Jason Delos Reyes on Why Great Makeup Artistry Is All About Versatility

Beyond certifications, success also depends on grit and discipline. “I’m completely self-taught—I never attended makeup school,” Jason reveals. He began his career to hone his techniques and expand his knowledge, rather than immediately focusing on developing a signature style.

The early years of his career, from 2015 to 2017, coincided with a time when warm tones, bronzed skin, and sun-kissed makeup dominated the beauty scene. “I genuinely enjoyed creating those looks, and over time, they became part of my identity as an artist.”

A visit to Jason’s Instagram account reveals the phrase “for all skin tones” in his bio. It’s a simple but meaningful introduction, especially for an artist who has experienced being boxed into a single look.

“Some clients, and even artists, assumed that I was only good at doing makeup for morenas and doubted if I could work on fair skin. But I believe a professional makeup artist should know how to enhance every face, regardless of skin tone.”

According to Jason, being typecast pushed him to let his work speak louder than others’ assumptions. He did so through years of learning and growth. If you find that being a makeup artist is also written in the stars for you, Jason shares tips to help you explore various styles and earn your clients’ trust.

Makeup is a collaboration between you and your muse. “Building a good relationship with your clients and earning their trust is very important,” Jason shares, adding that this includes being honest with them. “Makeup isn’t one-size-fits-all, so I always give honest advice if I think a certain look will or won’t work for their face, skin, or even the event they’re attending.”

“Setting the right expectations before the makeup session makes the whole experience smoother, and at the same time, my artistry still shines through every look I create.”

There is a certain science behind beauty—makeup can enhance a person’s features when backed by a deep understanding of color, balance, and individual facial characteristics. Managing expectations accordingly makes the experience more seamless for both the artist and the client.

“I believe every makeup artist should have a signature look, but never a templated look,” Jason explains. “Your work should have a recognizable identity, but every client should still look like the best version of themselves—not like they’re wearing the exact same makeup as everyone else.”

This makes it all the more important to study both trending and timeless approaches, establish your preferences as an artist, and understand the techniques behind them. Beauty, much like art, is something you can get better at if you constantly expose yourself to it.

For Jason, keeping an open mind is “the most important thing.” He views social media and the internet as two helpful mediums to catch up with how fast beauty and fashion are evolving. Given its rapid churn, the willingness to learn and adapt is a non-negotiable when pursuing this career. “I always tell myself to be like a sponge—absorb new techniques, trends, and ideas. Awareness is key. Staying curious and never thinking you’ve learned everything is what keeps you growing.”

Jason also finds inspiration in his fellow makeup artists. “The beauty industry is filled with incredibly talented and creative people, and their passion pushes me to become even better.” Runway shows in the Philippines and around the world also offer fresh and unconventional ideas. Beyond these, he suggests looking to magazine covers, fashion editorials, and beauty campaigns for inspiration.

As a self-taught makeup artist, Jason credits “practice, research, and constant experimentation” for helping him develop his skills—three things that continue to shape his craft today. “There will be challenges and setbacks, but don’t give up,” he reminds aspiring makeup artists. “Keep learning, keep listening, and stay humble.”

“Your signature style will naturally develop over time, but remember: a signature style should never limit your versatility. The best makeup artists are the ones who can adapt while still making every look feel uniquely their own.”