Some artists use a brush and canvas, others use the human face. For Laila Zackaria, makeup was never just a product or profession—it was personal. She discovered her love for it at sixteen, rummaging through her mother’s collection and experimenting with the transformative power of colour and contour. What began as a quiet expression of personality turned into a powerful career that now spans entrepreneurship, education, and global influence.
Laila isn’t just a makeup artist. She’s an advisor, a mentor, and one of the most recognisable beauty influencers in her sphere. “It all started with play,” she says, “but it became a passion and then a purpose. Now, I’m living the dream of working in an industry I love.”
Her approach to makeup is rooted in evolution. From flipping through beauty magazines to attending makeup workshops and events, she has made a habit of staying ahead of trends. “You have to keep your eyes open and your skills sharp. The industry moves fast, and so should you,” she says.
One of her most memorable moments came early on, teaching makeup to mature women. It was a daunting task for someone still finding her voice, but it also became a turning point. “I was terrified I’d mess up,” she admits. “But facing that fear made me stronger. It taught me that helping others feel beautiful is one of the most rewarding things you can do.”
Laila knows that building a career in beauty is not just about skill, it’s about consistency. “That’s the biggest challenge,” she shares. “You have to know your clients, keep up with trends, and constantly deliver. It’s about understanding what people really want.” Her secret lies in studying behaviour, preferences, and the subtle nuances that turn a routine look into a signature moment.
Her own signature is shaped by intuition and experimentation. “At first, I played with styles to find what suited me best. But when it comes to clients, I believe in practicing on as many faces as possible. Every face is different, and understanding those differences is what makes a makeup artist great.”
Social media has been a game changer. With over a decade of experience online, Laila has watched the digital beauty space transform, and she’s ridden that wave to success. “Social media changed everything for me. It opened doors, introduced me to major brands, and took my work worldwide. If you’re not using your platform, you’re missing out.”
Handling diverse opinions comes with the job, and Laila meets them with patience. “Every client is unique. Listening is the key. You may be a professional, but if you don’t hear your client, you’re missing the point.” That principle guides how she balances her creativity with the expectations of those who sit in her chair. “Listen and deliver,” she says simply. “That’s how you get results.”
Her advice to aspiring makeup artists is a mix of realism and motivation. “Always strive to be different. Don’t let anyone tell you your dreams don’t matter. I started from the bottom, and now I’m here. If I can do it, you can too.” She believes in chasing opportunities, stepping into discomfort, and turning vision into action.
And when it comes to what’s next? She won’t give it all away. “I prefer surprises,” she says with a grin. “But I can tell you this, bigger things are coming.”
With every look she creates and every woman she empowers, Laila Zackaria proves that makeup is more than beauty, it’s confidence, expression, and transformation. Her story is not just about cosmetics. It’s about courage, growth, and the art of making others feel seen.
