In the age of social media, beauty has taken on new dimensions, as influencers, makeup artists, and skincare enthusiasts from around the world share their insights with global audiences. Amid the flood of beauty content online, a few standout individuals consistently inspire and empower others, offering not only expert advice but also a deeper connection to self-care, confidence, and personal expression. Whether through makeup tutorials, skincare routines, or broader lifestyle content, these beauty figures offer more than just product recommendations—they champion individuality, self-love, and empowerment. In this essay, we will explore several inspiring women in the beauty world who are worth following for their unique approaches to beauty, authenticity, and the impact they have on their followers.
1. Lisa Eldridge: Mastering Makeup as an Art Form
Lisa Eldridge is a name synonymous with elegance and artistry in the makeup world. As one of the most respected professional makeup artists in the industry, Eldridge has worked with top celebrities and on countless magazine covers, but what sets her apart is her educational and approachable style. On her YouTube channel, Eldridge shares makeup tutorials that focus on enhancing natural beauty rather than masking it, often featuring timeless and classic looks that transcend trends.
Eldridge’s passion for makeup as an art form is evident in her tutorials, where she breaks down complex techniques into easy-to-follow steps for viewers of all skill levels. Her focus on achieving a flawless base, perfecting skin tone, and subtle contouring has made her a go-to source for those who prefer sophisticated, polished looks.
In addition to her expertise, Eldridge’s calming and thoughtful presence on camera has a therapeutic quality, turning makeup application into a mindful, enjoyable experience. Her dedication to promoting self-expression through makeup, rather than conforming to one-size-fits-all beauty standards, is an essential message in today’s beauty landscape.
2. Jackie Aina: Championing Inclusivity in Beauty
Jackie Aina is a trailblazer in the beauty industry, known for her advocacy for inclusivity and diversity. As an African American woman, Aina has been a vocal critic of the lack of shade range in many makeup brands, particularly for women of color. Through her platform, she has consistently pushed for change, using her influence to demand better representation in beauty products and campaigns.
Aina’s content is not only entertaining but also educational, as she shares her personal experiences and insights on navigating the beauty industry as a Black woman. Her makeup tutorials often focus on techniques that cater to deeper skin tones, and she reviews products with a critical eye, ensuring that her followers are informed about the best options for their complexion.
Beyond makeup, Aina uses her platform to address social issues, empowering her audience to be vocal about their needs and to demand inclusivity in all aspects of beauty. Her unapologetic approach and confidence have made her an inspiring figure for many, particularly women of color who have long been underrepresented in the industry.
3. Huda Kattan: Building a Beauty Empire
Huda Kattan is a beauty mogul who turned her passion for makeup into one of the most successful beauty brands in the world—Huda Beauty. What started as a blog and social media presence has evolved into a global empire, with Kattan’s products now sold in major retailers worldwide. Kattan’s rise to fame is a testament to her relentless drive, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit.
What makes Kattan an inspiring figure is not just her business acumen but also her transparency about the challenges she faced in building her brand. She frequently shares her journey, from dealing with rejection to overcoming self-doubt, providing valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs in any field. Her honesty about the ups and downs of her career makes her relatable to her audience, many of whom look up to her as both a beauty expert and a business role model.
Kattan’s makeup tutorials are characterized by bold, glamorous looks, often featuring dramatic eyes and flawless skin. She encourages her followers to have fun with makeup, experimenting with colors and techniques to express themselves. Her message is clear: beauty is about creativity and confidence, and there are no rules when it comes to expressing yourself.
4. Rihanna: Redefining Beauty Standards with Fenty
Rihanna, a global music icon, has also made her mark on the beauty world with the launch of her brand, Fenty Beauty. What set Fenty apart from its competitors was its groundbreaking foundation range, which included 40 shades from the start, catering to a wide array of skin tones. Rihanna’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity reshaped the beauty industry, pushing other brands to expand their shade ranges and reconsider how they approach makeup for all skin types.
Rihanna’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that beauty is for everyone, and her products reflect that ethos. She has made makeup accessible to women of all colors and backgrounds, inspiring them to embrace their uniqueness. Fenty Beauty’s success has demonstrated that inclusivity is not just a trend—it is a necessary shift in the industry.
Beyond her product line, Rihanna herself is an embodiment of confidence and self-expression. Whether she’s walking the red carpet or sharing a casual look on Instagram, she exudes authenticity and boldness. Her influence goes beyond makeup—she empowers her fans to break free from traditional beauty standards and embrace their individuality.
5. Desi Perkins: A Beauty and Lifestyle Inspiration
Desi Perkins is a beauty influencer who has captured the hearts of millions with her down-to-earth personality and impressive makeup skills. What began as a YouTube channel featuring makeup tutorials has evolved into a multi-faceted platform where Perkins shares not only beauty tips but also insights into her personal life, including her journey through motherhood and fitness.
Perkins’ beauty content is known for its versatility—she can create everything from natural, glowing looks to bold, editorial-style makeup. Her tutorials are easy to follow, making them accessible to viewers of all skill levels. What makes her especially inspiring is her openness about her struggles with self-esteem, fertility, and the pressures of social media. By sharing these vulnerable moments, Perkins shows her audience that even beauty influencers are human, with insecurities and challenges like everyone else.
Perkins’ transparency has built a strong connection with her followers, many of whom find comfort in her authenticity. She inspires women to embrace both their physical beauty and their inner strength, creating a community that celebrates self-love and resilience.
