Tamsen Rae on cosmetic tattooing, creative instinct, and the power of subtle transformation
Some artists follow trends, while others quietly shape the future of beauty through instinct, experience, and an unwavering trust in their craft. Tamsen Rae belongs to the latter. With a journey that bridges makeup artistry, tattooing, and advanced cosmetic techniques, her work is defined by a rare balance of technical precision and intuitive design. Known for creating results that feel effortless yet transformative, she approaches every face as both a canvas and a collaboration. In this exclusive feature with Meri & Rime, she shares the evolution of her career and the philosophy behind her artistry.
Honestly, this was always the dream. Even as a teenager, I knew I wanted to be a cosmetic tattoo artist, but at the time the industry had not yet reached the level it is today. I did begin with an apprenticeship in tattooing, but I found myself naturally drawn toward beauty and special effects makeup. Then everything changed when microblading became more visible. At that time, very few people in Montreal were offering it, so I decided to train and step into that space. With my background in both tattooing and makeup, everything finally aligned in a way that felt natural and right.
Balancing artistry with technical precision is something that comes from both skill and intuition. A lot of my process is guided by feeling rather than rigid rules. Of course, symmetry is important, but true artistry comes from creating brows that genuinely belong to someone’s face. No face is perfectly symmetrical, so I consider angles, expressions, muscle movement, and how features evolve over time. I try not to overthink the process. I trust what I see and what I feel, and that is where the best results come from.
My experience in film, fashion, and bridal has shaped my work in ways that I carry with me every day. Special effects makeup, in particular, trained my eye to create subtle illusions, which translates beautifully into cosmetic tattooing. While these fields may seem very different, they complement each other in a unique way. Throughout my makeup career, I was always known for brows. They have such a powerful impact on the face, often becoming the feature that defines and elevates everything else.
Helping clients feel comfortable with treatments like nano brows begins with communication. Every appointment starts with a conversation. I take time to explain the entire process and understand what the client truly wants. It is natural for people to feel both excited and nervous, especially when it involves something as personal as a face treatment. My approach is always focused on subtle and natural results, because even the smallest adjustment can create a meaningful and beautiful change.
When it comes to beauty standards, I do not believe Gen Z is shaping them as much as people assume. I often see more influence coming from women who have experienced different beauty eras, especially those who lived through trends like the thin brows of the nineties. They bring a deeper understanding of what works and what lasts. There is something powerful about the confidence and knowledge that comes with experience, and that continues to inspire modern beauty in a very real way.
Restorative work is something I connect with on a deeply personal level.
For many clients, especially those living with scars, alopecia, or hair loss following chemotherapy or significant hormonal changes—the experience extends far beyond aesthetics. It can play a role in healing, in reclaiming a sense of self, and in moving forward. While each person’s emotional journey is unique, being able to help soften visible reminders of the past is something I genuinely value.
This work is not simply about appearance; it’s about offering support in a way that feels meaningful and affirming.
The future of the industry is incredibly exciting. Technology continues to evolve, bringing new tools and techniques that expand what is possible. However, no matter how advanced things become, one element will always remain essential, and that is human connection. The trust built between artist and client, the shared experience, and the understanding developed over time are things that technology cannot replace. That connection is the true foundation of this work.
Rather than focusing on trends, I believe in the timeless value of enhancing what someone naturally has. Working with a person’s unique features instead of trying to change them will always remain relevant. Beauty that feels authentic never goes out of style. For me, the greatest inspiration is always the individual sitting in front of me. Each face tells its own story, and that is where the artistry begins.
A perfect self care day in Montreal reflects both the energy of the city and the comfort of home. There are so many beautiful places to explore, from spas like Bota Bota to art galleries and live music spaces. But at the same time, there is something equally fulfilling about staying in, creating a calm environment, and taking time for personal rituals. That balance between external inspiration and internal peace is what truly recharges me.
What often surprises people about cosmetic tattooing is how much work happens behind the scenes. It is an ongoing process of learning, adapting, and refining techniques. Beyond the artistry, there is also the reality of running a business, managing operations, staying organized, and maintaining consistency. It requires both creativity and discipline. While the creative side is what people see, the structure behind it is what sustains everything.
Tamsen Rae’s approach to beauty is a quiet statement of intention, one that values authenticity over excess and connection over perfection. Her work reminds us that true transformation does not come from dramatic change, but from understanding, enhancing, and respecting what is already there. In a world that often chases trends, her perspective brings beauty back to its most meaningful form, personal, intuitive, and deeply human.
