Claudio Ciccolella: "Make-up can be many things"

If we close our eyes, we can still see SEPHORiA, the experiential event brought by Sephora to Milan, or more precisely to Italy, at the end of March. On that occasion, we had the chance to meet Claudio Ciccolella, Pro Team Sephora and National Make-up Artist Sephora Italia, who gave us an early preview of what he saw as the season’s trends. Now, we’ve gone deeper, discovering not only more about him and his approach to make-up, but also about Sephora’s philosophy. Curious to know what he told us?

Claudio Ciccolella, Interview with Sephora Italia’s National Make-up Artist

How important was SEPHORiA’s arrival in Italy for the beauty world?

SEPHORiA coming to Italy was truly special, meaningful, and exciting for us. It’s like opening the doors to a parallel universe where makeup tells the story of the latest trends, skincare becomes a sensory journey, and innovation is everywhere. For us at Sephora, it’s like welcome our community into our home: a place where experimentation, inclusivity, and creativity are at the center of everything. For customers, it’s a unique opportunity to engage directly with brands, products, and the coolest trends of the moment… in one word? Experience.

What will this year’s beauty trends be?

2025 is set to be the year of hybrid makeup: a smart fusion of skincare and makeup. We’re talking about treatment foundations, nourishing blushes, hydrating lipsticks, and mascaras infused with strengthening serums. But that’s not all: plum makeup—in all its purplish shades—will rule eyes, lips, and cheeks with elegance and attitude. There’s also a futuristic breeze with the holographic trend: duo and trio chrome eyeshadows for ultra-glam, multidimensional looks.

Which are your favorites? How would you wear them?

I’ve always been fascinated by the quest for products that seamlessly melt into the skin to create nearly invisible base finishes... so the hybrid makeup trend is one of my favorites. A skincare base that starts with proper cleansing and ends with SPF, setting the stage for makeup. To achieve a second-skin effect finish, I recommend applying products with a brush, puff, or blender, and then blending and tapping them in with your fingers (it helps warm up the textures for a flawless mix and match). I also can’t resist holographics! With the Sephora Collection, I have so much fun creating bold graphic eyeliners and multidimensional shimmers.

What does the way we wear—or don’t wear—makeup say about us?

Makeup can mean many things: sometimes it’s a way to complete a look, other times it’s a gesture that makes us feel better about ourselves, or a tool for self-expression. It doesn’t have to communicate anything to others—it should make the wearer feel good. It’s freedom, expression, sometimes a refuge, sometimes a celebration. And feeling good doesn’t necessarily mean being “glammed up.” Sometimes a little is enough, even just a dab of color on the lips or cheeks to boost our energy.

Are social networks a good source for product advice? Or is it better to rely on an expert?

Absolutely both! Beauty creators on social are an incredible resource: many are also make-up artists, skin experts, or industry professionals. They have a sharp eye for new products and often anticipate trends. That said, talking to an in-store expert remains invaluable: you can see products in person, try them, and get personalized advice. The two approaches are complementary: one sparks curiosity, the other helps make the perfect choice.

What does being part of the Sephora family mean to you?

I’ve been with Sephora for 16 years, and today I can honestly say it feels like home. It’s like that group of friends you grow up with and recognize yourself in. It’s a place where I feel free to express myself, to experiment, and to learn something new every day. Over these 16 years, I’ve grown professionally and Sephora has evolved too. For me, Sephora is also a safe space, a place where I can be who I truly am.

What’s the one product you can’t live without?

My absolute must-have? The Brow Wax by Sephora Collection! Even if I wear nothing else, my brows have to be groomed. And of course, a good sunscreen, which is a non-negotiable before stepping out—summer or winter. I’d say those are my two everyday “can’t live without” items.

And the one product everyone should have?

Blush and lip balm. Always, especially now that summer’s approaching. They instantly brighten the face—adding a touch of color, hydration, and freshness. Right now I love switching between Audrer’s lip balm, Summer Fridays’ products, and Tarte’s new lip mask (which smells like salted caramel—pure delight). For cheeks, I start with a cream blush before heading out, then layer a powder blush during the day for extra intensity. In one word: Juicy Skin. Don’t overlook multi-use products you can keep in your bag. The Color Fuse Longwear Glassy Lip + Cheek Balm Blush Stick from Haus Labs, or the iconic Benetint by Benefit.