She speaks about beauty the way some people speak about faith, gently, thoughtfully, and with an understanding that it is never just skin deep. To sit across from her is to realize that her work is not driven by trends or vanity, but by people, stories, and seasons of life. From formal training in Paris to building a brand rooted in Sri Lankan identity, from motherhood to mentorship, her journey is one of quiet determination and deep purpose.
Speaking to The Sun and Daily Mirror, Nazneen Nazeer reflects on craft, care, and the meaning of beauty beyond the surface.
- You have trained at the Make Up Forever Academy in Paris and travelled the world. How do you take those global influences and adapt them to suit Sri Lanka’s unique beauty culture, especially our skin tones and habits?
Working with a global palette is essential for a modern makeup artist. My training in Paris and international exposure gave me a strong understanding of diverse skin tones, textures, and cultural beauty preferences. This becomes especially important at Galle Face Hotel, where we work with clients from many nationalities and cultures on a daily basis. The ability to adapt techniques, colours, and finishes ensures that every client feels understood and confident. While I bring global expertise to my work, I always tailor it to Sri Lankan skin tones, our climate, and our beauty habits. The goal is to create results that feel refined, relevant, and respectful of both local and international expectations.
- You are known for your in-depth consultations before any service. What are some of the biggest myths or misunderstandings you hear from clients about makeup and skincare, and how do you gently set the record straight?
One of the biggest misconceptions I encounter is the expectation of instant or identical results, often influenced by filters, social media trends, or seeing outcomes that do not take skin type, lifestyle, or maintenance into account. Many clients also believe that more products or stronger treatments automatically lead to better results, which is not always true. Through in-depth consultations, I focus on educating clients about their skin, setting realistic timelines, and explaining what a product or service can genuinely achieve. I also emphasize consistency, proper aftercare, and suitability rather than quick fixes. My approach is always gentle and transparent. When clients understand the reason behind a recommendation, trust builds naturally. At The Beauty Quest, consultations are not about selling more, but about aligning expectations with results that are safe, sustainable, and truly beneficial.
- Beauty trends change almost overnight. How do you make sure both you and your team stay ahead, not just in skill, but in creativity?
Trends may change quickly, but strong fundamentals never go out of style. I prioritise continuous training for myself through regular workshops, global masterclasses, and constant exposure to international beauty platforms. Creativity, however, comes from curiosity and observation. We study global trends, but we interpret them through our clients, our climate, and our culture rather than copying them exactly. I encourage my team to experiment, collaborate, and question why a trend works before applying it. At The Beauty Quest, staying ahead is not about chasing trends. It is about evolving creatively while staying grounded in technique, quality, and relevance.
- Bridal makeup is your signature. If you could give every bride one golden rule for her big day, what would it be?
Bridal makeup is not the same as everyday makeup. Some brides prefer a soft, traditional look, while others choose a bold, modern glam. My golden rule is simple, listen to the bride first, then enhance her natural charm with the right balance of expertise and artistry. I also remind brides that makeup alone is not enough. Proper sleep, a balanced diet, and a consistent skincare routine are just as important. A clean, well-prepared canvas allows makeup to sit better, last longer, and look effortless on the big day.
- You work with clients of every skin tone, texture, and concern. How do you approach creating treatments that feel personal and perfect for each individual?
I begin by asking open ended questions about a client’s skin type, concerns, and goals. This creates a dialogue that helps me understand their lifestyle, preferences, and unique challenges. Once I have clarity, I customize treatments to complement their existing skincare routine while addressing their specific needs. The goal is not only to deliver results in the salon, but to empower clients to take control of their skin health at home. Every treatment is designed to feel personal, effective, and sustainable, because no two skins are the same.
- The Beauty Quest is proudly inclusive, offering services for all genders. Have you noticed a shift in how men are embracing beauty and self-care?
Yes, there has been a noticeable shift. Men are becoming more confident about investing in grooming, skincare, and self-care. At The Beauty Quest, we see this as a positive change. Beauty is no longer gender specific. It is about feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin.
- Education is a big part of your ethos. Why do you believe continuous learning is just as important for seasoned professionals as it is for newcomers to the industry?
Continuous learning keeps you sharp, confident, and well informed, regardless of how experienced you are. Beauty is an ever-evolving industry, and staying curious ensures your skills, knowledge, and perspective continue to grow.
Professionals who invest in ongoing education do not just improve their own work, they help raise industry standards and drive innovation. At The Beauty Quest, learning is part of our culture because growth should never stop at any stage of a career.
- You have built your business while raising your child as a single mother. How has that journey shaped your strength and the way you see beauty in others?
I believe you can have it all, just not all at once. That understanding has shaped both my journey and my strength. There are days I do not succeed, and over time I have learned the importance of being kind to myself and honouring different seasons of life. Choosing to change careers was a conscious decision so I could be present for my son while still pursuing my passion. Building The Beauty Quest alongside motherhood has not been easy, but it has been deeply fulfilling. It is the only way I could have balanced both roles and still stayed true to myself. That journey has changed how I see beauty in others. It is no longer about perfection, but about resilience, confidence, and the quiet strength people carry. To me, that is the most beautiful thing of all.
- Relocating The Beauty Quest to the iconic Galle Face Hotel is a major milestone. What emotions did that move bring up for you?
Moving The Beauty Quest to Galle Face Hotel was both humbling and emotional. It felt like a full circle moment, bringing a modern beauty brand into a space rich in history and legacy. More than growth, it represents alignment with timeless Sri Lankan elegance and marks a meaningful new chapter in our journey.
- On the hardest days, when everything felt like too much, what or who was your anchor?
On the hardest days, a simple hug from my son was enough to ground me. My family has always been my anchor. Through the good and the bad, they are who I turn to next, after God. I also had to unlearn an all or nothing mindset. When things felt overwhelming, I reminded myself to anchor in gratitude rather than perfection. That shift made all the difference.
- If you could sit down with the younger you, just starting out, what would you say to her?
I would tell her to trust her inner voice and intuition, they will guide her more than she realizes. I would remind her that saying no is a strength, not a weakness, and that real growth begins when you step outside your comfort zone. Most importantly, I would tell her to value relationships over material things. The people who support, challenge, and stand by you, matter far more than anything you can own. Take the risks, learn from the missteps, and trust that everything unfolds in its own time.
- Having worked with you before, I have seen how deeply your passion runs, far beyond being a beauty consultant. Where does that fire come from?
Passion comes from loving what you do unconditionally. It fuels every action and decision. For me, it is about being authentic, staying true to myself, and building genuine connections with clients through transformative beauty experiences. That connection is what keeps the fire alive.
