Glow Up

Glow Up, which first hit our screens in 2019 on BBC Three, is a competitive reality television series with a unique, vibrant spin. This unusual contest highlights the thriving world of professional make-up artistry and brings glamour, creativity, and fierce competition together.

The show distinguishes itself from other reality shows with its distinct topic of make-up skills. The competitive nature of the industry is emphasized in this high-stakes contest, where a group of aspiring make-up artists takes on challenging weekly tasks to avoid elimination and potentially win the title of Britain’s next make-up star. The enthusiastic contestants strive to deliver captivating transformations, showcasing their talents in the process.

Each episode is structured to test different aspects of the artists' skills. The versatile challenges thrown at the competitors range from various classical makeup tasks to the undertaking of more elaborate, special effects-based looks. From creating stylized fashion editorials, to crafting unique makeup styles under tight deadlines, to interpreting the requests of demanding clients; the participants face a plethora of tasks, mirroring the real-life makeup industry.

Glow Up does not stick to the confines of a static studio. In the ‘real-world’ challenges, the contestants are taken into the field where they must manage their tasks in real professional situations, under real pressures. Be it a seasoned celebrity for a red-carpet event, a fashion model in the hustle-bustle of the catwalk circuit, or a theatrical cast member needing a stage-worthy character transformation, their skills are put to the test outside in-line with actual working conditions.

In addition to dazzling transformations and high-pressure challenges, this show shines a light on the stories, personalities, and tenacity of the artists themselves. Their individual journeys, infused with their backgrounds, attitudes, dreams, and insecurities, are brought to the forefront, giving dimension to both the contestants and the canvas of makeup artistry as a whole.

Glow Up is hosted by the bright and bubbly Stacey Dooley, a well-known broadcaster and journalist from the UK. Dooley brings a unique energy to the show, providing a compassionate ear to the contestants' stories while maintaining the enthusiasm of the competition. Her genuine interest in the field of makeup, coupled with her warmth and charismatic appeal, further lifts the dynamic spirit of the show.

But the true heart of the judgement panel lies in the make-up professionals - Dominic Skinner and Val Garland. Skinner, a Global Senior Artist for MAC Cosmetics, and Garland, an internationally acclaimed makeup artist who has worked with countless celebrities and top fashion labels, provide their expertise to guide and assess the contestants. Their critiques, delivered with a blend of hard-hitting honesty and constructive advice, are pivotal in shaping the competition.

Interactions between the judges and contestants are intricate, varying from inspiring mentorship moments to fiery confrontations. Icons from various segments of the industry also join as guest judges, contributing their unique perspectives and further raising the bar for the competition.

One of the prime elements that set Glow Up apart is its approach towards the field of make-up. Far from trivializing it as merely an act of vanity, the show emphatically highlights make-up as an art form. The make-up brush is portrayed as a potent tool of creativity that can shape identities, weave narratives, and transcend norms. Transposing the magic and stories of the make-up world into the dynamic format of reality television, Glow Up offers an intriguing watch for all, whether they be makeup enthusiasts or casual viewers.

In essence, Glow Up from BBC Three is a vibrant celebration of creativity, passion, and transformation. While entertaining, the show also inspires by demonstrating how makeup is more than superficial alteration; it’s a powerful mode of self-expression. Through the lens of this competition, we witness the remarkable resilience and talent of artists, as well as the transformative power of makeup. A spellbinding blend of entertainment and empathy, Glow Up is an innovative addition to reality television, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the art of makeup.