Exploring Celebrity Makeup Artistry with Genevie Behel

When you think of those iconic red carpet events—the flash of cameras, the stunning gowns, and the perennial question of “Who wore it best?”—it’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement. So, when Lancôme presented an opportunity to learn from celebrity makeup artist Genevie Behel about her A-list clients and how we might recreate those looks, we jumped at the chance.

Genevie’s portfolio includes breathtaking looks for stars like Anna Wintour, Amanda Seyfried, Connie Britton, and Katie Holmes. Her approach? Well, she believes in “strengthening what you already have and making it even more beautiful.” It’s a refreshing take, really, focusing on enhancing natural beauty rather than changing it.

A quirky start to her career came when Genevie spotted ads about makeup artistry in TV Guide. She recalls her big break: her first agent, Timothy Priano, sent her to do Wintour’s makeup without her even knowing who Wintour was at the time—“I didn’t know,” she admitted. Impressed by her work, Wintour kept Behel as her personal makeup artist for five years. It’s funny how chance meetings can change a career path; Julia Roberts, for instance, was a connection made at Susan Sarandon’s wedding.

Spending an afternoon at L’Oréal’s headquarters, the heartbeat of Lancôme since 1935, Behel shared her insights on timeless makeup techniques rooted in years of experience at photoshoots, red carpets, and award shows.

As we wandered through some of her favorite products, she hinted at an exciting summer launch coming soon. “I’m very light,” Behel explained her signature style, favoring a “natural” look that avoids heavy contouring. “I don’t want to change people’s faces. I like to enhance what you have.” This philosophy, I think, is perhaps what draws so many to her work.

Amanda Seyfried’s looks with bold lip colors were a specific highlight for Behel. “If you think your lips look better bold, then go for it!” she encouraged, especially with trends heading into 2024.

Her go-to product? The Lancôme Géni Fique Face Serum, lauded for giving a radiant appearance, especially beneficial for aging skin. Instead of opting for a heavy foundation, she prefers Serum Supertint, which provides buildable coverage that feels lightweight and natural. It’s an interesting approach—applying makeup with fingers or a sponge to maintain flexibility.

If you want to refresh your look throughout the day, she suggests spritzing some rose water and tapping on a bit of Supertint. This kind of practical advice feels, well, genuinely helpful.

Her rapid-drying liquid eyeshadow doubles as a liner and can even serve as a blush—talk about versatility! “I don’t work with most eyeshadows anymore. I’m working with this,” she shared, noting that once it’s on, it stands the test of wear and tear.

For eyelashes, Behel opts for a flutter extension mascara, explaining, “I use brown instead of black for individual lashes, followed by black mascara. It creates volume without looking too obvious.” This method has become a staple for many of her high-profile clients.

When it comes to lips, she emphasizes the importance of using lip liners, noting, “Many skip this step, but it keeps everything in place.” The liners are creamy, matte, and, surprisingly, waterproof—features that can really make a difference.

Looking after the skin is key for Behel, who champions Lancôme’s Genic Face Serum as her ultimate skincare savior, improving elasticity and reducing fine lines. If you’re looking for a trusty product, this may be it.

As for eyeliner, while black is often a go-to, Behel suggests women might consider lighter shades as they age. “I never give black eyeliner to someone a bit older,” she noted, recommending browns or grays instead. The Idôle Liners offer a range of shades perfect for her philosophy of natural enhancement.