Meet Des'ree

When did you start experimenting with makeup?

I started doing glam makeup after graduating high school in 2016. But I took an interest in special effects makeup in 2020.

How long do your more intricate looks take to create? 

Big transformations can take 7-10 hours. The longest I’ve ever spent on a look was 12 hours. If it involves prosthetics, I take one or two days to plan, two or three days to create the prosthetic and a day to put the look together and create the body paint.

What does makeup mean to you?

To me, makeup is Art. It’s a form of expression where I can be as imaginative as I want, and it’s sometimes a way to de-stress.

What's your favourite album? Has it ever influenced a look? 

I don’t think I have a favourite. I listen to a lot of different music. Currently I’ve been listening to Nonsense by Sabrina Carpenter and Paint the Town Red by Doja Cat.

Favourite creators? 

• Jackie Aina

• NikkieTutorials

• Khaleesiisaa

• Madeyewlook

Favourite film / TV show? Has it ever influenced a look? 

One of my favourite shows is The Big Bang Theory. There’s an animated show I used to watch, Tales of Arcadia, while creating some of my looks. It inspired this.

Eyeshadow or lipstick?

Eyeshadow.

Kit you can't work without.

mehron makeup paint palettes are a must have for body painting. Elmer’s glue to block out brows and Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Primer and Urban Decay Setting Spray.

If you could learn an animal's language, what would it be? 

Dolphins are cool. I’ve learnt that they are really social and intelligent, so being able to speak to them would be amazing because I’d get to learn more about them.

Top tip as a creator?

Go for it!! Get out of your comfort zone. Putting yourself out there on the internet can be scary, but if you want to achieve anything you have to take the first step.

What inspired you to recreate aurora borealis?

I’ve always been fascinated by the northern lights. I find their colours mesmerising.

Did you enjoy working with us – honest?

I’ve always been a lover of nature. Ninety per cent of the time it’s where I get my inspiration. So, getting the chance to work with On the Edge was amazing!