All made up: Richard Dean

Richard Dean, one of Hollywood's top makeup artists, has worked with some of the world's most glamorous leading actresses, including Liv Tyler, Nicole Kidman, Demi Moore and Geena Davis. Based in New York, he has also been personally responsible for Julie Roberts' makeup in many of her starring roles.

Dean began his impressive career as a stage makeup artist before moving into fashion, television and finally movies. With almost three decades in movie makeup and more than 40 movie hits to his credit, he has created looks for Ocean's Eleven, Erin Brokovich, The Runaway Bride, Notting Hill, Meet Joe Black, Indecent Proposal and Mona Lisa Smile.

Most recently, he worked on Closer starring Julia Roberts, Natalie Portman, Jude Law and Clive Owen.

A devotee of Max Factor cosmetics, he shared some of his professional secrets while he was in Auckland recently.

What is the secret to looking beautiful?

Not obsessing about cosmetics, creating beautiful eyes and not dominating your best features by overwhelming them.

Radiant health expressed in the face is ravishing. Care for skin and lips, accent your best features, add one splash of glamour.

What's your tip for a five-minute makeup miracle?

Curl your lashes to allow as much light as possible to enter the eye (or use Max Factor's Lash Lift Mascara); apply blush across ball of cheeks and bridge of nose for a healthy glow; create a perfect nude rose mouth for a soft, fresh look (try Lipfinity Everlites No 50).

What's the most important thing a woman can do to look good?

Create an eye-catching look with a strong simple statement. A great mascara, warm rich blush and a finished mouth. Select colours that connect rather than contradict one's natural colouring, then accent special features (such as eye shadow in warm tones with pale eye colours).

How does Julia Roberts manage to look so gorgeous?

She is gorgeous inside and out.

What is your favourite makeup colour?

Natural Brush-on Satin Blush in Mulberry, especially worn with Everlites Lipcolor No 50 for the longest wear.

What's the best beauty gadget you have ever come across?

A de-puffing eye mask that can be left in the fridge for chilling.

Desert Island product?

Sunblock. For lips as well.

Describe a usual situation that makeup artists face on a movie set

When actors are engaged in scenes of prolonged and intense love-making, which can take hour upon hour to film. The makeup artist has to keep popping up between them to repair the lips.

Is being a makeup artist on a movie set as glamorous as everyone thinks it is?

No. We don't get to go to premieres and a typical working days lasts 12 or so hours.

Who is the most beautiful person you have worked with and why?

The most beautiful are always the most down to earth and centred - they know glamour is an exquisite accessory if it's not taken too seriously. Julia, Nicole, Demi, Thandie Newton, Eva Mendes - how could I choose?

What is the latest look in Hollywood?

Soft eyes, soft (but finished) mouth, and hot flushed cheeks.