As a beauty writer, makeup is one of my true joys. While it's true that my job allows me to test, try, and play with products, it's also peeled back the curtain on the artistry. Makeup is all about being creative, and professional artists have a passion for creating that goes far beyond that of the average enthusiast. Now, that's not to say that I don't enjoy a good DIY glam, but I've come to covet the time I've spent with MUAs -- especially when they're working from their personal brands.

It turns out that their passion extends beyond makeup application. Many artist-founded brands are rooted in quality, efficacy, and efficiency. As the experts, they have the insight and foresight to produce makeup that offers all three. With this in mind, I decided to round up the top products from some notable MUA-founded brands. Read on to see which items made the list.

Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder 

Complexion for black and brown skin has always been a sore spot in the makeup industry. Aside from having an inclusive shade range, the undertones of the products need to be distinct to highlight the complexities of deeper skin. With this unique formula, Danessa Myricks has done just that. The balm-to-powder consistency works on any skin type, hugging the skin to enhance its nuances. But on a deeper level, it blurs, hydrates, and helps your skin retain moisture, all while leaving it buttery smooth.

Makeup By Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette: The Original

Think back to your earliest memories using eyeshadow. What were the shades you gravitated toward most? Glitter and bright colors are fun, but when you're first learning, neutral tones are much easier to work with. Makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic took it back to the beginning and kicked things up a notch with his Master Mattes Palette. Composed of soft browns and nudes, it's the perfect combination for beginners and pros. The colors blend beautifully together to create a simple or smoldering smoky eye, but they can also be used individually to enhance the shape of your eyes.

Violette FR Petal Bouche Matte Liquid Lipstick

Founder and esteemed MUA only begin to describe Violette, the face behind her namesake brand. But her portfolio of work (we're talking collaborations with fashion houses and the glossy pages of fashion magazines) was just the start. After making a name for herself, she started Violette FR, and though the brand's lines include more than just makeup, her pigmented products are top-tier.

Of the bunch, the Petal Bouche Matte Liquid Lipstick is one of the most coveted. It has a creamy formula that clings to your lips yet is comfortable. Even the texture is one-of-a-kind. Unlike other liquid lipsticks, it's designed in the likeness of a rose petal -- think velvet to the touch and intense, dramatic pigmentation. Sure, it's not for the timid, but having just one of the three rouge shades in your collection is a treat.

Pat McGrath Heart's Desire Highlighter & Brush Duo

Mother McGrath is known for her many contributions to the beauty and fashion industry. However, if it came down to the wire, and you had to invest in just one of her iconic products, the Heart's Desire Highlighter is the one to choose. The sleek black compact houses a gilded medallion of powder that delivers the artist's signature lit-from-within glow. Like most of the products in her line, this highlighter has an intense color payoff. But that doesn't mean it can't be worn daily. A light swipe across the eyelids subtly brightens them. Of course, if you want to fully embrace McGrath's ultra-luxe personality, you can use the accompanying soft-bristled brush to give your cheekbones an immaculate glow.