Makeup Maestro: Behind the Brush with Petr Fridrich

Rachel Huss
3 days ago
4 min read

Petr Fridrich applies blush on a woman with short blonde hair. They're in a bright room. The mood is focused and professional. — Image courtesy of Petr Fridrich.

What makes someone feel confident? Is it the colors they wear, the way they move, or the reflection they see in the mirror? For a makeup artist, beauty and confidence are forever intertwined. And Petr Fridrich understands that connection.

Woman with wet hair and dramatic eyeliner, wearing sparkling chandelier earrings, gazes intensely. Neutral background adds focus to her expression. — Image courtesy of Petr Fridrich.

When Petr picks up a brush, it’s like choreography: every stroke has purpose, every highlight enhances what’s already there. He doesn’t just apply makeup. He empowers people to see the best version of themselves. Watching him work, you understand that makeup is both art and confidence in motion.

Black and white portrait of a man with short hair, wearing a dark shirt. He looks directly at the camera, set against a plain background. — Image courtesy of Petr Fridrich.

Petr Fridrich Interview

What inspired you to become a MUA?

Since I was a child, I remember being quite creative. I liked music, dancing, and drawing. My journey started with dance when I was sixteen—specifically ballroom and Latin-American dances. I was in love with the costumes, hair, and makeup. The sparkles, colors, and patterns were all so new to me, but I somehow knew that this is the world I wanted to live in.

Makeup artist applying gold foil to a seated woman's eyes in a sleek, marble bathroom. Woman wears a white cape, expression calm. — Image courtesy of Petr Fridrich.

Through the circle of dancers, I met people from a local hair salon who were attending hair awards and doing hair shows. Naturally, they needed a makeup artist for their team, and that was my very first professional input. I already enjoyed painting, I had done a bit of modeling myself, and I also handled the makeup for our dance competitions. It all connected seamlessly and solidified the idea of becoming a makeup artist.

Close-up of a closed eye with dramatic winged eyeliner and shimmering eyeshadow. Skin appears smooth and radiant under soft lighting. — Image courtesy of Petr Fridrich.

How does makeup improve a person’s confidence?

I think the beauty of makeup lies in its role as a playful tool for self-discovery. It invites you into a universe of creativity where you gently decide how you want to present yourself to the world—whether that means creating a polished illusion or simply embracing your authentic self.

For some, it offers the comforting assurance of a perfect canvas, giving them a moment to feel completely put-together. For others, it's about making a deliberate choice to enhance the natural beauty they already possess, drawing positive attention to the features they love most.

Ultimately, regardless of the path someone chooses, that feeling of having made a positive, creative choice for oneself offers a deep sense of personal satisfaction. That small ritual of care and self-expression is incredibly powerful; it's a quiet moment that significantly lifts one's mental state and inner confidence.

Makeup station with brushes, palettes, and array of lipsticks on a black table. Images of faces and beauty tools scattered. Professional setup. — Image courtesy of Petr Fridrich.

What are some products everyone should have?

Throughout my career in the beauty industry, I've had the luxury of trying and working with countless brands. Honestly, I reached a point where I realized I couldn't work with any cosmetic brand solely for the profit; I have to believe in the brand, and I have to be able to rely on the products.

Pat McGrath Labs is one of those essential brands. Pat herself knows so much about the industry that she truly convinced me of her favorites. I simply cannot work without certain products because they are the secret to achieving that iconic look.

Man and woman smiling for a selfie with a group of people in black outfits behind them. Text "H LABS" visible. Bright setting. — Image courtesy of Petr Fridrich.

For me, the must-haves that create and enhance the most beautiful, glowy skin with a blurred finish are:

In my opinion, these are the core essentials for anyone serious about elevating their base makeup.

Video courtesy of Pat McGrath Labs.

What advice would you give to students or young professionals who want to enter this realm?
My advice centers on passion and persistence: Believe in yourselves and be unstoppable.If makeup is the first thing you think about when you wake up and the last thing on your mind when you go to sleep, then you are already set for success—the rest will come along your journey.
- Practice Relentlessly: Never stop honing your skills. Create constantly and push your own boundaries.
- Build Your Brand: Work actively on your portfolio and maintain a consistent, professional presence on social media. This is your digital calling card.
- Do Your Homework: Before every single job, conduct thorough research on the brand, the photographer, or the project vision. Never walk onto a set unprepared.
- Know Your Worth: Do not sell yourself under market price. Understand your value as a professional artist.
- Use Every Connection: Embrace every relationship and contact your work brings you, because you never know what doors those connections will open next.
Image courtesy of Petr Fridrich.
What is your next chapter?

I see myself maintaining an active role as a makeup artist for at least another ten years. After that, I definitely want to remain in the industry, but perhaps shifting away from the demanding travel and heavy kit bags associated with constant production work. My real ambition for the next chapter is to transition into education. I’ve been playing with the idea of launching a makeup academy where I can mentor young talent and help them achieve their dreams. It’s an idea that I feel very passionate about, and it's where I believe I can make the largest impact on the next generation of artists. Stay tuned!