Billy B. marvels at the legacy of makeup master Kevyn Aucoin.	June 1, 2004 American Salon
	It's hard to believe it has already been two years since we lost the incomparable Kevyn Aucoin. Recently, we have been reminded too often how fragile our time is here. In the past few years we've said good-bye to so many fashion giants-Herb Ritts, Helmut Newton and Francesco Scavullo. I had the honor of knowing and working with Herb and sweet Francesco, but I never had the pleasure of knowing Helmut Newton. And although I never met Kevyn, I felt close to him. I wouldn't compare myself to him in any way, other than we're both Southerners and self-taught, and we both moved to New York City to chase after our dreams. Even though we didn't know each other, he thanked me along with many other makeup artists in his book Making Faces for inspiring and teaching him. I didn't even think he knew who I was! To this day and every day I live, it is the single most validating thing anyone has ever done for my self-confidence. To be acknowledged by your professional idol in such a way is a gift, one that keeps on giving to this day. Now he has given all of us a gift with his incredible makeup line, Kevyn Aucoin. Kevyn had an incredible eye for color. I would stare at his choices of lip shades that ranged from the deepest aubergine to the creamiest beige. Somehow they always seemed to be exactly right. Well, now the guesswork is gone with what Kevyn created so skillfully for us. His brushes are insanely luxurious, and the concealer/foundation is the most astounding product I have ever seen-a tiny pot of magic. It gives new meaning to "a little dab'll do ya." Kevyn would be proud of this line. Its delivery to the public is lovingly carried out by his dear friend and creative director Eric Sakas and Kevyn's father (sadly, his mother has passed away since his death). Luckily for all of us, the magic of Kevyn Aucoin lives on.