Gabby Houghton on Confidence, Creativity and Self-Expression

In this episode of Beyond The Mirror, Aleph Beauty founder Emma Peters sits down with makeup artist, educator and content creator Gabby Houghton for a conversation about beauty, creativity, confidence and showing up authentically online.

As Gabby creates Emma’s makeup, they reflect on beauty as a feeling and a form of self-expression. For Gabby, colour, texture and the simple act of taking time with skincare or makeup can offer confidence, particularly on harder days.

The conversation explores the changing beauty landscape, from natural, quietly considered makeup to bold colour, shimmer and more expressive looks. Gabby shares why she believes makeup should feel playful and unrestricted, rather than guided by rules around age, face shape or what someone should and should not wear.

Emma and Gabby also discuss the importance of nuanced colour and products designed to work with the natural tones of the skin. They talk about mixing, layering and using makeup in different ways, allowing a smaller, more considered collection to offer endless creative possibilities.

Gabby reflects on building her career, stepping into education and learning to trust the value of her own experience. She also shares how preparing for motherhood has encouraged her to simplify her business, refine her processes and rethink where her time and energy are best spent.

At its heart, the episode is a reminder that beauty does not need to be perfect or prescriptive. It can be creative, comforting and personal, helping us feel more confident and more like ourselves.