When northern-born make-up artist Lucy Bridge moved to London, a chance meeting with British fashion photographer Tim Walker propelled her career into the big time. Lucy has since worked with the likes of Rita Ora and had her worked published in titles such as Vogue and The Sunday Times Style.

We speak to Lucy Bridge about model skin secrets, game-changing beauty products and beauty from the inside out.

Models have make-up applied to their faces all day long – as a make-up artist, do you find that models tend to have good skin?
It really varies. Some girls just have good genes and it doesn't make a difference if they have make-up applied every day; others are not as fortunate. Factors like the weather can also be a problem, especially in England. As a make-up artist it is about replenishing the skin in the small amount of time that you have and making it look as healthy as possible.

How can models keep their skin in good condition?
When on a shoot it is just as important to remove makeup correctly and to nurture the skin after a long day as it is putting the make-up on. Making sure the skin has been looked after in this way is setting the model’s skin up for the next day ahead.

How do you get around any skin issues to make sure their make-up looks perfect?
The thing that I really love to spend a lot of time doing is prepping the skin - for me this is the most important thing. I start by cleansing the skin with Bioderma (a makeup artist’s secret weapon for any skin type) and I give them a facial massage using a facial oil. This is very relaxing (and a bit of a treat for them) and by doing this you can also learn about the structure of their face. I then use a combination of face, eye and lip creams to finish. This process usually takes me between 10-15 minutes.
How important is a healthy diet for good skin, hair and nails?
I would say without a doubt that diet is key to looking and feeling healthy. I have noticed this within myself over the past 5 years as well. I am the fittest and healthiest now than I have been in years and my skin, hair and nails are the best they have ever been. All the vital nutrients and minerals in good foods, nuts, oils and fruit really give your appearance a boost of life - you end up feeling radiant on the inside, as well as out.

What are your top tips to keep skin in prime condition?
1. Drink 2-3 litres of water a day - add cucumber, lemon or mint for extra flavour.
2. Eat between 5-10 pieces of fruit and vegetables a day.
3. A handful of nuts every day really prompts hair and nail growth.
4. Use a facial oil every night before bed, massaging into your face and neck for 5-10 minutes.
5. A good exfoliator is key, especially with the pollution in London. Use 2-3 times a week.
6. Make homemade face masks using avocado and honey. The purest ingredients are the best.

What’s your own daily beauty regime?
I use Liz Earl Hot Cloth Cleanser in the shower, followed by Radical Skincare Ageing Defying Exfoliating Pads. I then use Dr Hauschka Rose Day Creme followed by Radical Skincare Eye Crème. Every day as part of my beauty regime I also make myself a homemade juice using mainly vegetables and a hint of fruit. To this I add in Udo's Choice Ultimate Oil Blend as I find this really gives me a boost in the morning. It has the vital omegas 3 & 6 within it, which helps maintain flawless skin, shiny hair and strong nails.

Have any beauty products been game changers for you?
MAC Mink Brow Gel (which was limited edition, BOO!) - the best brow gel for adding colour and brushing up brows.
Shiseido Sheer and Perfect Foundation - the lightweight formula is great for a sheer and natural base but adds enough coverage to hide any imperfections.
Tom Ford Eye Color Quad in Cocoa Mirage - the 4 greatest shades for creating a super natural, or heavy brown smokey eye.
8 Hour Creme by Elizabeth Arden - this wonder product is perfect as a lip base, or can be used for creating wet look glossy skin which the camera loves.
Last but not least Taupe Eye Pencil by The Makeup Store - I cannot do a shoot without using this soft creamy pencil to add definition

What has been a defining moment in your career?
Being taken on by my agency Jed Root, 2 years ago. Being with them has really pushed me and I have seen a huge difference in the level of work that I am creating.

How do you relax?
Oddly, I relax by going to the gym or doing a yoga class! I love going to the Columbia Road Flower Market on a Sunday, or just watching movies with my cat. I find it hard to relax - I like to be up and about all the time, exploring new places and meeting up with friends.

Interview by our resident beauty writer Jenni Retourné of Style with Substance. With a career in the beauty industry spanning almost a decade, Jenni has a huge interest in health and nutrition, believing that everything you eat has an effect both on the outside and inside.

Images copyright ©Lucy Bridge