When make-up artist Melissa Murphy released her first batch of photos featuring cosmetic-free porn models, she was not prepared for the reaction.
She told The Huffington Post US Weird News that the popularity of her Instagram series (designed to showcase her work) was “kind of crazy”.
Now, she’s back with a new selection of X-rated stars posing without lipstick, mascara, highlighter, foundation or glitter!
According to HuffPost Weird News, Murphy did experience some negative responses from her photo subjects the first time around, from those who mistakenly accused her of selling their images.
However, the makeup artist has since sorted out this confusion and says the situation is now all “pretty positive”. She’s even had increased interest in her professional services!
HuffPost UK Lifestyle asked the professional make-up artist and spa blogger, Lisa Stokes, why we’re so fascinated by these before and after shots of stars.
“I think it’s simple. People are fascinated by these photos because they’re used to seeing celebrities fully made up and re-touched in glossy magazines and aspire to that. To see them barefaced and real, with flaws, is a comfort. It makes them feel better about themselves.
Lisa adds that the power of make-up to change a person’s looks can be truly extraordinary.
“Make-up can literally transform a face, create a persona. I’ve worked with actors, musicians, and models that arrive on a shoot feeling insecure and as soon as their face is ‘on’ they turn in to a different person. For some people, it’s like a mask.
“I think more celebrities should be photographed au natural. It’s refreshing.”