Make up. To a select few, it is more than skin deep. It is successfully bringing a blank canvas to life using colours, tones and products. To the artists who deal in makeup, it is art. Michelle Njoroge is one of those artists that do just this. She’s a 20 year old who runs her own company, Lush Beauty by Michelle.
Her talent isn’t something she recently discovered, despite her doing it for just three years. “From an early childhood, I had a great passion for beauty and grooming. I went to high school in Rusinga, Nairobi, where the school allowed us to showcase our talents as well as introduce events such as Business day to channel our entrepreneurial minds.” This education opened doors for her that led her to set up a beauty stand at her school. It encouraged her to pursue her passion.
“I would charge friends 20 shillings each to shape their eyebrows during break or lunchtime. They would then request me to do their eyebrows and make up on them during key events such as birthdays, parties, graduations etc.” After receiving good reviews, she started her business immediately after high school in 2011.
Michelle tells us more about her journey as an artist and the growth of business.
The little bird: When did you know that being a makeup artist is what you wanted to do?
Michelle Njoroge: After graduating high school, I had a long break while waiting to join University in 2011. I therefore started doing make up for various functions and events. I knew for a fact that it was my passion and what I wanted to pursue as my career. Ever since, I have never looked back.
Tlb: Did you receive support regarding your decision?
MN: Yes. My parents, family and friends had been very supportive. You could call them my ultimate cheerleaders.
Tlb: Where do you find your inspiration?
MN: I draw inspiration from various quarters such as nature, childhood memories, admired characters, and themes as well as other successful makeup artists locally and internationally.
Tlb: Are makeup artists taken seriously? In your opinion
MN: Slowly but surely, with the growing fashion, beauty and show biz industry, Kenyans are becoming more particular about their image. In my opinion makeup artists are becoming more appreciated and recognized in the market place. However, most people still don’t view it as an actual career path.
Tlb: What was your favorite shoot or gig?
MN: My favorite gig was my first Safaricom Live tour in Nakuru in 2012 and shoot would have to be Kanji’s Album cover. Working with Kanji, his team and Mutua Matheka was awesome. They were all very friendly, down to earth and welcoming.
Tlb: Where has your work been featured?
MN: Sally Karago look book, Mcensal fashion show, Tilo Lani, Sara Karay fashion Show, Kanji’s album cover, Safaricom Live (Nakuru, Nairobi, Meru, Eldoret, Machakos), Naivasha Fashion Weekend, Kitenge Festival, Fashion High Tea, Strut it Africa fashion show, Nairobi Fashion Market, Nairobi Fashion Weekend, Music Videos (Dendai by P-unit & Geti kali by Sainapei Tande), Weddings (Over 15 weddings), and other events (20+).
Tlb: Have you ever done a man’s makeup? If yes, what was that like?
MN: Yes. It was a bit odd for a man to have brushes/powder on their faces; however they appreciated the service after seeing outcome.
Tlb: Are there difficult skin types to work on?
MN: Yes, sensitive skin; skin that is prone to irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis, acne, eczema, etc.
Tlb: How do you decide on a makeup for the various skin types?
MN: It all depends on the skin type, color, sensitivity, reaction to the product hence key to match the same to skin type e.g. oily, dry and combination. It is advisable to establish your skin type and use make up products that suite your skin type and skin tone.
Note: Stick to one product and go for quality products only.
Tlb: How difficult was it setting up your company?
MN: It was not as difficult as I had initially imagined, this was because I had full support and backing from my parents, family and friends.
Tlb: Where do you see your company five years from now?
MN: A fully fledged make up centre/offices/well trained team/revamped website/blog sites/offer image consulting services, special effects make up, grooming and etiquette.
Tlb: Have you experienced any challenges?
MN: Yes; pricing on services/products, payments of services with clients wanting more for less. There is also the perception that make up artistry is not a “REAL” career line one should pursue. However, with the fast growing, beauty, fashion and show business industry in Kenya, the career is becoming more recognized, respected and appreciated.
Tlb: How do you deal with someone with skin acne?
MN: More care should be taken as well as attention to product type so as to be friendly to the condition and avoid antagonizing the skin. If skin is septic, avoid make up until the wounds are completely dry. To be on the safer side opt for fragrance and oil free products. These are typically the most irritating to the skin. Also look for products that are labeled hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic and nonacnegenic.
Tlb: Do you follow makeup trends?
MN: Yes, most certainly to keep up with the clients requirements in line with current trends as well as keep myself abreast with the latest in this line.
Tlb: How old or young should a woman be before she applies makeup for the first time?
MN: At least 16, though 18 is more commendable.
Tlb: Any beauty tips or advice for a future makeup artist?
MN:
1. Own a makeup kit with basics such as mascara eye shadow palette, natural blush, foundation pallet, brushes, brush cleaner, nude face powder and cream eyeliner in black.
2. Practice! Practice! Practice!
3. Advertise and market yourself using social media avenues, word of mouth, and business cards.
4. Have hands on experience working for a cosmetics store or makeup artist apprentice.
5. Look the part, be creative, keep up with the trends, enhance your skills, and use high quality products for excellent results.
6. Be confident in what you do and why you do it.
LBK 