In a world where beauty is constantly evolving, makeup artist Sam Visser remains a singular force, blending artistry with instinct, futurism with nostalgia. At just 25, he’s already one of the biggest names in the industry — he frequently paints the faces of Bella Hadid and Alex Cosani. His talents have only been confirmed by a recent appointment as the Global Makeup Artist at YSL. It’s a synergistic partnership — both Visser and the house push a version of beauty that’s cool, sexy, powerful and authentic. Nothing too prescriptive, but beauty for confidence and self expression.
To mark the new job, Visser shared with RUSSH his makeup origin story, creative process, favourite products and plans for the future. The exclusive interview, below.
What does beauty mean to you ?
Beauty, to me, is synonymous with confidence and authenticity. While beauty trends evolve with time, a sense of confidence remains timeless.
What’s your personal philosophy when it comes to makeup?
I always aim to channel the essence of the individual I’m working on; highlighting each person’s unique features while adding my flair for futuristic glamour. For me, makeup is a medium of deep self-expression. It’s a powerful tool that can unlock confidence.
How would you describe your approach or aesthetic?
Intense, daringness, unique, boldness, instinctive and futuristic.
What do you love most about being an artist — what’s the most meaningful part of your work?
The collaborative nature of the work and the joy of seeing someone feel beautiful makes it incredibly fulfilling.
On the other hand, what do you find challenging?
Balancing individual preferences with creative expression…
You’re known for your incredible use of colour in beauty — what’s your method when creating a bright, bold look?
Makeup offers the freedom to explore and innovate. I enjoy drawing inspiration from the individual’s unique features, such as their hair, eye colour, and skin tone, to create a personalised colour story.
Tell me, what was your first YSL Beauty experience?
The first piece of luxury makeup I ever bought was when I was 12. A Sephora opened in my city, so I got a YSL Rouge Volupté lipstick as a gift for my mother. I felt like it was the most beautiful thing I could buy her.
YSL beauty is about power and confidence. How do you channel that into your work?
It strongly aligns with my philosophy of individuality as the first consideration when applying makeup. The purpose I see makeup having is to enhance a person’s natural beauty. Makeup should highlight personality and make a person feel like their best self. That’s quite powerful.
If I’m only buying 3 YSL beauty products, what would you recommend?
So, I love the Touche Éclat Pen for its ability to create a no-makeup look that leaves the skin looking refreshed. The Lash Clash Mascara is also fantastic for achieving bold, voluminous lashes. Lastly, Loveshine in the universal shade #44 Nude Lavallière adds a natural glow, enhancing the lips when worn alone or layered over a lipstick.
What are some current beauty trends or movements that excite you?
I’m excited about the re-ignition of glamour and daring looks beauty looks — the kind of beauty Yves Saint Laurent was famous for in the 70s and 80s.
Also, utilising gender as a lens through which we perceive and create beauty products. I think the future is in accepting that all types of beauty are right and that we are the catalyst for that self-expression. As an artist and creative at YSL for example, ensuring we have products and colours that achieve everything from the most natural of makeup looks to full-on glamour fantasy is important to me.
Finally, what’s your hope for the future of beauty?
My hope for the future of beauty is to see an evolution of beauty ideals that celebrate the unique qualities of individuals. I aspire to see a greater emphasis on personal expression and authenticity, allowing each person to define beauty on their own terms.
Touche Éclat
Loveshine Lipstick
Lash Clash Mascara
Images: supplied, @samvissermakeup
