The Interview

Styleforfree:  How did DuWop get started and what's behind the name?

DuWop:  It began over 10 years ago when we (Cristina Bartolucci, a celebrity makeup artist and Laura DeLuisa, a celebrity hairstylist) were working together on the set of a television series, running the hair and makeup department. Even with the finest cosmetics at our fingertips, we still got ideas for products that just weren't on the market….so we decided to create them ourselves.

Styleforfree:  Your cosmetics are so fresh and original. What inspires you to come up with such great ideas?

DuWop:  While on set, we constantly had to find quick-fixes for common (and not-so-common) beauty blunders. Dark circles, puffy eyes, pale blotchy skin, thin lips-we were always looking for ways to combat these issues, and eventually started inventing our own solutions. Because of the huge film budgets, we also had the chance to experiment with almost every product on the market, so we really got to see what's missing.

SFF:  Any new DuWop products we can look forward to seeing this Spring/Summer/Fall?

DuWop:  We are very excited about our new collection of products. We can't give away too many details, but we can mention that we are soon launching a brow kit, a concealer and primer stick, mascara, and bronzer-all with a unique twist. We never create a product if it doesn't have something different to offer.

SFF: Any plans in the works for face products from DuWop? Powders, concealers, etc.?

DuWop: Our newly launched tinted moisturizer, Revolotion Face, has already received fabulous feedback from celebrities, makeup artists, and beauty editors. The formula is sheer with a radiant satin matte finish, has SPF 15 and subtle light reflecting pigment. Concealer, powder, and bronzer are coming soon.

SFF:  If Reverse lipliner is applied just outside the lip line, will it make my lips look fuller, or will I look a clown?

DuWop:  Reverse Lipliner is a clear matte pencil that you apply to the outside of your lips, to keep your lipstick/gloss from feathering. It also contains a miracle ingredient called Kambuchka, which plumps all the fine lines around your mouth, creating a perfectly shaped, flawless pout. You do not feel or see the product around your lips, it's like an invisible secret weapon. Reverse Lipliner has become a Hollywood staple, with celebrity fans like Scarlett Johannson and Cindy Crawford.

SFF:  We've heard great reviews on Hands 2 Hair for texturizing their locks - but can people really use it as a hand moisturizer?

DuWop: On film sets, many hairstylists use hand lotion to style hair. The formula works very well to separate the strands, for a sexy, piecy look. We wanted to create a light formula that smelled amazing and added volume, shine, and separation to the hair. Instead of having to wash your hands after (like with most styling products), you simply rub the remaining cream into your hands for a fabulous hydrating hand cream.

SFF:  How often do you send your E-newsletter out and roughly how many beauty tips & tricks arrive with each issue?

DuWop: We are currently revamping our website, E-newsletter, and catalogue, so expect to see a gorgeous new look for DuWop online this Spring.

SFF:  If one applies to be an Intern at DuWop in So. California, what type of tasks might they be able to look forward to?

DuWop: Our interns work in the Sales or PR Dept and really get to learn about the day-to-day business of running a boutique cosmetics company, doing a little bit of everything.

SFF:  What's the #1 thing you love most about what you do?

DuWop: Inventing new products. We are like the beauty world's mad scientists, mixing up formulas in the lab, trying to bring you the latest and greatest innovative products

SFF:  Name three faces (past or present) you'd like to get (or to have gotten) your hands on.

DuWop: Isabella Rossellini, Keira Knightley, and Charlize Theron.

SFF:  Thanks so much for conducting this interview! Any tips for girls who want to follow their hearts and dreams?

Here are some entrepreneur tips from DuWop co-founder Laura DeLuisa:

Do What You Love

You will be devoting your life to this business so make sure it's something you are very passionate about.

Get Some Experience

Volunteer, do an internship or become an assistant-try to get some hands-on experience in whatever area you're interested in. This will help you in the future, and will allow you to make new contacts that can help you along the way.

Research, Research And Then Research Again

Search online, interview people you know, read books-research everything about the business you want to start. You have to know every detail about the industry-who is your target market? What will your expenses be? Where do you want to sell your product/offer your services? Is there a need for this business today? These are all questions, along with many others, that you need to know. Research everything.

Know Yourself

Be aware of what you're good at, and what you might need help with. You can't do everything, so stick to what you know and don't be afraid to ask for help with things you don't know.

"No" means "Not Yet"

Never give up. If someone tells you that you can't do something, prove them wrong. Work hard and don't stop until you achieve whatever it is that you want.