Exclusive: There Is No Right or Wrong Way to Do Makeup, Says Shantanu Dhope

Men can wear makeup, and how! Beauty content creator Shantanu Dhope's skill and knowledge will surprise you. From enrolling in a civil engineering course to finding his true calling in makeup, Shantanu has broken stereotypes and created his legacy by playing with colours! His Instagram bio - 'Brown Boys wear makeup too,' reflects the change he has brought through his content! In this conversation, he opens up about his journey as a makeup artist and common mistakes while applying makeup.

Read the edited excerpts from the interview:

How did you get started as a makeup artist?

I developed a passion for makeup from watching my mom apply it, even doing her makeup for special occasions. Eventually, I chose to receive formal training at an academy to turn this interest into a professional career path.

Can you tell us about your makeup philosophy and approach to creating looks?

For me, makeup is all about having fun and creating something new and unique. I have never shied away from colour, and I think that's my favourite part about creating a look. I usually draw a lot of inspiration from fashion as well.

Exclusive: There Is No Right or Wrong Way to Do Makeup, Says Shantanu Dhope
Photo Credit: Shantanu Dhope

What are your favourite makeup products or brands to work with, and why?

Any brand that aligns with my ideologies and provides me with creative freedom is a hit in my book. I also collaborate with brands that consistently engage queer artists, ensuring strong support for the community.

Can you walk us through your process for creating a makeup look from start to finish?

There isn't a singular process I follow, but typically, I sit before my mirror and try to look at all my makeup, searching for a colour that sparks inspiration that day. Then, I begin by applying it to my eyes and incorporating graphic details based on what excites me.

How do you stay current with new makeup trends and techniques?

I keep updated with trends, but I also make sure I do it my way. I feel it's hard to be sustainable by just doing trends. Expressing your individuality while keeping a trend in mind is definitely more important.

What common mistakes do people make when doing their makeup, and how can they avoid them?

A lot of people are scared of the colour on their faces. I really would love to see everyone be more experimental. The one tip I would definitely recommend is getting your colour match on the foundation right by a professional. Nothing worse than a wrong foundation colour.

Exclusive: There Is No Right or Wrong Way to Do Makeup, Says Shantanu Dhope
Photo Credit: Shantanu Dhope

How do you tailor your makeup application to suit different skin types and tones?

Colour theory plays an important role in understanding what looks good on whom. I like to play with orangey, burgundy, and peachy shades on warm skin tones and neutral browns, greys, and muted pinks on cooler skin tones.

Can you share some tips for achieving a flawless makeup application that lasts all day?

Setting your makeup with translucent powder would be my top tip to ensure your makeup lasts all day. Carry a pressed powder for touch-ups and invest in a good eyeliner that doesn't budge. It will go a long way.

What advice would you give someone just starting as a makeup artist?

Understand what excites you and do that. There is no right or wrong way to do makeup, but there definitely are some guidelines you should know as an artist. Find your niche and perfect it. The only way to learn is to practice with as many people as possible and not be scared to try new things.