Sam Visser opens a new make-up chapter at YSL Beauty

YSL Beauty introduced Sam Visser as its new International Make-up Artist in 2025, opening a chapter that looks beyond familiar techniques towards a broader, more inclusive vision of beauty.

One of the leading make-up artists of his generation, Sam has become a favourite with Hollywood stars and fashion editors,

earning a reputation for challenging beauty’s conventions. Born in Los Angeles, he began experimenting with make-up at an early age. Since then, he has developed an instantly recognisable aesthetic, combining the high-octane glamour of earlier generations with bold experimentation.

His work moves between digital and physical worlds, bringing references from the 1970s and 1980s into futuristic looks that use make-up as a vehicle for individual expression.

His collaborators include Inez & Vinoodh, Carlijn Jacobs, Harley Weir, Bryce Anderson, Hugo Comte, Charlotte Wales, Ethan James Green, Guido Palau, Sharna Osborne and Nadia Lee Cohen. His editorial work has appeared in The Face, i-D, Pop, Vogue, W Magazine and Re-Edition, among others.

‘We are thrilled to announce Sam as our new International Make-up Artist. His vision, his connection with Gen Z and his bold, daring approach make him a perfect embodiment of YSL Beauty’s values and mark an exciting direction for the brand,’ said Stephan Bezy, International General Manager of Yves Saint Laurent Beauté, at the announcement.

Make-up and the freedom to express yourself

Bold. Couture. Confident. Sam and YSL Beauty share an adventurous, playful approach to pushing make-up further. Drawing on vivid colour, unusual textures and strong, clean lines, he believes make-up should build confidence and allow everyone to express the truest version of themselves.

‘There is a strong sense of identity and power at YSL Beauty. A feeling of freedom, rebellion and refusing to conform to current beauty standards. That is why joining YSL Beauty as its International Make-up Artist is the highest honour. This is the brand that touched my soul when I was a child, so it feels as though I have come back to where I started,’ said Sam Visser.

Heritage meets Sam’s vision for the present

Sam first discovered YSL Beauty at twelve, buying his mother a Rouge Volupté Shine lipstick. His approach now embraces that heritage while moving the make-up aesthetic forward. Pop culture, glamorous futurism and cinematic nostalgia inform looks designed to feel both timeless and striking. Reconsidering the looks associated with Monsieur Saint Laurent in the 1970s and 1980s, he also explores a new future for the brand through questions of gender, beauty and product design. Think memorable imagery with one rule: there are no rules.

Introducing Sam’s signature YSL Beauty looks

To launch the collaboration, Sam developed three looks inspired by the house’s heritage. Sophisticated but approachable, they set out his direction for YSL Beauty’s make-up artistry.

Seductive Couture: luminous nude make-up

This soft, radiant nude look starts with a fresh complexion that works for any occasion, inspired by the neutral shades in Yves Rive Gauche collections of the early 1970s. It channels an LA socialite who is approachable, sensual and full of energy. Sam Visser’s products: Touche Éclat Le Stylo, Make Me Blush Bold Blurring Blush in powder or liquid form, and All Hours Highlighter for the complexion. He finishes with Couture Mini Clutch in nude and pink shades, Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils, and YSL Loveshine in nude or pink on the lips.

A fresh take on the smoky eye

A distinctive approach to glamour gives the classic smoky eye a new feel. Inspired by cool Paris nights and the lights of the Eiffel Tower, rich dark shades meet subtle highlights to add dimension and suggest a starry sky. The mood is independent, spirited and unmistakably Parisian. Sam Visser’s products: Couture Mini Clutch #720 Captivating Dunes, Lash Clash #01 Black mascara and Lines Liberated #05 Prismatic Black eyeliner for the eyes. For the complexion, he uses All Hours Bronzer in a suitable shade and Make Me Blush Bold Blurring #54 Berry Bang. On the lips: YSL Loveshine Plumping Lip Oil Gloss #08.

The Night Ruler

This fearless exploration of colour pays tribute to Monsieur Saint Laurent’s elegance and love of Paris. Bold blue eyes contrast with intensely glossy lips, bringing couture together with a timeless sense of glamour. Inspired by women who own the night, it is provocative and instinctive. Sam Visser’s products: Couture Mini Clutch #900 Palmeraie Skies, Crushliner #06 Bleu, and Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils or Lash Clash #01 Black or #03 Blue Enigmative for a cobalt eye. For luminous skin, he uses All Hours Highlighter and Make Me Blush Bold Blurring powder or liquid blush in a shade suited to each complexion. YSL Loveshine Plumping Lip Oil Gloss completes the look.

Each of the three looks was designed to be presented across six skin tones, putting inclusion at the centre of the launch.

The tension between heritage and a modern outlook is where YSL Beauty finds its boldness. Colour, light and style collide; conventions are there to be challenged. Authenticity runs through the make-up, with the aim of giving people room to experiment. The result is a youthful, daring take on luxury.

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