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Tag: Makeup Artist

  • 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!

  • 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!

  • 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!

  • Pat McGrath’s Top Glam Tips & Beauty Secrets

    Ever wondered how to achieve that flawless, runway-ready look? We’re getting the inside scoop straight from the queen of cosmetics herself, the legendary Pat McGrath! Known for her groundbreaking work and innovative beauty brand, PAT McGRATH LABS, McGrath is sharing her most coveted glam tips, debunking common makeup myths, and giving us a peek into her creative process.

    Lessons Learned from Mom

    McGrath’s journey into the world of makeup began not in a classroom, but at her mother’s kitchen table. Her earliest beauty lesson came from watching her mother mix custom shades because the perfect colors for their skin simply didn’t exist back then. This foundational experience taught McGrath a crucial lesson: makeup isn’t about hiding, it’s about celebrating who you are.

    Despite attending art school, McGrath never formally studied makeup. Instead, she honed her skills through sheer passion and experimentation. This hands-on, obsessive approach is a hallmark of her career, allowing her to transform models into living art and develop entire makeup collections that push creative boundaries.

    The Magic of Backstage Access

    Now, as the founder of PAT McGRATH LABS and the first-ever Cosmetics Creative Director for La Beauté Louis Vuitton, McGrath’s mission is to democratize her backstage magic. She views makeup as a form of ‘fetish,’ emphasizing the transformative power it holds, not just physically but emotionally. It’s about enhancing natural beauty and making everyone feel like the best version of themselves.

    McGrath’s Current Obsessions

    When asked about her current favorite products, McGrath raves about the new Skin Fetish: Sublime Perfection Longwear Blurring Setting Spray. She highlights its ability to create a soft-focus, non-powdery finish that lasts an incredible 16 hours. For deeper skin tones, she loves the Divine Blush in Paradise Venus and Electric Bloom for a radiant, lit-from-within glow.

    Her go-to makeup looks often involve creating ‘spa skin’ – that luminous, glass-like finish that looks utterly divine. She loves pairing this with a bold lip, using shades like Dramatique Mega Lip Pencil in Garnet Glow or Flesh 3. McGrath also enjoys experimenting with unexpected color stories, like using Divine Cream Blush: Legendary Glow Color Balm in Forbidden Fleur on deep skin for an extraordinary vibrancy.

    Her Top Makeup Tip: Mix Textures!

    What’s the secret to dimension and artistry on the face? McGrath’s top tip is to ‘mix your textures.’ She advises using matte finishes in some areas and high-shine, glowy finishes in others. For example, applying Skin Fetish: Divine Glow Highlighter in Bronze Mirage on the high points of the face while using a touch of matte powder through the T-zone creates beautiful ‘geography.’

    And her non-negotiable final step? ‘Always—ALWAYS—set with spray,’ she insists. Whether using the Skin Fetish: Glass 001 Legendary Glow Setting Spray or the new Sublime Perfection Longwear Blurring Setting Spray, this step ensures everything melds seamlessly into the skin for a natural, long-lasting finish.

    Debunking Makeup Myths

    McGrath is quick to dismiss the idea that certain skin tones can’t wear specific colors or require different makeup rules. ‘Nonsense!’ she exclaims. Her philosophy is that every skin tone can wear every color; it’s all about understanding undertones and using the right formulas. She points to her LiquiLUST: Legendary Wear Lipstick in Elson 4 (a vivid blue-red) and Baby Pink Blurring Powder as examples that look incredible on all skin tones, a lesson learned through years of experimentation.

    The Power of Being Seen

    What truly moves McGrath are the messages she receives from clients who have finally found their perfect shade within her extensive range. She recalls a model telling her she’d never had a makeup artist achieve a perfect match on the first try until working with her. This dedication to inclusivity is why PAT McGRATH LABS offers 36 shades of concealer and foundation, along with new Amber and Peach Under-Eye Blurring Powders. ‘Everyone deserves to be seen and matched perfectly!’

    Ultimately, McGrath’s approach to makeup is about genuine connection. She starts by truly seeing individuals, aiming to enhance their unique magnificence rather than change them. Whether it’s finding the perfect complexion match or highlighting a feature that makes them feel like a goddess, her goal is simple: to help everyone feel like the absolute best version of themselves.

    What’s your favorite Pat McGrath Labs product or makeup tip? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • MeMa Creations: Wedding Makeup for Brides of Color

    In the latest installment of TheGrio’s “Wedding Our Way” series, we meet MeMa Creations, a Brooklyn-based makeup artist who has become a go-to for brides seeking that perfect, all-day wedding glam. Melisa, as she’s known personally, has earned a reputation for making brides feel like the stars of their own fairy tales, especially for brides of color.

    Enhancing Natural Beauty for the Big Day

    Melisa shared her passion for her craft, telling TheGrio, “It feels amazing to make women feel like the best version of themselves.” She emphasizes her ability to listen to her brides, assess their desires, and bring their envisioned look to life. Her signature style focuses on creating a flawless canvas with supremely smooth skin, naturally blended colors, and dimension that enhances rather than masks, making her brides look and feel like supermodels.

    Melisa’s journey into makeup artistry began in her teenage years when she struggled with acne. Discovering makeup as a way to achieve flawless skin, she fell in love with the art of transformation. Over her twelve years as a professional makeup artist, she has developed a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of what makes wedding makeup truly special and long-lasting.

    Top Tips for Choosing Your Wedding MUA

    Melisa offers invaluable advice for brides-to-be navigating the process of selecting a makeup artist for their big day:

    • **Book Early:** “As soon as you pick your wedding dress, you should be booking your makeup artist or as soon you book your venue,” Melisa advises. Securing your glam team early is crucial, especially for high-demand artists.
    • **Check Portfolios for Representation:** “Look at the makeup artist’s portfolio,” Melisa stresses. “See if you see any brides that resemble you.” She emphasizes that not all artists are adept at color matching, particularly for deeper skin tones, so it’s vital to ensure their work reflects diversity.
    • **Schedule a Bridal Trial:** While it might seem like an extra step, a trial run is essential. “A bridal trial is very important because sometimes people will come with a Pinterest inspiration makeup board… You may do the trial and you’ll be like, ‘Oh, this looks nice, but not exactly what I had in mind for my wedding day,’” Melisa explains. It allows for adjustments and ensures the artist can work efficiently on the wedding day.
    • **Speak Up About Your Preferences:** Don’t hesitate to communicate your likes and dislikes. “You have to be transparent,” Melisa urges. “You have to speak your mind.” It’s important to voice concerns, whether about hair or makeup, to ensure you feel confident and beautiful on your wedding day.
    • **View Makeup as an Investment:** “Next to your dress, the next thing is your hair and your makeup,” Melisa notes. “If all those threes are not aligned, the look falls flat.” Investing in quality makeup and an artist who understands longevity and application is key to a flawless, all-day look.

    A Dream Career Built with Intention

    Melisa finds immense joy in her work, seeing it as more than just a job but a calling. Her entrepreneurial journey as a Black woman in the wedding industry has provided financial empowerment and a deep sense of purpose. “I’m grateful,” she says. “It feels good to be chosen and to be able to give people the vision that they dreamt of.” She cherishes the relationships she builds with her brides, often staying connected beyond the wedding day.

    Having been a bride herself, Melisa understands the importance of feeling beautiful and confident. She approaches each wedding with enthusiasm, viewing it as an opportunity to create something new and contribute to someone’s fairy tale. Her dedication to her craft and her clients makes MeMa Creations a truly beloved choice for wedding makeup.

    What are your essential tips for choosing a wedding makeup artist? Share your advice in the comments below!

  • Sir John’s Top Beauty Tips

    Sir John, the celebrated makeup artist behind the iconic looks of Beyoncé, Zendaya, and Serena Williams, shares his passion for beauty, which began with his mother. His earliest memory of makeup’s transformative power was watching his mother apply mascara, realizing how it could “put a pep in her step” and change the environment. This early inspiration fueled his move to NYC at 16 to pursue makeup artistry seriously.

    From MAC Cosmetics to High Fashion

    After honing his skills at MAC Cosmetics (and a brief stint where he was fired for lateness), Sir John explored various avenues, including visual design for Barneys and Bergdorf Goodman, menswear merchandising for Gucci, and even serving as a key makeup artist for a club in Queens. His career took a significant turn after attending a Pat McGrath show, which led to meeting McGrath herself and embarking on fashion month shows with Dolce & Gabbana and Prada in 2006.

    His work with Charlotte Tilbury further propelled his career, leading to collaborations with global superstars like Beyoncé and Julianne Moore. Beyond technical skill, Sir John emphasizes the impact makeup artists can have on how people feel, stating, “My voice is more powerful than anything I can do with my hands.” He cherishes the “vibrational feeling or alignment” he hopes people experience when they meet him.

    Favorite Products and Techniques

    Currently, Sir John is loving Danessa Myricks Beauty’s Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder for its ability to create a gorgeous complexion. He also praises Ami Colé’s universally flattering toffee brown lip oil and Uoma Beauty’s pigmented concealers and lipsticks. His favorite “beat” is editorial, particularly the refined, cabaret-inspired glam that looks flawless under the spotlight. He emphasizes the importance of mastering flawless skin, a technique he’s helped bring to the forefront of the beauty community.

    His top makeup tip is to move away from overly heavy lashes, advocating for more purposeful, evolved versions of eye makeup that offer sophistication and harmony with one’s overall style. Crucially, he stresses the importance of skin prep, recommending the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro’s Air Shot Mode for creating non-damaging passageways to improve pores and the Booster Mode to enhance skincare product absorption and circulation for a flawless makeup application.

    Debunking Beauty Myths and Uplifting Clients

    Sir John wants to debunk the myth of blindly following trends or celebrity looks. In the current “dopamine glam” era, he believes beauty choices should be about personal feeling and self-expression – “shake what your mama gave you!” He uplifts his clients by bringing positive energy and ensuring he impacts the space he enters, whether it’s a home or a dressing room. This commitment to transmuting heavy energy and bringing joy to people is a cornerstone of his professional ethos.

    What are your favorite beauty tips from Sir John? Do you agree about evolving lash styles? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Danessa Myricks x Neutrogena Collaboration

    Get ready for a beauty collaboration that feels like a full-circle moment! Makeup artist and entrepreneur Danessa Myricks is joining forces with Neutrogena for a new collection that celebrates skin-first beauty. This exciting partnership brings together Myricks’ renowned artistry with Neutrogena’s trusted, science-backed skincare.

    A Full-Circle Moment for Myricks

    For Danessa Myricks, this collaboration holds deep personal significance. As a teenager, she relied on Neutrogena products to manage acne, and she even built her very first makeup kit using items purchased from her local CVS. Decades later, she continues to trust the brand’s efficacy and accessibility. “What I love about this collaboration is that we’re bringing together Danessa’s artistry and Neutrogena’s dermatologist-backed skin care with the accessibility we offer via our stores and online,” said Michelle LeBlanc, VP of Merchandising for Beauty at CVS Health. “By coming together, we are amplifying our strengths and creating a new and exciting experience for our customers.”

    Starting August 31, consumers can shop three limited-edition “Get Glam Ready” kits exclusively at CVS Pharmacy and online at CVS.com. These kits are designed to provide a complete routine for achieving a flawless makeup look, emphasizing the importance of skin preparation.

    Inclusive and Accessible Beauty

    The product lineup reflects both Neutrogena and Myricks’ shared vision of inclusivity and accessibility in the beauty industry. The kits feature: Makeup Remover Wipes ($6.99): Alcohol-free, ultra-soft wipes designed to effectively remove makeup, including waterproof mascara. Hydro Boost Hydro Gel Masks ($9.99 for a 3-pack): Cooling masks infused with hyaluronic acid for deep hydration and skin smoothing. Skin Prep Set ($29.99): A comprehensive kit including wipes, gel masks, Hydro Boost Gel Cream, and a tinted lip oil for a complete hydration and prep routine.

    Danessa Myricks has established herself as a highly inventive and influential figure in modern beauty. A self-taught artist, she founded Danessa Myricks Beauty in 2015, gaining global recognition for its inclusive shade ranges and innovative textures. This partnership with Neutrogena further solidifies her mission to make high-quality beauty tools and techniques accessible to everyone.

    Are you excited to try the new Danessa Myricks x Neutrogena collaboration? Let us know which product you’re most looking forward to in the comments!