In Conversation with Emma Aerin Becker: Inside the World of Beauty Writing at ELLE

By Mia Dubin

Emma Aerin Becker is more than just a beauty writer at ELLE, one of the country’s leading lifestyle and beauty magazines; she is a reminder to young women that no dream is too small.

I had the immense honor of speaking with Becker about all things beauty, trends, MUUZes, lifestyle, and, of course, advice. Through our conversation, she emphasized the importance of self-belief and the idea that there are no limits to success.

Becker shared that she has always loved writing, recalling how she was essentially the “blogger” of her third-grade class. It was not until middle school that she began exploring beauty writing, driven in part by her experience with acne and her interest in skincare. During the beauty guru era, she also experimented with makeup as a way to build confidence and feel more comfortable in her own skin, quite literally.

After working as a freelance writer and previously at PEOPLE magazine, where she covered celebrity parent news, Becker joined ELLE. While she enjoyed her time there, she said she was always most passionate about beauty journalism.

“Working at ELLE is my pinch-me moment,” Becker said.

She emphasized that one of her favorite parts of the job is that no two days are the same. There are always different events and assignments, whether it is attending a workout class with a brand, conducting an afternoon interview, or going to dinner with a brand partner. On other days, she may be in the office all day, but the variety is constant.

When it comes to advice for young women entering the beauty and journalism industry, Becker said it is to be a go-getter.

“You can’t be afraid to put yourself out there,” Becker said. “Send that follow-up email, ask for the coffee date, that is everything!”

When it comes to fashion trends, Becker is a big fan of long, voluminous hair. She loves hair care and long, luxurious extensions. However, she is not a fan of blurred lips with lip liner. Becker said she prefers a more defined lip, as she appreciates a crisp, clean line. 

Becker says she is OBSESSED with anything Victoria Beckham Beauty and the One Size setting spray, joking how she goes through so many bottles.

When it comes to MUUZes, Becker said her mom, Hollee Becker, is her biggest role model. 

“My mom has always encouraged me to use my voice. I am under 5 ft tall with a loud, big personality, so instead of quieting me down, she always encouraged me to use my voice,” Becker said. “Also, besides showing me the ropes of writing, she got me to do it.”

Talking about her favorite interviews she has done so far, one of the first highlights that came to Becker’s mind was her conversation with Donni Davy, the makeup artist for Euphoria. Writing about and discussing the show through the lens of beauty was a dream come true for her. She especially loved exploring how makeup is used as a form of storytelling throughout the series. 

Another highlight for Becker was interviewing Hilarie Burton from One Tree Hill while working at PEOPLE magazine. She explained that the show has been one of her favorites for years.

She also shared that she spoke with Alix Earle about her skincare line, Reale Actives, noting that it was her first in-person interview, which made the experience especially memorable.

Her dream interview would be Emma Chamberlain.

“She was my best friend in high school; she just doesn’t know it,” Becker joked. “I would love to talk to her for an hour, talking beauty or not.”

Overall, Becker taught me the importance of being a go-getter and of chasing your dreams with confidence. Her journey is a reminder that opportunities are often created, not just found, and that putting yourself out there can open doors you never expected to open. So next time, think of Emma when you want to make your dream your reality, just like she did.