If we have learned anything these past few years, it is that discovering and owning your truest self is of the utmost importance. From improvising and adapting new lifestyle choices to experimenting with different hair colors or places we call home, we are always seeking new ways to be completely content as ourselves and to let our personality shine through. Now we all know that fashion and our external motif is one of the most practiced ways of expressing oneself to the world, but viral TikToker and self-taught makeup artist, Emma Norton, has a few tips for owning every side of YOUR personality.

With a strong background in the performing and visual arts, a singular look and style was never meant for the likes of Norton. “My first big makeup look was Harley Quinn, which ended up going viral. TikTok provided a forum for developing characters and experimenting with makeup looks every day—not just on my favorite holiday, Halloween. I didn’t envision this would be my path, but I feel very fortunate about how it has turned out.” Well-versed in the widest variety of in-depth transformations to the lighter, delicate touch, here’s Emma’s advice to walk you through her mind and beauty secrets to represent your personality. 

Ready, SET, go.

“Start by finding your own unique style and expression versus feeling pressured to emulate others. Regarding makeup, beginners may not know how important it is to set your face. If you don’t powder down your foundation, the colors will bleed into one another.”

Your first line of defense.

Made viral by her more dark and “scary” looks, that is not to define and compartmentalize her. While paying homage to the looks that jumpstarted her career, Norton is still very much attentive to following the expression of whatever path her personality takes her.  “My message to my audience is to first center on who you are, be creative and take risks. Then develop a thick skin — an asset because all entrepreneurs experience highs, lows, maybe even some haters. What matters most is that you feel proud and positive about what you’ve put out into the world. That mindset has helped me so much when I’ve gotten discouraged.” 

POV.

“My other advice is to participate in current trends. It’s a great way to break into the content world. But I always encourage people to put their own personal spin on whatever they do.”

Last, but not least:

EMMA NORTON’S BEAUTY HACK TO REPRESENT EVERY SIDE OF YOUR PERSONALITY:

As in fashion, with so many products to use — from pressed powder to cream-based to chalk shadows to primers to top coats — what is the secret behind it all? “Eye shadow. It's so versatile! You can use eye shadow to contour, as lipstick, for your eyebrows and, of course, on your eyelids.”