Ep 1. Magazine Beauty Editorial

In the first episode of Glow Up season 1, the show introduces us to a group of ten hopefuls, all bringing different backgrounds and experiences to the competition. We meet contestants like Andrew, a makeup artist who only started practicing a year prior, and Ellis, a former bartender who found his passion for makeup through drag. The episode wastes no time in diving straight into the competition, with the contestants being tasked with creating a magazine beauty editorial.

The competitors split into two teams, with each team given a different magazine theme to base their editorial around. One team is given "Vogue" and the other "i-D", both iconic fashion magazines with well-defined aesthetics. Working within their teams, the contestants must create three different looks, each one evoking the theme of their chosen magazine. They have three hours to create their looks, and the pressure is on from the very beginning.

The contestants start brainstorming, discussing different makeup styles and editorial concepts. Many of them are unsure of what exactly constitutes a "beauty editorial", but they know they need to come up with something that stands out. Some of the contestants struggle to communicate their ideas with their teammates, while others are confident in their abilities and take charge of their teams.

As the countdown begins, the contestants start working on their models. They use a range of tools and techniques to create their looks, from airbrushing to sculpting with foundation and contour. Some of the contestants struggle with the time limit, falling behind as they try to perfect their makeup. Others work quickly and efficiently, using their time wisely to create stunning editorial looks.

Once the three hours are up, the teams present their editorials to the judges. The contestants walk their models down a makeshift runway, showing off their makeup looks alongside the props and outfits they've chosen to complement them. The judges – makeup artist Val Garland and photographer Rankin – examine each of the three looks from both teams, looking for creativity, originality, and technical skill.

The judges deliberate, acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses of each team's editorial. They ultimately choose a winner, with one team being granted immunity from elimination for the next round. The losing team must then head to the elimination challenge, where one of their members will be sent home.

The first episode of Glow Up season 1 sets a high standard for the rest of the series. It showcases the talents and personalities of each of the contestants, giving them all a chance to shine. The episode perfectly balances the process of creating a beauty editorial with the drama of competition, resulting in an entertaining and engaging hour of television. Viewers are sure to become invested in the contestants and curious about the challenges to come.