Meet Gilbert Estrada, the MUA Behind Becky G’s Most Iconic Looks—Yes, That Eyeliner Too
Gilbert Estrada — best known as Makeup by Gilly among beauty enthusiasts — became his friends’ go-to makeup artist when he was still in high school. Today, Estrada is Latina powerhouse Becky G’s favorite beauty collaborator. (If you need proof, look no further than Hulu’s documentary series, “Faces of Music.” The third episode follows Becky G, Estrada, and hairstylist Glen Oropeza as they reflect on some of her career-defining beauty moments.)
But long before Estrada worked his magic on celebrity clients, he remembers testing the waters with makeup. “Any chance I got, I was practicing new looks, experimenting with colors, and figuring out the magic of makeup,” he tells FIERCE.
Like many connoisseurs who recognize them as trend creators, Estrada credits drag performers for igniting his passion for makeup. “Seeing them use makeup to exaggerate, sculpt, and completely reinvent their features was mesmerizing,” he shares. ”This inspired me to dive deeper into the world of makeup, and I’ve been hooked ever since!”
Gilbert Estrada and the Importance of Latino Heritage
Although glam teams are often behind the scenes, Estrada has created a strong following of his own. The celebrity MUA shares tips and tutorials on social media to recreate some of his most iconic looks. Vibrant colors, lined lips, and winged eyeliner stand out in his portfolio.
In addition to drag queens, Estrada attributes his creativity, style, and outlook on beauty to his Latin American roots. “My heritage is at the heart of everything I do!” he acknowledges. “From my culture’s bold colors and rich traditions to the stories and resilience passed down through generations, it all inspires my work.”
As Estrada explains, his heritage has also influenced his way of working and purpose. “Whether it’s in the shades I choose, the techniques I use, or the confidence I help others find, my roots are always present.” He adds, “It’s more than just makeup. It’s a celebration of where I come from.”
Representation in the Global Industry
Celebrating cultures has allowed the global beauty industry to embrace diversity and growth. In recent years, traditions, identity markers, and ways of expression from around the globe have nurtured and influenced the birth of new talent, brands, and trends.
For Gilbert Estrada, being a Latino makeup artist in the industry is an opportunity to honor his culture and amplify Latino presence. “Representation is so important, and too often, our voices and artistry don’t get the spotlight they deserve,” he says. “But here I am, bringing our culture, creativity, and passion to the table loud and proud!”
Estrada emphasizes that celebrating beauty diversity inspires others to embrace their unique looks and helps the industry evolve. I’m thrilled to be part of the movement making beauty more inclusive and reflective of the world we live in.”
How Gilbert Estrada Embraces Change and MUA Tips
With the beauty industry evolving at a fast-paced rate, Gilbert Estrada remains open to growth and development. As he tells FIERCE, he is constantly refining his techniques and experimenting with new products. “I truly believe that as an artist, you never stop learning and growing,” he says. “The beauty industry moves fast. Staying open to change is key. It keeps things exciting!”
However, as much as Estrada enjoys change, he recommends some truly powerful and timeless makeup combinations without a second thought. As seen on his celebrity client list — which spans Becky G, Brazilian singer-songwriter Sofia Oliveira, and Selling Sunset alum Christine Quinn — Estrada loves to craft glamorous looks. “One of my all-time favorites is a classic winged liner paired with a bold lip,” he shares. “There’s just something so powerful about a fierce red lip. It’s confident, timeless, and always makes a statement.”
In Estrada’s words, the combination is the “kind of look that turns heads and leaves an impression.” Yes. Agreed!
Achieving Becky G’s Perfect Eyeliner
Among Estrada’s signature looks, Becky G’s bold eyeliner is one of beauty enthusiasts’ favorite looks to recreate. Talking to Who What Wear, the singer shouted out Estrada for helping her craft her iconic glam and teaching her one of her go-to tips for eyeliner.
“One of the tips and tricks that he taught me was with the Makeup by Mario Neutrals Palette,” she shared. “We use the black eye shadow with a setting spray of some sort and a really fine, angled brush. That’s usually what I use for shows and stuff.”
Estrada recommends the same technique to FIERCE’s readers. “One of my favorite tricks is creating my own eyeliner using eyeshadow mixed with Inglot’s Duraline,” he says. If you’re just getting started in makeup and have never heard of Duraline, this translucent liquid makes makeup products waterproof and brings out color depth. “It turns any shadow into a smooth, long-lasting liner with the perfect consistency,” Estrada explains.
But achieving the perfect winged-eye look is all about the three p’s (patience, practice, and [right] products), says the makeup artist. Most importantly, he urges people not to be afraid of making mistakes. “Here’s the best part, it’s just makeup! If you mess up, wipe it off and try again,” he recommends. “Even professionals have to clean up their liner every now and then. So play around, experiment, and don’t be afraid.”
“The Future is Looking FIERCE”
The year is just starting, so Gilbert Estrada shares some items on his 2025 bucket list. “One of my top goals is to collaborate with a beauty brand to create makeup products that truly speak to me as an artist,” he says. “Products that feel authentic, inspiring, and bring my creative vision to life.”
Estrada also aims to participate in big events, including American fashion’s biggest night. “I would love to do makeup for the Met Gala,” he tells FIERCE. “The fashion, the drama, the artistry, imagine being part of that magic! Creating a show-stopping look for such an iconic event would be a dream come true.”
“The future is looking fierce, and I have some big dreams I’m chasing,” he adds.
