Miami Based Celebrity Makeup Artist Carolina Banegas Shares Her Beauty Must Haves

As part of Haute Living’s ongoing beauty series spotlighting industry leaders, we caught up with Miami based celebrity makeup artist Carolina Banegas to talk all things glow, technique, and the products she truly swears by. Known for her refined, skin forward approach and effortless finishes, Banegas has become a trusted name for polished, camera ready beauty that still feels personal and modern.

Represented by Peechy Group, Banegas shares her must have products, expert tips, and beauty philosophies that guide her work. From complexion prep to the subtle details that elevate a look, she offers a glimpse into the routines and inspirations behind her signature aesthetic.

HAUTE LIVING: What is your ultimate beauty hack?

CAROLINA BANEGAS: My ultimate beauty hack is deep skin prep and facial massage. Prepping the skin and Getting the blood flowing instantly awakens the complexion and creates that natural, lit-from-within glow. When the skin is truly radiant, you need far less makeup — everything sits better, and the face just looks alive. I’m also a big believer in layering products strategically from skincare to makeup to build dimension, ensure longevity, and achieve that seamless, flawless finish that lasts all day.

HL: What are your top beauty products you can’t live without?

CB: I definitely have a few go-to products I always reach for. For skincare, I love the Medicube Zero Pore Pads — they keep my skin smooth and clear — and the Lenox & Sixteenth The Preservationist Vitamin C Serum Cream, which gives me that bright, healthy glow. I also can’t live without the Lendava Body Cream; it’s super hydrating and makes my skin feel so soft.

I’m obsessed with 111SKIN face masks and eye patches — they’re my instant fix whenever my skin needs a boost.

For Complexion, I rely on Armani Beauty and Monika Blunder for a natural, flawless base. I set everything with the Danessa Myricks Blurring Balm Setting Spray, which give my skin that smooth, airbrushed look. The Catrice pH Reactive Blush adds the perfect flush of color.

I have to say, I love everything from Victoria Beckham Beauty — especially the eyeliners, contour and highlight sticks, and now the new blushes. Her products are just so effortless and elegant.

For brows and lips, Anastasia Beverly Hills is my go-to. I use the Brow Freeze, brow pens, and lip liners to keep everything defined and polished. I finish with the RMS Living Luminizer for that dewy glow, and I’m obsessed with all the Korean lip stains — they give such beautiful, long-lasting color.

HL: Favorite beauty trends of the moment?

CB: I’ve never really been someone who follows trends I’ve always believed in creating looks that feel timeless and effortless. Beauty should enhance who you are, not disguise it. That said, I’m so happy that fresh, glowing skin is having its moment right now. It’s all about healthy, breathable skin that looks alive and real. I love seeing people embrace their natural texture and unique features — it feels confident, modern, and truly beautiful.

HAUTE LIVING: Where does your beauty inspiration come from?

My inspiration comes from real life — the people I work with, and the energy that surrounds me. The unique features of each client inspired my creativity because no two faces are the same, and that individuality is what makes beauty so compelling. My work is all about enhancing what’s already there and letting individuality shine through. I’m constantly inspired by lighting and how it shapes the skin; it can completely change a look and bring depth and life to the face. I like to pay close attention to how lighting interacts with texture and tone it’s what brings makeup to life. Beyond that, I draw inspiration everyday from so many places: fine art, nature, animals, architecture . Inspiration is everywhere you look. You just have to open your eyes, observe, and discover the beautiful details around you.