When I began my journey as a makeup artist, I thought the job was mainly about applying foundation and creating beautiful looks but as time goes on, I discovered it was more than that. It became connected with people on a personal level and realized that each faces had its own story.
One thing I quickly learned is that people are not always how they seem. Some clients would walk in with confidence so loud, you would think nothing could shake them but once I started doing their makeup, they would quietly ask, “Do I look okay?” or “Please, can you cover this scar?” That’s when I knew that confidence can sometimes be a cover. Everyone has something they’re hiding or dealing with. The strong ones also feel insecure.
As a makeup artist, I’ve worked with all kinds of people. The gentle ones, the demanding ones, the overthinkers, and the easy going. Some people come in with a smile and leave you feeling warm all day. Others come with stress from their personal lives, and you become the unexpected listener. I remember a bride who cried during her makeup session, not because she was sad, but because she was overwhelmed. She had lost her mother a year before and wished she was there on her big day. I paused and just held her hand. That moment taught me that sometimes, people just need someone to be present.
Another thing I learned is patience. You can plan a session perfectly, but a client might still come late, change their mind last minute, or ask for something unrealistic. I had a client once who brought a photo of a celebrity and said, “Make me look like this.” I smiled and explained the difference between face shapes, skin tones, and filters. Makeup it’s not about making people look alike but helping them feel like the best version of themselves.
Trust is also a bigger part of this job. People trust me with their faces, sometimes even their emotions. I’ve had clients talk to me about their relationships, struggles, and even plans for the future all while I’m drawing their brows. It's a reminder that people just want to be seen, not just physically, but emotionally.
I’ve also seen competition in this field. Some people see you growing and want to pull you down. Others cheer for you and lift you up. I’ve learned to focus on my journey, stay kind, and keep learning. People can be both inspiring and disappointing, but I try to focus on the ones who bring light.
My job has taught me to look beyond the surface. Behind every face is a story. Behind every client is a person with battles you may never see. And sometimes, a little kindness, a compliment, or a listening ear can do more than any makeup product.
So yes, being a makeup artist has taught me so much about colors and brushes, but even more about humans. We’re all just trying to feel seen, loved, and accepted. And if I can play a small part in helping someone feel beautiful inside and out then my job is more than just work. It’s purpose.
This is my response to this week's episode of #hiveghana community prompt #week104
