A Chit Chat with Arabia Weddings: Lebanese Makeup Expert Christian Abouhaidar
Christian Abou Haidar is a name that has become synonymous with elegance, artistry, and bridal beauty in Lebanon and across the Middle East. Based in Beirut, Christian transformed his early passion for painting and color into a distinguished career in makeup artistry.
Christian’s portfolio is rich with high-profile names, including Elissa, Nancy Ajram, and Daniella Rahme, among many others.
In the bridal sphere, Christian stands out. His experimentation with texture, light, and longevity makes him a go-to for brides seeking a look that photographs beautifully and endures through their big day.
Whether for a red-carpet star or a bride on her wedding day, his mission remains the same: enhance each woman’s innate features, rather than obscure them.
How would you describe your signature makeup style?
Natural, timeless, and elevated, a soft enhancement of each woman’s unique beauty rather than a transformation.
My signature makeup style is all about timeless elegance and natural beauty. I focus on enhancing each client’s unique features rather than masking them, creating a look that feels effortless yet polished.
Whether it’s for bridal, red carpet, or everyday glamour, I aim for makeup that complements the person’s personality, works harmoniously with their outfit, and feels comfortable and confident on their skin. The goal is always to highlight individuality while keeping the final result soft, sophisticated, and enduring, something that photographs beautifully and still looks natural in real life.
What inspired you to become a makeup artist, and what continues to drive your creativity today?
I’ve always been fascinated by how makeup can tell a story and express emotion. What started as a passion for art and faces evolved into a career built on connection, helping women feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. Today, my creativity is driven by the people I meet, the cultures I experience, and the subtle harmony between elegance and individuality.
Do you have a favorite makeup product or technique that every bride should include on her big day?
A radiant yet natural skin finish is essential to achieve with thin, seamless layers of foundation and skin prep that ensure the makeup lasts all day. And a softly defined lip, slightly overlined with a tone close to the natural lip color, brings the look together beautifully.
Which bridal makeup trends are dominating the Middle East right now?
Brides in the Middle East are embracing softer, more refined beauty, luminous skin, monochromatic tones, and contoured features. There’s a growing shift from heavy glam toward sophisticated minimalism, where every detail feels intentional and effortlessly luxurious.
You’ve worked with many well-known faces in the region. Can you share a memorable experience from working with a celebrity client?
One of the most memorable moments in my career was working with Nancy Ajram for her Billboard Arabia cover. From the moment she arrived in the studio, there was an incredible energy —a mix of excitement, focus, and trust.
I carefully selected colors and textures to enhance her natural glow, while keeping the look timeless and elegant. Watching her transformation and seeing her confidence radiate in front of the camera was truly inspiring. When the cover was released, seeing our work in print felt surreal. It reminded me why I became a makeup artist: to create moments of beauty and confidence that leave a lasting impression.
How do you stay inspired and up to date with the latest beauty trends and techniques?
I constantly explore global beauty trends through fashion weeks, social media, and industry workshops. I also experiment with new techniques in my studio, ensuring my work stays fresh while maintaining my signature natural elegance.
