Celebrity Make-Up Artist Sheika Daley Takes Us Through Her Beauty Routine

When Sheika Daley isn’t pulling out her brushes on campaigns for luxury brands like Valentino and Bulgari, you’ll find her prepping stars for the Met Gala, using her skills to help them perfectly execute the year’s specified theme. Looking at her work, it’s no surprise to learn that Daley got her creative start as a painter and artist. Now, the face of Daley’s clients is her canvas and each of her looks tells a story.

Her level of artistry is exactly why the biggest brands are lining up to work with her. She served as Zendaya’s personal makeup artist on the set of Spiderman: No Way Home, and has become the go-to for celebrities like Beyonce, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Kelly Rowland, Issa Rae, Normani, and Jodie Turner-Smith. Most recently, she signed on as Lancôme’s Global International Artist.

Ahead, Daley gives us a rundown on her beauty routine, including some of her favourite products, the items she uses the most in her kit, and beauty tricks she’s picked up along the way.

On Her Morning Routine:

“My mornings are all about starting fresh and feeling energized for the day ahead. I wake up, and the first thing I do is hydrate with a big glass of water to give my skin that early boost of hydration. Then, I like to do a quick meditation session to centre myself and set positive intentions for the day.”

“When it comes to skincare, I believe in keeping it simple but effective. I start by cleansing my face with a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities from the night before. Next, I apply Lancôme’s Advanced Génifique Serum, a hydrating serum that boosts radiance and improves the overall texture of my skin. I follow up with Lancôme’s Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Day Cream SPF 30, a lightweight moisturizer with SPF to protect my skin from the sun’s harmful rays while providing all-day hydration and lifting effect.”

“For makeup, I like to keep it natural and glowing. I start with Lancôme’s Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation for a flawless, long-lasting complexion. Then, I use Lancôme’s Teint Idole Ultra Wear All Over Full Coverage Concealer to brighten and conceal any dark circles or blemishes. To enhance my eyes, I opt for Elora Lane lashes to add drama and definition without the need for mascara. Elora Lane lashes are perfect for making my eyes pop even on minimal makeup days. Lancôme’s Blush Subtil in Rose Fresque gives my cheeks a subtle flush of colour, while Lancôme’s L’Absolu Gloss finishes off my look with a glossy lip.”

On Her Evening Routine:

“In the evening, I like to wind down and pamper myself after a long day of work. I start by removing my makeup with Lancôme’s Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover to melt away any traces of makeup and sunscreen gently. Then, I love to do a nice double cleanse to ensure my skin is thoroughly clean without stripping it of its natural oils.”

“After cleansing, I like to indulge in a luxurious skincare routine to nourish and repair my skin while I sleep. I apply Lancôme’s Tonique Confort Re-Hydrating Comforting Toner to hydrate and soothe my skin, followed by Lancôme’s Advanced Génifique Serum to replenish and rejuvenate. I seal everything in with Lancôme’s Absolue Revitalizing Night Cream, a rich moisturizer that restores moisture and plumps up my skin overnight.”

“Once or twice a week, I like to treat myself to a face mask using Lancôme’s Advanced Génifique Hydrogel Melting Mask to give my skin an extra boost of hydration and radiance. And before bed, I always make sure to apply Lancôme’s Absolue Precious Cells Nourishing Lip Balm to keep my lips soft, smooth, and hydrated while I sleep.”

On The Most Reached-For Item in Her Makeup Kit:

“The most reached for item in my makeup kit would have to be my collection of Hakuhodo brushes. They’re essential tools that I rely on to blend foundation, concealer, and cream products seamlessly for a flawless finish every time.”

On Her Favorite Celeb Makeup Look:

“One of my favourite celebrity makeup looks that I’ve created is the captivating makeup look for Anok Yai at the 2024 Met Gala, where she was adorned in Swarovski. Her look was a true embodiment of elegance and sophistication, with luminous skin, mesmerizing eye makeup, and an ethereal iridescent highlight that added a euphoric glow to her complexion.”

On A Beauty Tip to Share:

“One beauty tip that I always like to share is the importance of skincare as the foundation of any makeup look. Taking care of your skin with a consistent skincare routine tailored to your skin type and concerns will not only improve the overall health and appearance of your skin but also enhance the results of your makeup application. So, invest in your skincare, and your makeup will thank you for it!’”

Shop Sheika’s beauty picks here:

Lancôme’s Advanced Génifique Serum