Claudia Fabian has spent over two decades in the beauty industry. Starting her career as a makeup artist in Chicago, she worked for a premier salon and spa as lead makeup artist helping women achieve their best selves through the art and magic of makeup. She also did makeup for the infamous make-over shows on Oprah, Jenny Jones and Jerry Springer in the 90s.
Claudia became an esthetician in 2000 and built a dynamic career in the esthetics industry. She currently is Director of Sales for a professional skincare brand and loves to share her skincare and makeup tips for all ages on Instagram, inspiring women with her grey hair transition. Claudia’s motto is that it is never too late to make your debut and being in your 50’s shouldn’t stop you from living your best glam life. Claudia started her podcast The Beauty Debut in 2020 and loves having open and honest conversations about aging and the beauty industry. She currently lives in Vegas with her two long-haired dachshunds Fonzi and Ludo.
Claudia Fabian
What is your relationship with your hair?
I have a lifelong love affair with my hair. I have been lucky to have been blessed with great hair. My hair always stick straight and in the 80s like 90% of women, I permed it and wore it big and high. There are several blackmail pictures of this era.
Later as I began working in a salon and spa, I was blessed to have access to some of the most talented colorists and hairstylists and I have had my hair in many colors and styles. I was never afraid to take risks, although I have always loved my hair when it was long, and as I entered my 50s, I refused to concede to society’s view that women of a certain age shouldn’t have long hair.
More recently, hormone changes have made my hair begin to have a natural wave, which I love. I more recently decided to embrace my grey after decades of covering it. I finally decided to welcome the grey and now I love it and can’t imagine going back to color. In fact, I wish I would have embraced it earlier.
What would you say is the best decade for hair inspiration?
I am a fan of the 60s and 70s. If I had to choose one it would be the 70s. I love all the glam that came with that era. Think Cher, Stevie Nicks, and Farrah Fawcett. Iconic!
How did you hear about Iles Formula?
I heard about it from my hairstylist here in Vegas Heather Mc Bride who works at The Hair Standard.
What is the most inspiring thing you’ve learned at your job?
As a makeup artist and esthetician the most inspiring thing I’ve learned is that while beauty and self-confidence definitely start from the inside, it’s incredible what makeup and skincare can do to elevate your mood and outlook. It’s not a frivolous thing, it holds magical power.
Do you read directions for use?
Yes, when it comes to my hair, I do not play games.
Do you read the composition of a product?
Yes, ingredients are important to me. I only want to use the best.
Your favorite Iles Formula product?
I love the whole collection, it’s hard to say, it’s like picking a favorite kid, you wouldn’t do that.
Your favorite shower dance?
Vogue by Madonna.
What makes you the happiest?
I am most happy helping other women feel good about themselves through the art of makeup and skincare.
If you were to share one beauty tip with us today, what would it be?
Don’t over-exfoliate your skin, less is more. Invest in good skincare and see your esthetician once a month.
If you didn’t do the job you do now, what do you think you would be doing?
If I weren’t a makeup artist or esthetician I would be a hairstylist. The moral of the story, I can’t imagine being in any other industry.
Get more inspiration from Claudia on her Instagram @thebeautydebut.