Clarins’ New Face Of Makeup: Vanessa Ortiz Steps Into The Spotlight

With more than two decades of artistry under her belt and a résumé that spans New York Fashion Week, Cirque du Soleil, and Vogue Italy, Vanessa Ortiz has now taken on a new role as Clarins Canada’s very first National Makeup Artist. Known for her fresh, radiant, and confidence-boosting approach to beauty, Vanessa is set to lead the brand into an exciting new chapter in makeup. We sat down with her to talk artistry, empowerment, and what this milestone means for Clarins and for Canadian beauty lovers alike. —Noa Nichol

You’ve worked with some of the most iconic beauty brands and artists in the world. What drew you to join Clarins, and what excites you most about this new role as National Makeup Artist?

I’ve reached a point in my career where I really wanted to challenge myself and be part of a brand where I felt I could make a real impact. As a makeup artist, I’ve always gravitated toward brands that are deeply rooted in artistry. When I came across this role, I knew right away it was something completely different from anything I’d done before, and that excited me.

I’ve always had a bit of a rebellious streak I love pushing boundaries. When people think of Clarins, I might not be the first image that comes to mind. I love full glam, I have tattoos and piercings, and I’m drawn to edgy looks. Clarins, on the other hand, has always been known for its elegance, its chic aesthetic, and of course, its incredible skincare.

But after experiencing the makeup line firsthand, I thought to myself: it’s time for a makeup revolution at Clarins and I know I’m the person to lead that charge. I’m genuinely excited to show Canada that Clarins makeup is so much more than the ‘clean girl’ aesthetic. Yes, it’s beautiful, healthy skin. Yes, it’s powered by incredible formulations. But it’s also versatile whether you’re going for natural and glowing, adding a bit of edge, or going full glam.

I’m proud to represent a brand who not only has beautiful DNA but also that is ready to evolve. I am excited at the idea of using my experience to show what we bring to the table.

 Your career has spanned everything from New York Fashion Week to Cirque du Soleil. How have these vastly different creative environments shaped your artistry and approach to makeup?

For me, at the end of the day, makeup artistry is a deeply human art. It’s about connection about truly seeing the person in your chair and bringing their vision or character to life. Whether it’s helping a bride feel her most beautiful as she walks down the aisle or transforming an acrobat, so she fully embodies her role on stage, the emotional impact is always at the heart of it.

What I love most is my ability to adapt to become a chameleon and create vastly different styles depending on the person, the story, or the moment. That versatility is what keeps this career exciting for me, and it’s what continues to push me creatively every single day.

You’ve said makeup is an “art of self-expression, free from dogma and rigidity.” How do you bring that philosophy to life when working with clients and teaching techniques?

When it comes to rules in makeup, I simply don’t believe in them because art is art.

Especially when I’m teaching, I always say: there are basic guidelines, sure, but that doesn’t mean they’re absolute.

Yes, lipstick is traditionally made for lips but who says you can’t dab a little on the cheeks for a pop of color? Brow pencils are designed for brows, but why not use a blue mascara to create the most stunning blue brow?

Makeup is supposed to be fun. It’s playful, expressive, and personal. The beauty of it is that you can make it whatever you want it to be. That freedom is what makes it magical.

That touching moment you shared with the nervous young model really speaks to the emotional impact of makeup. How do you see makeup influencing confidence beyond the surface?

The most beautiful thing about makeup is its power to transform how we feel.

We all have those days maybe our hair isn’t cooperating, a pimple shows up at the worst time, or we’re just not feeling like ourselves. But I’ve seen, time and time again, how a little makeup can completely shift someone’s energy.

I’ve watched women with slouched shoulders stand a little taller after seeing themselves all made up. I’ve seen confidence emerge in the most timid clients. I’ve seen women leave their appointment with a spark in their eyes and a pep in their step.

Because makeup is so much more than a painted face or a cute lipstick, it’s about emotion. It’s about feeling powerful, beautiful, and seen

Clarins is known for its plant-based, responsible beauty ethos. How do you integrate that commitment to sustainability and wellness into your makeup artistry?

As an artist, I’ve always believed that what we put on our skin is just as important as what we put into our bodies. That’s why working with Clarins feels so aligned with my values. The brand’s commitment to plant-based ingredients, sustainability, and responsible beauty allows me to create beautiful looks without compromising on wellness or ethics.

In my artistry, I integrate this mindset by being more intentional with the products I use, not just in terms of performance, but also in how they care for the skin and the planet. I love that Clarins makeup is skincare-infused, so I know I’m nourishing the skin while enhancing it. Whether I’m creating a full-glam moment or a soft, natural glow, I know I’m using formulas that are clean, effective, and created with integrity.

It also sparks great conversations with clients, they’re increasingly curious about what’s in their products and where they come from. Being able to say, ‘This is plant-powered, responsibly sourced, and actually good for your skin,’ adds another layer of trust and connection to the experience.

You’ve mastered creating fresh, radiant, and bold looks. What are your go-to tips for achieving each of those styles in a way that’s effortless and wearable?

To create the perfect soft, radiant look, my number one tip is to be intentional about where you place your glow. Instead of applying radiance all over the face which can sometimes make the skin look oily focus on highlighting specific points like the high points of the cheeks, the bridge of the nose, and the cupid’s bow. The SOS Primer 00 is great to get that lit-from-within glow without overdoing it.

When it comes to a bold look, it’s all about going for it and owning it! I know a lot of people want to try bold colors but feel a little intimidated. A great way to ease into it is by using a bold eyeliner instead of committing to a full lid of color. One of my favorite tricks is to keep the overall look neutral and then add a pop of color in the lower waterline. I love to use Clarins waterproof eyeliner in shades 03 Blue orchid or 05 forest to get an edgy, playful vibe while still feeling effortless and wearable. It’s the perfect balance between bold and approachable.

With over 20 years in the industry, what do you think has changed most about beauty standards—and how is Clarins helping to redefine them?

In the last 20 years, beauty has shifted from fitting a mold to celebrating individuality. It’s no longer about one standard it’s about self-expression and confidence.

Clarins is helping redefine beauty by offering versatile products that let people be themselves whether that’s fresh and natural or bold and glam. It’s about enhancing, not hiding, and that’s the future of beauty.

You’ve worked on high-pressure, fast-paced productions. How do you stay creative and composed when time and perfection are both on the line?

In a fast-paced environment, my go-to trick is to choose one focal point and go all in. Whether it’s perfecting the skin and keeping the eyes minimal or creating a bold statement with a graphic liner prioritizing is key. Ask yourself: What do I want this look to say? Then focus your time and energy there for maximum impact, quickly and efficiently.

Education and knowledge-sharing are clearly important to you. What’s one technique or tip you think every person should know, regardless of skill level?

Less is often more , even with full glam! The key is to build in micro layers. Take your time, focus on applying thin, thoughtfully placed products, and let each layer work its magic. It’s all about intention and precision, not piling it on.

As you step into this new chapter with Clarins, what’s your vision for how makeup artistry can empower Canadians across the country?

As I step into this new chapter with Clarins, my vision is to inspire Canadians to see makeup not just as a beauty tool, but as a form of self-expression and empowerment. I want people to feel confident exploring who they are whether that means a natural, radiant look or something bold and expressive.  With Clarins’ skincare powered makeup and commitment to responsible beauty, we’re giving people the freedom to play, to feel good in their skin, and to define beauty on their own terms. My goal is to spark that confidence from coast to coast.