This Is the Highlighter Lupita Nyong'o's Makeup Artist Uses on Hers

Since breaking onto the scene in 2013, Lupita Nyong'o is an actor we always look forward to seeing on the red carpet. The star of the upcoming movie, Black Panther, loves to have fun with her beauty and fashion choices, playing with vibrant colors on her eyes and lips (and sometimes both), experimenting with a variety of hairstyles and accessories, and often going with dresses from designers we don't usually see on the red carpet. And the man behind many of those bold makeup looks is Nick Barose, a long-time Allure friend, and contributor. And for the 2018 SAG Awards, Barose graciously gave us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the getting ready process. "I wanted to play off the iridescent sheen in her dress, which reminded me of a sleek serpent," says Barose. So I did that by adding shine on her lids and a winged liner with a serpent-like quality to it." See how the makeup look came together — as well as what it's like getting an A-lister ready before a big event (hint, chocolate is involved) — below.
                                                     

Prep Work
"I always do a bit of a sketch beforehand, so I have an idea of what I want the makeup to look like," says Barose. "And I always have a few options ready so that I can evolve the look as I'm applying it. You can’t always be 100-percent married to one idea because so much can change during the prep process. You have to play as you go along, I find it always works out best that way."

Glow Up
Barose used the brand new Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Custom Drops in Bronze Glow (Nyong'o's exact shade), tapping it along her cheekbones. Above, Barose holds the new product featuring the actress's autograph.

Pro Tip
To create the silvery shadow look on Nyong'o, Barose used Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadows in All that Shimmers and It List, applying the pressed powders with a dampened brush. "When playing with metallic shadows, a formula that can be used wet is key," says Barose. "When you use them wet, the shine looks even shinier."

Nearly Done
"Adding some last minute touch ups before she heads out. She's absolutely glowing!"