Classic & Legendary:
* Kevyn Aucoin: (deceased) Revolutionized makeup in the 80s and 90s. Known for contouring, sculpting, and natural beauty. Wrote several influential books, including "The Art of Makeup."
* Pat McGrath: Considered one of the most influential makeup artists of all time. Known for her avant-garde looks, editorial work, runway shows, and her own makeup line, Pat McGrath Labs.
* Dick Smith: (deceased) A legendary special effects makeup artist. Did amazing work on films like *The Exorcist*, *Little Big Man*, and *Amadeus.*
Contemporary & Highly Sought-After:
* Charlotte Tilbury: British makeup artist and entrepreneur. Known for her glamorous, signature "Pillow Talk" look and her successful makeup brand, Charlotte Tilbury Beauty.
* Lisa Eldridge: British makeup artist, author, and Lancôme's Global Creative Director. Known for her elegant, classic looks and her informative YouTube channel.
* Mario Dedivanovic: Kim Kardashian's longtime makeup artist, known for popularizing contouring techniques. Runs "Makeup by Mario" brand.
* Hung Vanngo: Works with celebrities like Selena Gomez, Jennifer Lopez, and Julianne Moore. Known for creating flawless skin and enhancing natural beauty.
* Patrick Ta: Known for his glowing, bronzed looks and collaborations with celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Rihanna, and Ariana Grande. He also has his own makeup brand.
* Sam Fine: Considered an icon in the beauty industry, especially for his work with women of color. Worked with Iman, Tyra Banks and many other Black Supermodels
Editorial & High Fashion:
* Val Garland: Known for her experimental and avant-garde looks in high fashion editorials and runway shows.
* Kabuki: Known for his creative, colorful, and often fantastical makeup looks.
* Peter Philips: The Creative and Image Director for Dior Makeup. Known for his innovative and artistic creations.
Social Media Influencers & YouTubers:
* NikkieTutorials (Nikkie de Jager): Dutch makeup artist known for her transformation videos and advocacy for makeup positivity.
* James Charles: Makeup artist and beauty influencer known for his YouTube tutorials and collaborations with celebrities.
* Jeffree Star: (Controversial figure) Makeup artist, entrepreneur, and YouTuber known for his bold looks and his makeup brand, Jeffree Star Cosmetics.
* Bretman Rock: Filipino-American beauty influencer and makeup artist known for his comedic style and makeup tutorials.
Special Effects/Prosthetics:
* Rick Baker: Special effects makeup artist with an incredible career. Did work for films like *An American Werewolf in London*, *Michael Jackson's Thriller*, and *Men in Black.*
* Ve Neill: Known for her work on *Beetlejuice*, *Edward Scissorhands*, *Mrs. Doubtfire*, and the *Pirates of the Caribbean* franchise.
* Greg Cannom: Did special effects makeup on *Mrs. Doubtfire*, *The Mask*, *A Beautiful Mind*, and *Click*.
This list isn't exhaustive, but it provides a good starting point for exploring the diverse and talented world of makeup artists. Each of these artists has a unique style and expertise, and their work has significantly impacted the beauty industry and popular culture.