques matching this era.
What is your go-to festive season makeup?
A lot of highlighter with red or burgundy lips suits this season perfectly!
What are your aspirations and future plans?
For now, I am trying my best to give my art a lot more time and effort in order to get to a place where I can balance it with my job. As for my future plans, I would rather let my work do the talking for me.
