Sarah Marie is one of the hardest working MUA’s in Sydney. Sarah Marie has worked for blockbuster clients like Chanel, Vogue, Madison and Witchery and currently leads her own team of makeup artists on jobs around Australia and New Zealand.

Hi Sarah, can you tell us a little bit about your smile journey?

I had braces years ago and while they improved my teeth I was never truly happy with them. My bite caused me pressure headaches and I had a crooked tooth which is very visible when I smile. These things made me feel less confident overall, and the constant headaches were a real issue!

During a regular clean with my dentist Dr Joseph Kazzi I mentioned my concerns. I really didn’t want to go through the ordeal of braces again – and I work in beauty and often speak to large groups of people, I felt like they might make me feel more self conscious! Joseph showed me some of the before and after results that could be mine with Invisalign using a computer demonstration. I loved the idea!

I signed up the same day and I havent looked back. My confidence in my smile is at an all time high – the crooked tooth is getting straighter and my bite alignment is improving. I get far less headaches and feel way more comfortable!

For you, what has been the main benefit of Invisalign?

For me it was really about being able to smile with confidence and correct my bite. I’ve seen and felt a big difference already and I’m not even finished my treatment. The other huge bonus compared to other treatment options is that I can present my makeup workshops and meet with potential clients wearing my trays. I don’t need to feel self conscious at work and having my photo taken and I can speak perfectly clearly.

Now, down to business – we LOVE to know what the pros are using! What are your top five products in your professional kit?

I have so many favorites! I will narrow this down to my five must haves that I think everyone can benefit from – whether its a pro kit or a personal makeup bag.

1. It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer

This product has the best coverage and is also super comfortable to wear under the eyes. It covers dark circles for the fairest of skins down to the darker skin shades. Its also super smoothing and waterproof which is something we all love! Extra tip: Press this in with a moist Beauty Blender sponge for a more flawless finish. If you’re on a budget I have found the Model Rock sponges work just as well!

2. Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

I use this to set makeup lightly over the face or, just on certain areas of the face like under the eyes and on the T-zone for a more natural finish. I personally don’t like to bake loose powder onto the face. Instead apply with a loose powder brush or even a highlighter brush similar to the Zoeva 105 Luxe Highlight.

3. It Cosmetics Contour Palette

Another IT Cosmetics favourite ! I love this powder contour because its great on both the face to contour and eyes as an eye shadow or eye contour. I like to also use this to bronze the face when needed because it gives my clients a whiter and brighter smile. It’s super long wearing and blends like a dream.

4. Tarte Cosmetics Amazonian Clay Foundation

Long wear, full coverage and they have a colour for everyone which for me is most important. You can also mix this with a more dewy foundation or Cover FX custom enhancer drops if you prefer a finish with more a creamy glow.

5. Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray

The ultimate setting spray! I finish off every makeup with 3 spritzes of this. It just gives that extra, no budge wear that really lasts all night.

Finally, what is the one makeup item that makes the biggest difference?

This question is a tricky one for me because, as all of my clients know, I am all about customising and tailoring to each individual’s needs.

It’s always a little different for every client. For myself its an eyebrow pencil because my hair doesn’t grow and without brows my face will have zero frame. For another client that has full brows but tired eyes I would say a concealer, because that will automatically make that person look fresher.

In general though I would have to say a good mascara will always make anyone feel more confident and empowered. I don’t know anyone that doesn’t feel more polished after applying mascara to lift, curl and volumize those windows to the soul.