We ask make-up artist and social media sensation Genevieve Turley about tips, trends and her new OK! Beauty Box – including a way for Mirror readers to get it for under £55
If you like looking at beauty content on Instagram or TikTok, the chances are that you will have seen some of Genevieve Turley’s videos.
At a time when beauty can seem to mostly be perfectly edited images and unrealistic standards, professional make-up artist Gen’s posts are refreshingly hilarious and down-to-earth – and they’ve drawn attention from A-listers such as Jennifer Aniston and the Kardashians.
Gen also worked on the ITV show Katie Piper’s Weekend Escape, helping to make over members of the public with inspiring stories to tell, and has just released her own limited-edition edit with OK! Beauty Box, containing 11 of her favourite products – and a huge saving for Mirror readers to be had, too (keep scrolling for an exclusive offer)…
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How did you get into doing make-up professionally?
I changed career in 2018. I had been a burns and plastics nurse in the RAF but make-up had long been a passion of mine, so once I had my daughter in 2017 I knew I wanted to leave the forces and start my own business. I had no idea what I was doing with social media at first, I just knew it was a free marketing tool and it was a great way to get my work out there.
What was the turning point in your career?
My presence on social media skyrocketed in 2024 when I started to do more comedy skits about make-up. My first one went viral on Instagram and both Kourtney and Khloé Kardashian commented on it. I went from 4,000 followers to 100,000 in weeks.
I like to make fun of trends but sometimes there is a serious undertone about the pressure of beauty standards.
How would you describe your make-up style?
Natural to soft glam. A lot of my professional work has been bridal, so I have plenty of experience with different skin tones, skin types, ages etc. Online, I like to show my audience how to use products, as the beauty world can be very overwhelming. Most women want simple tips to enhance their natural beauty.
And what can people expect from your social media accounts?
It’s a real mishmash. Overall, I like to think my pages are relatable to women aged 35+. It’s life on the go as a woman with two young kids and a dog. I review make-up and skincare while sharing tips and tricks, but I also try to bring some fun.
Social media can negatively impact a person’s headspace, confidence and worthiness. I like to think that on mine, you will feel seen, empowered and upbeat.
What’s the most ridiculous make-up trend you’ve seen recently?
So many! The blush hacks have gotten out of control. Just whack it on and get on with your day! And putting make-up onto clingfilm so you can splat it on your face in the morning. Wild! Dangerous, too, as young kids are online and this has obvious risks. Not worth the clickbait.
What was the most inspirational story you heard from working on Katie Piper’s Weekend Escape?
There were so many. Michael [Douglas, celeb hair stylist] and I honestly had such a wonderful time with these incredible individuals who all had inspiring stories to share. One that sticks out was a lady whose young son died from type 1 diabetes. I was sitting in the room with tears rolling down my face. His mum had taken him to the GP and they said it was a virus. He could have so easily been saved. Just heartbreaking.
What was important to you when creating your OK! Beauty Box?
I’ve had so many beauty boxes over the years and always thought, “What would I put in mine?” So when this happened I was delighted! I wanted great products that will make a big impact. Medik8 C-Tetra Lipid Vitamin C Radiance Serum is a showstopper. The Rodial Blush Drops will also be popular.
This box is a great opportunity to try products you may not have heard of or been afraid to splurge on, but with the massive saving (it’s worth over £210 but costs £59.99), it takes away the worry.
What are your top tips for using the products inside?
Just have a play with them, feel the textures, and try different ways of applying them. Make-up and skincare should be a mix of TLC and creative play. I wanted products that were perfect for my ‘natural make-up’ women.
What’s a quick and easy make-up trick that not enough people know?
Setting spray. Spritz after foundation and then again after adding powder. It helps to bond the make-up so it looks natural and skin-like, but also adds longevity. You can also spritz throughout the day to rehydrate your skin while also refreshing your make-up.
What would you pick as your ultimate desert island make-up product?
How can you ask me that?! If I have to say just one, it would be the Dr PawPaw Shea Butter Lip Balm from the box because it’s so multifunctional. It’s great for the lips but also gives a lovely glow to your cheeks, or you can pop it on your brows to add some shape. It’s a great all-rounder and handbag essential.
Reader offer
Get £5 off the limited-edition OK! Beauty Box by Genevieve Turley – worth over £210 – and buy it for £54.99 instead of the usual price of £59.99 while stocks last. Click here or use the code MIRRORGEN at the checkout.
You might also be interested in a skincare-focused box like Lookfantastic’s The Skin Renewal Edit, which is valued at £210 but costs £45, or the Boots X Supergoop! Beauty Bag Edit, priced at £44 but worth over £90 (we’ve reviewed this one here).