Q+A with Celebrity Makeup Artist Tobi Henney

Tobi Henney is a celebrity makeup artist who originally hails from Sydney, Australia. Her impressive client list includes famous faces like Megan Fox, Charlotte Lawrence, and Ashley Graham, and she's had her work featured not only in campaigns for brands like Dior and Louis Vuitton, but also can be seen across top publications like Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, among countless others. No stranger to sharing her talents with others, Tobi often creates content for Byrdie and Who What Wear, and now sits down with us to give us the chance to learn about her career and favorite products. Read on for more!

Q: How did you get into makeup?

I started by assisting the top artists in Australia. From there I did a tonne of test shoots and would do weddings and events to pay the bills.

Q: How would you describe your style as a makeup artist?

I would say a natural, flawless look, which makes my clients look like the best version of themselves.

Q: Your looks are known for being all about flawless, glowing skin. What are your go-to products to ensure this result?

Victoria Beckham Cell Rejuvenating Primer in Golden, Augustinus Bader The Cream,
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Opal, Tom Ford Shade & Illuminate, Ilia Multi-Stick, and NARS Orgasm Blush.

Q: When you think of all of the looks you’ve created, is there a favorite that comes to mind? What is it?

Barbara Palvin’s feline eye look I did in Milan when she sat front row for Versace in February 2020.

Q: What do you love most about your work?

I love being creative and making my girls look and feel amazing. I also love the energy and the incredible people I get to meet. The travel has been fun too! I’ve been to some places I’d never dream that would go to.

Q: From where, and from whom, do you find inspiration?

I am definitely drawn to colours and from a colour I can envision an entire look. I also love looking at art. My fave artist is Pablo Picasso.

Q: What are some essential products you always keep in your kit?

Tweezerman tweezers, Japonesque brushes, Charlotte Tilbury and NARS lipsticks, Tom Ford liners, Armani Luminous Silk, La Mer eye cream, Tatcha face masks.

Q: What makeup trends do you foresee being big in 2021? Are there any specific ones you’re excited to try yourself and on your clients?

Chic flawless looks never go out of style. I think this year we will be playing with color, especially in the neutral tones and monochromatic looks.

Rapid Fire Round

Q: Hairstylist partner in crime:

I have so many! Reece Walker, Joseph Maine, Owen Gould, Peter Luxe, Ben Talbott, and Jacob Rozenberg, just to name a few.

Q: Product you can’t leave home without:

Lip balm by Chanel.

Q: Favorite drugstore find or budget find:

Nivea body cream.

Q: Worth the splurge:

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream. It makes your skin super juicy and hydrated when you sleep in it.

Q: Recent discovery:

I am loving the new Byredo mascara! It creates the most incredible lashes.

Q: Brand you wish more people knew about:

Elle Effect — this is the best body bronzing/glowing cream that can be applied before a red carpet, event, or night out. They also have one of the best tans on the market and it smells like roses.

Q: Favorite lipstick:

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk.

Q: Your last beauty empty:

Sisley Body Cream.

For more of Tobi's favorite products, check out her shop below: