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Tag: Beauty

  • Olandria & MAC Celebrate Blush on Deep Skin

    Get ready to glow! Olandria Carthen, affectionately known as the ‘Bama Barbie,’ is making waves again, this time as the stunning face of MAC Cosmetics’ latest collaboration. Partnering with celebrity makeup artist Ngozi Esther Edeme, aka @paintedbyesther, the ‘Blush-Worthy’ collection is all about celebrating the power and beauty of blush, especially on deep skin tones.

    A Match Made in Makeup Heaven

    This isn’t Olandria’s first rodeo in the fashion and beauty world, but this collaboration with MAC feels particularly special. Alongside the talented Painted By Esther, Olandria showcases how blush can truly enhance and highlight the natural beauty of melanated skin. The campaign imagery is vibrant, featuring bold pinks and blacks, drawing attention to Olandria’s flawless complexion and the impactful application of blush.

    Olandria herself shared her enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of embracing blush: ‘I truly feel like it brings out my features, and I really want a lotta women with deep, dark skin tones to not be scared to put blush on. It’s beautiful, and it highlights our beauty that we already have within.’

    The Artistry of Painted By Esther

    Painted By Esther is renowned for her masterful blush application, having worked with an impressive roster of stars including Viola Davis, Cassie, Tyla, and Keke Palmer. Her philosophy is simple yet impactful: ‘Something HAS to pop on the face.’ For her, blush has always been the key element to achieve that striking effect, drawing inspiration from the bold makeup trends of the early 2000s.

    The excitement from fans is palpable online, with many praising the perfect pairing of Olandria and Painted By Esther. Comments like ‘Olandria and Esther are a match made in heaven’ and ‘Let me get my card ready to spend’ highlight the anticipation and love for this collaboration.

    A Timely Collaboration Amidst Industry Buzz

    Adding another layer of intrigue, the timing of this MAC launch coincides with online discussions surrounding makeup artist Patrick Ta and Painted By Esther. Some social media users have pointed out similarities between Ta’s recent blush collection and techniques popularized by Esther, raising questions about credit and inspiration within the beauty industry. MAC’s decision to spotlight Esther and Olandria feels like a powerful statement, celebrating Esther’s expertise and supporting her entrepreneurial endeavors.

    • Olandria Carthen is the face of the new MAC x Painted By Esther collection.
    • The collaboration focuses on blush application for deep skin tones.
    • Painted By Esther is a celebrated makeup artist known for her bold blush techniques.
    • Fans are excited about the partnership and the product launch.
    • The timing of the release sparks industry conversations about artistic credit.

    This ‘Blush-Worthy’ collection is more than just makeup; it’s a celebration of beauty, artistry, and representation. It encourages everyone, especially those with deeper skin tones, to embrace bold color and enhance their natural radiance.

    What do you think of the MAC x Painted By Esther collaboration? Are you excited to try out some new blush shades? Let us know in the comments below!

  • 8 Best Blushes For Black Women

    In the ever-evolving world of beauty, blush remains a key product for adding warmth, dimension, and a healthy flush to the complexion. But for Black women, finding shades that truly complement and pop on melanin-rich skin can sometimes be a challenge. Thankfully, the beauty landscape is increasingly catering to deeper skin tones, with many brands prioritizing rich pigmentation and innovative formulas.

    Celebrating Black-Owned Beauty Innovations

    The beauty community has recently been buzzing about the importance of supporting Black-owned brands, especially after discussions arose concerning makeup artist Esther Edeme’s signature blush technique and Juvia’s Place’s richly pigmented blushes. These conversations highlight the creativity and innovation within the Black beauty space and underscore the need to champion these brands.

    With that in mind, we’ve curated a list of eight of the best blushes designed to enhance the natural radiance of Black women. These selections range from intensely pigmented powders to creamy, blendable formulas, ensuring there’s something for every preference and occasion.

    Top Blush Picks for Melanin-Rich Skin

    Here are our top picks guaranteed to add depth, dimension, and a vibrant flush to your makeup look:

    1. **Juvia’s Place Blushed Duo Blush:** The original creator of richly pigmented, complementary powder hues that work for both everyday and bold looks. A little goes a long way!
    2. **The Lip Bar Fresh Glow Dream Blush:** A liquid blush that’s lightweight, nourishing, and delivers high color payoff with a beautiful satin-matte, second-skin finish.
    3. **LYS Beauty Higher Standard Cream and Powder Multidimensional Longwear Blush Duo:** This innovative duo bridges skincare and makeup, formulated with green tea extract and niacinamide for a healthy, balanced complexion with high impact.
    4. **Mented Cosmetics Make You Blush:** A blendable, buildable powder blush infused with vitamin E for nourished, pigmented color that lasts.
    5. **Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder (Flushed):** A versatile matte color that works beautifully on both cheeks and lips, offering a blurring effect.
    6. **Fenty Beauty Shake N’ Play Buildable Liquid Blush:** A cult-favorite liquid blush known for its natural, blurred finish, long-lasting wear, and mess-minimizing applicator.
    7. **Pat McGrath Skin Fetish: Divine Powder Blush:** A luxurious pressed powder formula that feels silky smooth, offering buildable medium coverage for a lasting, radiant flush.
    8. **Mac Cosmetics (Collaboration with Painted By Esther):** A timely collaboration that pays homage to makeup artist Esther Edeme, showcasing how larger brands can partner with trendsetters while honoring their artistry.

    Whether you’re looking to refresh your makeup bag or actively seeking to support Black-owned beauty brands, this list offers exceptional options. Each product is chosen for its ability to deliver vibrant color, blend seamlessly, and enhance the unique beauty of Black skin tones.

    What are your go-to blush shades or brands for melanin-rich skin? Share your favorites in the comments below!

  • Ngozi Edeme Calls Out Patrick Ta for “Melted Blush” Technique

    In a beauty industry where Black creators often see their innovations replicated without credit, makeup artist Ngozi Edeme, known online as Painted By Esther, is speaking out. She fears facing the “angry Black woman” trope after celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta’s brand released a collection that appears to mimic her signature “Melted Blush” technique.

    The “Melted Blush” Controversy

    Edeme, celebrated for her “Melted Blush” technique that creates a flawless, vibrant pink finish on deep skin tones, has worked with stars like Tyla, Saweetie, and Kelly Rowland. Her artistry has also led to masterclasses alongside industry giants like Danessa Myricks. The beauty community was stunned when Patrick Ta Beauty launched its “Transitional Blush” collection, featuring shades designed to replicate Edeme’s signature look, complete with branding that reportedly attempts to trademark the very phrase she popularized.

    In a recent TikTok video, Edeme expressed her apprehension about speaking out, stating, “I’m honestly very nervous to make this video.” She refuses to be silenced by the fear of unfair labeling, despite the risks. She detailed unsettling “weird experiences” with Patrick Ta over the years, including a recent booking request from the brand’s co-founder while she was in Los Angeles.

    A Pattern of Concerns for Black Creators

    This isn’t the first time Patrick Ta Beauty has faced scrutiny regarding its relationship with Black creators. In late 2024, influencer Avonna Sunshine accused the brand of failing to compensate Black creators for marketing work, leading to public apologies and a review of their payment processes. Edeme noted the “convenient timing” of these events, pointing out how Ta’s promotional content quickly mirrored her specific techniques, even using her unique phrasing like “back of your palm” instead of “back of your hand.”

    While Edeme humbly acknowledges she didn’t “invent” the blush technique itself, she is widely credited with popularizing it and making it a staple for Black women over the past few years. She consistently pays homage to industry pioneers but emphasizes her dedication to celebrating Black culture and pushing for inclusivity in beauty.

    Industry Reactions and Support

    Facing the controversy, Patrick Ta eventually responded, stating, “I do not own this look,” while tagging Edeme and acknowledging her work. However, the situation gained further attention when beauty influencer Jackie Aina reviewed Ta’s new blushes. While Aina expressed indifference towards the liquid blush, she was more positive about the duo. When pressed by commenters to weigh in on the Edeme-Ta drama, Aina declined to get involved directly but firmly stated she would not support Juvia’s Place due to a past dispute, warning followers against calling her a “sell out” or “hypocrite.”

    Aina left the decision to support Patrick Ta’s brand up to the consumers, stating it’s “not my job” to fight his battles. Edeme’s experience highlights a persistent issue in the beauty industry where Black creativity is often appropriated, underscoring the need for greater recognition and respect for Black artists.

    What are your thoughts on the “Melted Blush” controversy? Do you believe Patrick Ta Beauty adequately credited Ngozi Edeme? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • Olandria Carthen Stars in MAC x Painted By Esther Blush Campaign

    Get ready for a major beauty moment! Influencer Olandria Carthen, famously known as the “Bama Barbie,” is making waves again, this time as the face of MAC Cosmetics’ latest campaign. She’s teamed up with celebrity makeup artist Ngozi Esther Edeme, widely known as @paintedbyesther, for a collection that’s all about celebrating the power of blush, especially on deep skin tones.

    Blush is the Star of the Show

    This “painted partnership” between MAC and Painted By Esther highlights Olandria Carthen as the perfect muse. The campaign features stunning visuals that not only showcase Olandria’s natural beauty but also emphasize how blush can beautifully enhance features on melanated skin. It’s a bold statement, encouraging more women with deep and dark skin tones to embrace blush.

    Olandria herself expressed her love for blush, shouting out Esther for her expertise. “I truly feel like it brings out my features, and I really want a lotta women with deep, dark skin tones to not be scared to put blush on,” she shared. “It’s beautiful, and it highlights our beauty that we already have within.”

    Painted By Esther: The Blush GOAT

    There’s no doubt that Painted By Esther is a master of blush application. Her signature style, which she describes as “Something HAS to pop on the face,” has graced the faces of numerous celebrities, including Viola Davis, Cassie, Tyla, Justine Skye, and Keke Palmer. Her bold approach, inspired by early 2000s trends, is all about making blush a statement feature.

    The collaboration has already generated significant buzz online, with fans expressing excitement and readiness to shop. Comments like “Olandria and Esther are a match made in heaven” and “Let me get my card ready to spend” show the strong reception from the beauty community.

    A Timely Collaboration Amidst Industry Buzz

    The timing of this MAC x Painted By Esther launch is particularly interesting. It comes amidst online discussions and allegations that makeup artist Patrick Ta’s recent blush collection may have been inspired by techniques popularized by Painted By Esther, without proper credit. Social media users have been vocal in their support for Esther, suggesting that MAC’s collaboration with her and Olandria serves as a powerful statement.

    By featuring Esther and the popular Olandria Carthen, MAC is not only celebrating Esther’s talent and expertise but also providing her with a significant platform and opportunity. This move feels like a direct nod to the artistry and influence of Painted By Esther in the beauty world.

    What do you think of the MAC x Painted By Esther collaboration? Are you excited to try out the new blush shades? Let us know in the comments below!

  • ‘Belle Collective’ Reunion: Stormi & Tiffaney’s ‘Mop’ Feud

    The drama from ‘Belle Collective: Birmingham’ is far from over! In an exclusive clip from the show’s reunion special, titled ‘Power, Pressure & Betrayal,’ we see beauty mogul Stormi Steele and entrepreneur Tiffaney Jones hashing out lingering resentment from a joke that clearly didn’t land well.

    The Infamous ‘Mop’ Joke

    The conflict originated from a game night hosted by Tiffaney. When Stormi and Amber arrived without their husbands, they ended up helping with guest greetings and cleanup. At the end of the night, Tiffaney made a joke, thanking Stormi for “messing up” the event, which Stormi took offense to. Tiffaney’s playful response, “Now I need you to mop,” clearly struck a nerve and lingered long after the cameras stopped rolling.

    During the reunion, Stormi explained that the issue wasn’t just the joke itself, but how the situation escalated without clear communication. She expressed frustration that the conflict couldn’t be resolved more quickly, stating, “How did we get so far removed from me being able to say, ‘I didn’t like the mop comment?’”

    Escalating Tensions and Misunderstandings

    Stormi felt that tensions escalated significantly after Tiffaney’s friend, Synetta, got involved in an off-camera conversation. Stormi was keen to understand exactly what was said, emphasizing the importance of ‘the whys’ in resolving conflict. Tiffaney, on the other hand, maintained that she tried to apologize but struggled because she didn’t fully grasp the extent of Stormi’s offense.

    The conversation grew more heated when the reunion host, Carlos King, questioned Stormi about addressing the issue in the moment. Stormi explained her focus was on a major livestream event for her company, Canvas Beauty, which she described as a significant financial undertaking for the year.

    A Fiery Climax

    The back-and-forth devolved into interruptions and accusations, with claims that Stormi only cared about money. The argument reached its peak when Tiffaney circled back to the original ‘mop’ comment with a final, cutting remark about Stormi’s hairstyle, saying, “Damn, your hair look like a goddamn mop today!”

    The reunion special promises to delve into other cast members’ storylines as well, including K’La Inman defending her character, Funmi Ford facing an unexpected challenge, and Amber Jones revealing her true loyalties. The question remains: can this sisterhood survive the season’s betrayals?

    What are your thoughts on the ‘mop’ joke drama between Stormi and Tiffaney? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Patrick Ta Accused of Copying Black Artist’s Blush Technique

    In the vibrant world of beauty, innovation is key. But what happens when a groundbreaking technique, popularized by a Black artist, is allegedly copied and trademarked by a major brand? That’s the controversy currently surrounding makeup artist Ngozi Edeme, known online as Painted By Esther, and Patrick Ta Beauty.

    The ‘Melted Blush’ Controversy

    Ngozi Edeme gained significant traction last year for her signature ‘Melted Blush’ technique, which creates a flawless, vibrant blush finish on deep skin tones. Her artistry has graced the faces of stars like Tyla, Saweetie, and Kelly Rowland, and she’s even toured with music icons like Monica and Brandy. Her unique approach, particularly her use of the powder puff for a specific transition blush effect and her distinctive phrase ‘back of your palm,’ has become synonymous with her brand.

    However, fans were stunned when Patrick Ta Beauty launched its ‘Transitional Blush’ collection, featuring a lineup seemingly designed to replicate Edeme’s signature look. Reports suggest the brand even attempted to trademark the very phrase that defines the technique. Edeme expressed her apprehension about speaking out, fearing the ‘angry Black woman’ trope, but ultimately decided to address the situation.

    A Pattern of Concern?

    This isn’t the first time Patrick Ta Beauty has faced scrutiny regarding Black creators. In late 2024, influencer Avonna Sunshine accused the brand of failing to compensate Black creators for marketing work, leading to public apologies and a review of their payment processes. This history has fueled concerns that the current situation with Edeme might be part of a larger pattern.

    Edeme noted that her interactions with Patrick Ta have been ‘weird,’ detailing unsettling encounters. The timing of Ta’s promotional content mirroring her specific techniques and even linguistic quirks, like using ‘back of your palm,’ has raised eyebrows.

    Industry Reactions and Calls for Recognition

    While Patrick Ta eventually acknowledged Edeme, stating, ‘I do not own this look,’ and tagging her, the situation highlights a persistent issue: Black creatives often struggle for due recognition and fair treatment in industries like beauty. Edeme, while humble and acknowledging industry pioneers, has undeniably made her technique a staple, particularly for Black women.

    Beauty influencer Jackie Aina weighed in on the controversy, noting her indifference to Ta’s liquid blush but expressing reservations about the duo. When pressed by followers to comment on the Edeme situation, Aina stated she wouldn’t insert herself but affirmed that consumers have the right to choose whether or not to support the brand.

    Even in 2025, we’re seeing our creativity and ideas being ‘reinvented’ or straight-up stolen, but we aren’t stopping. — Ngozi Edeme (Painted By Esther)

    Edeme remains committed to her craft and celebrating Black culture within the beauty space, declaring, ‘I live and breathe this craft every single day—and I’m not going anywhere.’ The advocacy from fans underscores a growing demand for accountability and respect for Black artists’ contributions.

    What are your thoughts on this controversy? Do you believe Patrick Ta Beauty adequately credited Ngozi Edeme? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • Method Man & Wife Tamika: 25 Years of Black Love

    Get ready for some serious #BlackLove goals! Hip-hop legend and “Power Book II: Ghost” star Method Man recently gave fans a rare and beautiful glimpse into his personal life, stepping out with his wife of 25 years, Tamika Smith. The couple made a stunning appearance at Madison Square Garden for a New York Knicks game, and the internet is absolutely buzzing.

    A Private Life, Publicly Celebrated

    Method Man, known for his timeless good looks and undeniable charisma, is notoriously private about his family life, especially his wife. For decades, he’s fiercely protected Tamika from the media spotlight. In fact, back in 2016, he even left social media after an unapproved paparazzi photo of her surfaced, emphasizing his commitment to her privacy.

    However, during this recent Knicks game, the power couple seemed to embrace the attention. Sitting courtside, they were photographed looking incredibly happy and relaxed, radiating a deep sense of love. Tamika looked absolutely radiant, and fans quickly took to social media to praise the couple’s effortless style and their enduring bond.

    From Personal Assistant to Lifelong Partner

    The love story between Clifford Smith (Method Man) and Tamika Smith is the definition of a modern fairy tale, built on a foundation of trust and resilience. Their journey began in 1997 when Tamika started working as Clifford’s personal assistant. What started as a professional relationship quickly evolved into a deep friendship.

    • **1999:** After two years of building trust and a strong connection, the couple got engaged.
    • **2001:** They tied the knot in a private ceremony, officially beginning their lifelong union.
    • **Over 25 Years:** Together, they have raised three children—sons Sha and Raekwon, and daughter Cheyenne—while keeping their family life shielded from Hollywood’s intense scrutiny.

    Weathering Storms Together

    What makes their bond so respected is the fact that they’ve navigated immense challenges side-by-side. In 2006, Tamika was diagnosed with breast cancer. Method Man fiercely protected her privacy during her grueling chemotherapy treatments, going to bat against media leaks. Through strength and solidarity, Tamika successfully beat the disease and has been cancer-free for years.

    When asked about the secret to their long-lasting marriage in the often-turbulent entertainment industry, Method Man shared classic advice: “Don’t talk about it. The more you keep things private in between you and her, it’s more personal that way and it lasts longer.” Their glowing appearance at Madison Square Garden is a powerful testament to this philosophy and the strength of their partnership.

    What do you admire most about Method Man and Tamika’s relationship? Do you think keeping celebrity relationships private is key to their longevity? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Lil Wayne Reportedly Engaged to 23-Year-Old Indiana Creator

    Hold onto your hats, hip-hop fans! A surprising rumor is making waves across the internet: rap legend Lil Wayne is reportedly engaged. But the twist? His alleged fiancée is reportedly a 23-year-old social media creator from Indiana, a detail that has the internet buzzing, especially given the 20-year age difference.

    Who is the Alleged Fiancée?

    According to reports, the woman in question is a mixed-race digital creator from Kokomo, Indiana, known online as @xomadik. She has been building a loyal following with her aesthetic content and fashion sense. While undeniably stunning, her youthful appearance at just 23 has drawn significant attention, with many noting she was a toddler when Lil Wayne released his classic album ‘Tha Carter’ in 2004.

    The stark generational gap has sparked a flurry of commentary online, with many joking that Wayne, 43, is old enough to be her uncle. However, the age-old saying about age being just a number certainly applies when a hip-hop billionaire is involved, potentially offering private jet rides to escape chilly Midwestern winters.

    The Kokomo Connection

    How did an international rap superstar connect with a young woman from a small Midwestern town? Sources from Kokomo suggest the romance isn’t entirely new to those in her inner circle, hinting it’s been a quiet open secret for some time. The connection might stem from Lil Wayne’s well-known passion for skateboarding. He’s reportedly been seen frequenting Indiana skateparks over the years, seeking spots away from the spotlight to practice his skills.

    While it’s unconfirmed if a skatepark encounter sparked their romance, it offers a plausible explanation for the rap icon’s presence in the area. This unexpected pairing has disrupted the typical celebrity dating narrative, which often involves high-profile figures from major coastal cities.

    Social Media Breadcrumbs and Speculation

    Neither Lil Wayne nor his alleged fiancée have publicly confirmed the engagement rumors. However, the lack of a formal denial has only fueled further speculation. Social media sleuths have been piecing together digital clues, including recent follows, likes, and matching location tags, that seem to align with the timeline provided by sources close to the couple.

    The contrast between Lil Wayne’s famously vibrant, rock-and-roll lifestyle and the serene pace of a Midwestern town provides ample material for internet entertainment. Whether this engagement is confirmed or remains a private matter, the young woman from Indiana has certainly captured the attention of the hip-hop world.

    What do you think about the rumors surrounding Lil Wayne’s engagement? Is it a genuine connection or just internet speculation? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

  • 6 Black-Owned Sunscreens for Melanated Skin

    Happy National Sunscreen Day! While the saying “Black don’t crack” holds some truth, it doesn’t mean melanin is immune to sun damage, premature aging, or skin cancer. Thankfully, the beauty industry has evolved, with Black-owned brands stepping up to create effective, nourishing sunscreens specifically designed for melanated skin – and yes, they’re white-cast-free!

    Why Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable

    Finding the right sunscreen can sometimes feel like a chore, battling formulas that leave a ghostly residue or feel sticky and uncomfortable. However, the risks associated with sun exposure – from sunburn to long-term skin damage – make it an essential step in any skincare routine. The good news is that Black entrepreneurs are leading the charge in making sun protection accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

    These brands understand the unique needs of melanated consumers, offering a variety of options from traditional creams to makeup-friendly alternatives. Whether you prefer a lightweight feel or a formula that doubles as a moisturizer, there’s a Black-owned sunscreen out there ready to become your new holy grail.

    6 Black-Owned Sunscreens to Try

    • **Buttah Skin Invisible Tinted Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 30:** This popular tinted sunscreen blends seamlessly, leaving no gray or whitish cast. Its zinc oxide formula creates a protective shield on the skin’s surface to reflect UV rays.
    • **Brownkind Sheer Facial Sunscreen:** Designed by dermatologists for all skin types, this lightweight, fragrance-free chemical sunscreen features the brand’s Even Tone Defender™ formula, packed with vitamin C and phytonutrients to brighten and even out skin tone.
    • **Cay Skin Isle Lip Balm:** Don’t forget your lips! This vanilla brown sugar-scented lip balm hydrates, protects, and adds a subtle tint, ensuring your pout is shielded from the sun.
    • **Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Glow SPF 30:** A favorite in sun protection, this spray formula is infused with soothing avocado and jojoba to moisturize, while glycerin locks in hydration for lasting comfort.
    • **Bolden Sunscreen Moisturizer:** This multitasking formula goes beyond sun protection. It enhances skin texture, minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, is non-comedogenic, hydrating, and helps reduce inflammation.
    • **Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Broad Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30:** While not exclusively Black-owned, Rihanna’s Fenty Skin brand is celebrated for its inclusive approach. This mineral sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection and hydration.

    Incorporating these nourishing, white-cast-free sunscreens into your daily routine is a fantastic way to protect your skin while supporting Black entrepreneurs. Happy shopping, and remember to stay sun-safe!

    Which of these Black-owned sunscreen brands are you excited to try? Do you have any other favorites to recommend? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Patrick Ta & Painted by Esther Drama

    Blush has been a beauty staple for ages, but a recent online debate has turned rosy cheeks into a powerful statement about how the beauty industry treats Black women. The controversy surrounding makeup artist Patrick Ta’s latest product release and its similarities to the signature style of makeup artist Ngozi Esther Edeme, famously known as Painted by Esther, has struck a chord with many, particularly Black women.

    A Signature Style Under Scrutiny

    Painted by Esther has built a strong reputation for her bold, rosy cheek and under-eye looks that flatter a wide range of complexions. Her influence is evident in the surge of vibrant blush trends seen across social media, red carpets, and fashion shows, especially among Black women. The issue arose when Patrick Ta launched new blush products, and social media users quickly noticed the striking resemblance between his technique and Esther’s established style.

    The frustration isn’t about the color of the blush itself, but rather the perception that a brand, led by a Vietnamese American artist, may have capitalized on a technique popularized by a Black woman without giving proper credit. This pattern—where Black women are often the muses but rarely the acknowledged sources of inspiration—is a persistent issue in the beauty world.

    A Pattern of Uncredited Influence

    This isn’t the first time Patrick Ta’s brand has faced criticism related to Black creatives. In 2024, content creator Avonna Sunshine went viral for calling out the brand for allegedly not paying her for a campaign. She questioned how Black creators who heavily support the brand would feel knowing this. Jools Lebron also claimed she wasn’t paid for a campaign with Ta around the same time.

    In response to the current blush controversy, Ta posted a TikTok acknowledging Esther’s talent and influence, stating, “She popularized this look through her work and through Olandria. I also have been doing this blush look since 2021. Not the same as Esther but my own version.” However, this came after Esther herself addressed the situation hesitantly in a TikTok video.

    The Weight of Being a Black Woman in the Industry

    Esther expressed her exhaustion with constantly being spoken for and the fear of being labeled an “angry Black woman” when advocating for herself. She clarified that she never claimed to have started the trend, emphasizing her respect for artists like Kevyn Aucoin and Danessa Myricks. “I am 29 years old. That would be ludicrous to claim ownership of anything. But what you will not belittle is my influence,” she stated powerfully.

    Esther also recounted a peculiar experience with a member of Ta’s team who requested to record her makeup session, which felt “conniving.” She highlighted the difficulty of being a Black woman in the industry, where one often has to “fight twice as hard to get just half of what you deserve.” The core request from Esther, and Black women in the industry at large, is simple: respect and acknowledgment of their influence.

    This situation underscores a broader issue of cultural appropriation and lack of credit within the beauty world. While social media facilitates conversation, the question remains whether these public debates are ultimately helpful or harmful, especially when they center on a Black woman’s experience. Ultimately, acknowledging Painted by Esther’s undeniable influence is a crucial step towards greater equity in the industry.

    What are your thoughts on the Patrick Ta and Painted by Esther situation? How can the beauty industry better credit Black creatives? Share your views in the comments!