48. How to become a Television MUA with Helen Dowsley.
1st August 2023
Show notes
The Makeup Insider is a fortnightly podcast exploring the life and career of makeup artists, hosted by freelance MUA Vanessa Barney. This week: Getting personal with Helen Dowsley.
Helen is a makeup artist and hairstylist who predominantly works in the reality television industry. She has had a successful career and has worked on popular shows such as The Bachelor and F Boys, as well as with celebrities like Robbie Williams, Ed Sheeran, and Katy Perry.
Helen shared her fascinating journey and dropped some incredible advice on how to break into the makeup industry and thrive in it. Here are three takeaways you won't want to miss:
Find Your Tribe:
Helen emphasised the importance of surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who truly understand and appreciate your creative spirit. When you find your people, you'll feel seen, heard, and supported. So don't be afraid to seek out those who share your passion and build a network of fellow artists who inspire you every day.
Never Stop Learning:
With over 30 years of experience under her belt, Helen reminded us that even seasoned professionals can still learn something new every day. No matter how much you think you know, there's always room for growth and improvement. So stay curious, stay open-minded, and never stop seeking opportunities to expand your skills and knowledge.
Embrace Opportunities:
Helen's story is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities when they arise. She shared a fun anecdote about a chance encounter that led to a career-changing opportunity. So always be ready to say "yes" to new experiences, even if they seem unexpected or out of your comfort zone. You never know where they might lead you!
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Helen Dowsley works in reality TV.
Helen Dowsley is a makeup artist and hairstylist who predominantly works in the reality television industry. She has had a successful career and has worked on popular shows such as The Bachelor and F Boys, as well as with celebrities like Robbie Williams, Ed Sheeran, and Katy Perry.
Helen's journey into the reality TV industry began when she was offered a job on a reality show. Initially, there was some scepticism from her colleagues, as reality TV was not as respected or prestigious as other areas of the industry. However, Helen decided to take the opportunity and has since thrived in this field.
In addition to her work in reality TV, Helen has also worked in fashion and celebrity makeup. When she was younger, she did a lot of fashion and magazine shoots, often travelling to different locations around the world. These shoots would involve meeting celebrities and capturing their life stories for magazine features.
Helen's transition into reality TV came about through a combination of circumstances and opportunities. She was part of a talented team that included a stylist and photographer, and they often worked together on various projects. One day, while on a plane after completing a shoot in the country, Helen mentioned to the photographer, Phil Carson, that she had been offered a job on a reality show. At the time, reality TV was not highly regarded, and Phil expressed his disbelief that Helen would consider taking such a job.
However, as fate would have it, 10 years later, Helen found herself working on a photo shoot for a popular magazine with the Bachelorette, and Phil was the photographer for the series. It was a full-circle moment, and Helen's success in the reality TV industry proved that she had made the right decision to pursue this path.
Helen's work in reality TV involves creating makeup and hairstyles for the contestants and hosts of the shows. This often requires her to work quickly and efficiently, as there is limited time for touch-ups and changes. She has developed a skill for creating camera-ready looks that enhance the contestants' features and fit the show's aesthetic.
In addition to her work in reality TV, Helen is also active on social media, particularly Instagram. She shares her work and makeup tips with her followers, and she can be found under the handle @helendowsley. She also enjoys using TikTok as a form of relaxation and entertainment, where she watches animal videos and other random content.
Overall, Helen Dowsley's career in reality TV is a testament to her talent and versatility as a makeup artist and hairstylist. She has successfully navigated the industry, working with celebrities and on popular shows, and continues to thrive in her chosen field. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring makeup artists and industry professionals, showing that with passion and determination, success can be achieved in any area of the industry.
Helen Dowsley's early makeup career in LA was a journey filled with determination, risk-taking, and a passion for her craft. In a podcast transcript, she recounts her experiences of starting her career in the United States, despite not having any connections or financial support.
Helen's story begins with her knocking on Jeff Angel's door, a makeup artist who had worked with Bette Midler. She introduces herself as Helen Dowsley from Australia, but Jeff mistakenly assumes she is from Austria. Despite the confusion, Helen convinces Jeff to let her work for free and sleep on his couch. This bold move showcases Helen's determination to pursue her dreams and take advantage of any opportunity that comes her way.
She then shares how she and another girl took a similar approach, travelling to different cities and offering their services as makeup artists. Helen's strong accent prevented her from talking much, as she knew that her skills and actions spoke louder than words. This resourcefulness allowed her to work backstage at fashion shows in Milan, despite not being officially invited or recognized.
Helen's journey highlights the importance of seizing opportunities and taking risks in the pursuit of one's dreams. She emphasises the significance of travel and gaining firsthand experience in different fashion and entertainment hubs. Her willingness to work for free and learn from established professionals showcases her dedication and passion for her craft.
Throughout her early career, Helen witnessed the evolution of makeup techniques and products. She mentions how makeup used to be much thicker, leading to the practice of "baking" the makeup by applying excessive powder to prevent wetness. However, she acknowledges that the industry has become more scientific and advanced, with products now being more refined and efficient. Helen's ability to adapt to changing trends and techniques demonstrates her versatility and commitment to staying relevant in the industry.
Reflecting on her journey, Helen expresses some regrets about not starting her YouTube channel earlier. She acknowledges that social media has become a powerful tool for makeup artists to showcase their skills and build their platforms. However, she remains grateful for the opportunities she has had and acknowledges that one can never truly predict the outcome of different choices and paths taken.
Helen’s early makeup career in LA exemplifies the determination, resourcefulness, and passion required to succeed in the industry. Her willingness to take risks, work for free, and learn from established professionals allowed her to gain invaluable experience and build a solid foundation for her career. Helen's story serves as an inspiration to aspiring makeup artists, emphasising the importance of seizing opportunities, adapting to changing trends, and continuously honing one's skills.
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