Meet Dariia Balaban | Makeup artist & hairstylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dariia Balaban and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dariia, how do you think about risk?
To me, risk-taking is about trusting my instincts and having confidence in my ability to handle whatever comes my way. When faced with a decision, I tend to think quickly and listen to my gut feelings. I believe that if I stay true to myself and my intuition, things will work out in the end.

If I had been afraid to take risks, I would never have made the bold decision to move to the U.S., which opened up countless opportunities for me. I wouldn’t have had the courage to enter and win world competitions, or to work on high-profile projects like the Oscars and The Voice.

Taking risks has been instrumental in helping me reach new heights in my career and personal life, and it has consistently paid off. Each time I’ve stepped out of my comfort zone, I’ve discovered new strengths and possibilities that I might not have found otherwise.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started my career in Ukraine at a very young age. My journey into major projects began at 16 when I worked on Ukrainian Fashion Week and joined a bridal company as a makeup artist. It was an incredibly emotional experience, teaching me how to handle any situation without stress. At 17, I opened my own studio because I had so many clients that I couldn’t find space to work with them. That same year, I won several makeup competitions, becoming the absolute champion of Ukraine—yes, makeup competitions do exist!

When I was 19, I represented Ukraine in the World Cup for makeup artists, securing 4th place. This year, I have the honor of representing Team USA, and I’m hopeful for a win. One of my favorite projects back home was working on The Voice, which was an incredible experience filled with long working days. I’m so grateful to everyone who believed in me and gave me opportunities, regardless of my age.

Recently, I moved to the United States on my own, and I’ve had the chance to work on projects I’m really proud of, such as New York Fashion Week, big film and music video sets, and providing hairstyling and makeup for the Oscars red carpet. I

And it was never easy. I’ve faced many challenges and tough days along the way. Like many creatives, I’ve experienced burnout and encountered people who questioned the seriousness of makeup and my ambitions. However, I consistently remind myself to persevere. I focus on my progress by comparing where I am now to where I started, and I make sure to take a moment to appreciate how far I’ve come whenever I feel it’s not enough.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I moved to LA three months ago after falling in love with the city during a work trip. Despite mixed opinions about LA, I’m captivated by its inspiration, vibrant creative community, and abundant opportunities. As a newcomer, I haven’t had the chance to explore extensively yet, but I do have a few favorite spots: the beach with its stunning mountain views, charming cafes and markets on weekends, and morning hikes near Hollywood—when I’m motivated. I’m looking forward to discovering more of what LA has to offer.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have to give a big shout out to my parents for always being there for me. They supported my passion for makeup from day one, even when I was just 14, waking up early to practice before school. Their encouragement meant the world to me, especially when I decided to turn my passion into a career. Thanks to their support, I was able to open my own studio back home at just 17. Their unwavering belief in me has given me the confidence to take risks and chase my dreams. My dad’s words, ‘Dream big,’ have always stuck with me and continue to motivate me to reach higher

Website: https://blablamakeup.com

Instagram: @bla_bla_makeup