First Look Fridays: Makeup Artist and Hairstylist Brandalyn Fulton

As soon as I discovered Brandalyn Fulton, I knew I'd happened upon a beauty goldmine. Brandalyn works as a hairstylist and makeup artist for the theater, and this beauty chick -- who grew up doing theater! -- is super excited to bring you today's First Look Fridays. Read on to find out how she creates the look for a character, the serum she can't live without and so much more.

Can you tell me a bit about yourself?
I'm from Southfield, Michigan. I went to college at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and graduated in 2008. I moved to New York in 2009.

How did you first become interested in beauty, and what led you to become a makeup artist and hairstylist?
I just needed a job in college and so I started working at a makeup counter my sophomore year. I didn't know I had such talent and creativity. I became so consumed with beauty and makeup that I stopped attending my college courses. All I wanted to do was makeup and constantly found myself practicing makeup. I attended the International Beauty Show and the first ever Makeup Show in 2005. I saw makeup brands that were foreign to me. I saw celebrity makeup artists. I saw people having fun and doing what they loved. This was a pivotal moment for me and a clear indicator that I could make a career out of being a makeup artist.

I have always been pretty good at doing my own hair. I wanted to incorporate makeup in my collegiate program so I started working backstage on theatrical productions in the Wig and Makeup Department at the University of Michigan to finish my degree. From there I began to hone my hairstyling skills and became extremely good in wig styling and maintenance.

As a former theater performer, I absolutely love that you've worked everywhere from Juilliard to Carnegie Hall. What do you love about working on shows -- and how do you prepare for them and create various characters' looks?
When creating a look for a character, a number of people are involved in the process: the director, the costume designer, the wig and/or makeup designer, and the actor. Usually there might also be a wig and/or makeup artist or supervisor involved in the mix. This is the person responsible for actually applying the wig and makeup design or could be teaching the actor how to achieve it on their own. The character is developed by the director and the actor in rehearsal. The costume designer and wig/makeup designer create a look that is based on how the character is perceived in their role. Many things can influence this portrayal (i.e. how the characters talks and interacts with other characters, where they are from, their age, socio economic status, time and place). During several production meetings prior to the work hitting the stage ideas and sketches are discussed. Pictorial research is used as a reference and then a decision is usually made based on what is physically feasible to achieve and what makes the actor the most comfortable.

I love working in theater because I am a small part of something so big! Every night we create an atmosphere for people to enjoy, sing along, reflect, be happy, or sometimes sad. I just love being a part of the creative process.

What are your top 5 favorite products and why?
This can change depending on the year...
1) Armour Beauty Lip Gloss: I just love their products. It’s perfect for shoots because it is a high pigmented lip gloss so it lasts longer than usual. The colors are amazing! My favorites are Grace and Ann Margaret.

2) Mario Badescu Herbal Hydrating Serum: This is a great serum to use in my kit because it is just enough hydration for someone that is oily. I also use this in addition to a moisturizer for those that are drier. I think everyone should use a serum!

3) FACE atelier Ultra Matte: Works so well when I am on set. I have found that I do not have to powder my clients as much when misting this spray after makeup. Perfect for people with extremely oily skin or for people who find themselves constantly touching up their makeup.

4) Bumble and bumble Thickening Hairspray: A wonderful all-purpose hairspray! I love to set each piece of hair before curling. It is workable and not extremely drying.

5) Fusion of Color Cosmetics Lip Sass Lip Gloss in Woodbine: It is my new favorite lipgloss. It is the most hydrating gloss I’ve tried in a long time and is a beautiful shade!

What are your top 3 skincare tips?
1) Always moisturize your skin!

2) Always wash your face before bed.

3) Be sure to exfoliate and remove dead skin off your face at least once a week!

How about your top 3 hair tips?
1) Keep your ends trimmed.

2) Condition your hair.

3) I know it's trendy for the fabulous blowout and great flatiron job, but be mindful of how much heat you put on your hair. Too much heat is not a good thing!

Being a makeup artist and hairstylist must be fun, but what do you do in your spare time?
I love makeup and beauty and it is hard for me to separate work, but in my spare time I like to have spa nights at home, read and relax. I enjoy discovering new places and restaurants in New York City. I am still very connected to my hometown and friends so I enjoy catching up with them via phone or Skype.