Isamaya Ffrench, a name synonymous with cutting-edge beauty, is known for her bold and transformative work as a makeup artist, founder of her eponymous brand, and creative visionary. At just 35, Isamaya has lived many lives: from training as a competitive high-board diver at the age of seven to dancing, practicing mixed martial arts, and eventually reshaping the beauty industry. Today, she leads Isamaya, a beauty brand launched in 2022, alongside an illustrious career working with Burberry, Off-White, and Byredo, creating runway looks for brands like Chet Lo and Thom Browne, and collaborating with celebs like Lily-Rose Depp and Charli XCX.
Last month, Isamaya’s namesake brand launched its Core Collection, a high-performance line of complexion boosters and color correctors infused with skincare benefits. The collection caters to all skin tones and types, including mature skin, reflecting Isamaya’s holistic approach to beauty. With a packed schedule, Isamaya recently sat down with Harper’s Bazaar to reveal her go-to beauty products and her thoughts on the future of makeup trends.
On Her Personal Beauty Philosophy
“Even though my work is often avant-garde and creative, I myself am quite a ‘natural’ person,” says Isamaya. “It’s a bit like chefs who eat fast food. I invest time in treatments and products, but I tend to be on the go, so taking care of the basics is fundamental to my skin and well-being.”
On Her Creative Journey
For Isamaya, makeup was always something external that fascinated her, even though she grew up in a family of non-makeup wearers. “I bought Kevyn Aucoin’s Making Faces when I was about seven, and that was the bible for me. I loved how makeup had the power to transform. I was more expressive with my hair, but makeup became a way to enhance confidence. I remember working with Nike on a collaboration and witnessing athletes take makeup seriously, not as an accessory, but as a tool to elevate performance and confidence.”
On Her Skincare Routine
When it comes to skincare, Isamaya’s routine is simple yet effective. “At night, I use the AllSkin Med pigment serum and rotate between Alpha-H and Dr. Sam’s cleansers. I love Medik8 products and Medicube pore refining pads. For SPF, I swear by Gezeiten and Heliocare.” She also swears by gua sha facials, having launched a massage tool in collaboration with FaceGym. “Boosting circulation and lymphatic drainage is key for my skin,” she shares.
On Professional Treatments
Isamaya’s skin routine is elevated with professional treatments. “I see Dr. Karen Doherty for polynucleotides and Neogen Plasma treatments, which have done wonders for my skin. I also love FaceGym for facial workouts and occasionally visit specialists for laser treatments.”
On Hair Care
Her hair is just as meticulously cared for as her skin. “I see Alex Brownsell at Bleach London for frequent colorings. Right now, I’m ginger and use their Awkward Peach Shampoo and Conditioner to keep the vibrancy. I also rely on the Dyson Airwrap for styling.”
On Her Makeup Routine
Isamaya keeps her own makeup routine minimal. “I love avant-garde looks on others, but I keep it clean and polished for myself. Less is more. I focus on skincare health and use light coverage products. I rarely wear full-coverage foundation. Instead, I use my own color-correcting serums and a bit of concealer for a fresh, natural look.”
On Movement and Wellness
Fitness plays a crucial role in her life. “I do a lot of yoga and reformer pilates. Weight-bearing exercises are essential for my body, especially as a woman. They keep me grounded and feeling my best.”
On Slowing Down
Living in a fast-paced environment, Isamaya has learned the importance of slowing down. “I’m much better at switching off now, but it comes with age. My three cats help me relax too!”
On Fragrance
Isamaya’s scent collection includes her favorites from Vyrao and Aeir, two innovative fragrance brands. “I also love Rook Perfumes. They have a strange scent library, and Undergrowth is my favorite—it smells like soil.”
On Her Core Collection
“Isamaya used to be driven by creativity and world-building, but with the launch of the Core Collection, I wanted to create skincare-infused makeup. I’m a skincare fanatic and fascinated by innovation. All of my products have high levels of active ingredients, and I’m always thinking about what I and the people around me need.”
On Her Favorite Runway Show
Working with Junya Watanabe has been a highlight in her career. “I’ve collaborated with Junya for over a decade. He challenges me to create the unexpected, always asking me to dive deep into the mood and storytelling of the show.”
On Tweakment Trends
“Trends are transient. People may remodel their faces or try extreme beauty trends, but most of it is temporary. We are all uniquely beautiful, and the best thing you can do is celebrate that. Trends come and go, but embracing your own face is timeless.”
Isamaya Ffrench’s beauty routine reflects her holistic approach to self-care and artistry. Through her work, she continues to break boundaries, redefining what beauty means while empowering others to embrace their own natural beauty.
