Among all our #CalyxtaGirl shoots, it was particularly interesting and fun to watch how Mac Igarta and Martine Cajucom instantly teamed up then-and-there on how to go about the four makeup looks we had for the day. Upon opening his beauty train, Martine was first to check out Mac’s newest makeup hauls from his recent trips out-of-the-country, which got her all giddy and excited! Working with him for the first time, it’s really no surprise why many top celebrities come to him for a glam session since he’s such a breeze to work with. Among the many stars that he regularly works with (besides Martine!), his all-star portfolio also includes our September 2017 #CalyxtaGirl, Lauren Reid, and July 2017 #CalyxtaGirl, Jess Wilson.
Get to know Mac Igarta more by reading up on our quick chat with this amazing makeup artist!
How did it all start for you?
It was back in 2009 when I had my “quarter-life crisis.” I was working for a BPO company and I had uncertainties about my future. Makeup was a hobby at first but then I realized, it’s something that I love to do, which doesn’t feel like work at all. The moment I figured that out, I went to a makeup school to study and as they say, the rest is history.
What do you love most about your job?
Oh, the perks of traveling the world! I am always excited whenever we have work out-of-town or out-of-the country.
What do you love most about makeup?
What I love most about makeup is the power to give confidence to a person—and with confidence, you became limitless and everything seems possible.
Is this the career you’ve always wanted to pursue? Why? Why not?
At first, I never really thought of it as a career. I started as a call center agent and makeup was a hobby at that time. I met aspiring makeup artists and that’s when I became more engaged with makeup. I pursued a formal training and everything else just followed through.
Name three projects you’re really proud of.
One of the projects I am really proud of is the Master Facial Wash TV/Print Ad because it focuses more on James Reid’s face. The makeup had to be really natural and flawless. I am also proud of “Dugong Buhay,” the first teleserye I did back in 2013, which really trained me how to deal with people in the industry and polished my TV makeup. Last, but not the least is the JaDine World tour—it took me to different places I never thought I’d be.
What is the best advice that you’ve received about makeup?
Stay true to your artistry. Know your strengths and weaknesses and never stop growing. Continue to study and learn. Another advice that I won’t forget is to stay grounded.
Other than makeup, what are your other interests/hobbies?
I love traveling. One of the best experiences are the ones I did alone.
What do you do in your spare time?
I usually rest and go to spas to relax. I also watch movies with my family or friends. It’s also the time for me to catch up with friends.
For Martine’s makeup looks, can you give us tips/techniques on how to achieve the looks?
It was a Mac x Martine collaboration. Hahaha. Martine is a peach lover—that’s the color we love to play with. For her look, I added brown tones to give a burnt peach eyeshadow.
Artist Stats:
Skin Type: Combination (Normal to Oily)
Hair Type: Naturally Straight with Body
Can’t Live Without: Skin Care!!!
Favorite Calyxta Find: All the lipstick finds! ❤️
Contact Details:
Mobile Number: 0915-176-7765
Email: igarta.mac@gmail.com
Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @mac_igarta
Text by: Maan Fernandez