Lately, I’ve been feeling inspired to upgrade my makeup game. Between back-to-back video calls and one too many late nights (hello, under-eye circles), I need a major refresh, and I often look to Instagram for a creative boost. As a Puerto Rican, Jamaican-Chinese woman, I’ve also been making an extra effort to follow BIPOC makeup artists and celebrate their talents — especially Black artists who continue to be fierce advocates for inclusion in the beauty world. If you could use some inspiration, too, here are some of my favorite Black makeup artists to follow ASAP:
- Alana Wright
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Alana Wright discovered her passion for makeup while growing up in the Detroit theater scene, and like many of us, by exploring her mother’s makeup drawer. Alana is an expert at perfecting skin, creating beautiful looks for diverse skin tones, and she has worked with some of my all-time favorite creatives including Cleo Wade, Elaine Welteroth, and Aurora James. Check out Alana’s recent work on Instagram, including her contribution to this stunning initiative called MUSE — an effort to Magnify, Uplift, Support, and Empower Black voices in beauty.
- Nyma Tang
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Nyma Tang’s family left South Sudan and immigrated to the U.S. when she was just three years old. Growing up, she recalls how she rarely saw herself represented in beauty and fashion. Nyma discovered makeup in college, and after experiencing the lack of inclusivity within the beauty world, decided to start a YouTube channel with recommendations for fellow women of color. Her Instagram is *amazing* and you’ll be inspired by her mini-tutorials — talk about major #skingoals.
- Danessa Myricks
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Pro makeup artist, photographer, and entrepreneur Danessa Myricks is nothing short of amazing. From glossy ombré lips to this shimmery neon look of my dreams, Danessa knows how to create out-of-this-world looks, and honestly brightens my Instagram feed on the daily. At the moment, I can’t get enough of this multi-dimensional pink eyeshadow inspired by Valentine’s Day. Seriously, do yourself a favor and follow Danessa ASAP.
- Michael Anthony
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If you’ve seen Ariana Grande’s iconic graphic eyeliner in the “Rain On Me” video, you’ve seen the work of Michael Anthony. With a client roster including Ayesha Curry, Nicole Scherzinger, Katy Perry, Doja Cat, and more, Michael Anthony is one of the most in-demand artists in the beauty industry. Check out his work on Instagram and marvel at the glitz and glam!
- Sheika Daley
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I’m obsessed with Sheika Daley’s work, especially this gorgeous look she created for Zendaya. (Psst: they met when Zendaya was only fifteen years old, and have been working together ever since). This self-taught artist got her start working as a beauty consultant during college, and now works with clients like Nicki Minaj, Kelly Rowland, Ciara, and the legendary Serena Williams. Apart from working with these leading ladies, Sheika is also the founder of the beauty brand Elora Lane.
- Sir John
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If you need some epic beauty inspo, look no further than Sir John, who’s widely known for his work with Queen Bey (this piece outlines his entire process for her iconic Coachella looks from 2018!). Sir John is a visionary who grew up studying art and was mentored by the celebrated makeup artist Pat McGrath. Today, he’s a global artist and activist who regularly works with celebrities like Chrissy Teigen, Joan Smalls, and even Barbie.
These wildly talented makeup artists inspire me to expand my horizons beyond my typical foundation, eyeliner, and mascara combo. They’re not only amazing, but they’re working to make the beauty industry more inclusive for all, from the looks they create to sparking crucial conversations about diversity and inclusion in beauty. Give them a follow on Instagram, and remember, the beauty world is better when we’re all represented.