makeup artist covid-19

My Experience As a Make-Up Artist During Covid-19 + Transitioning to Virtual Services.

Written by Pepper.B 

To be completely honest I’ve had writers block for the past 4 weeks the only thing on my mind has been how to keep to my immune system strong during this time. We have all been taking different precautions because of the corona virus/covid-19 hints my post. Being completely transparent I have had no desire to write about make-up post or do my make-up when there are so many other things going on right now. Beauty is my passion but is also my livelihood. After being in quarantine for the past 39 days if counting correctly I’ve just been left with my thoughts. As a Make-Up Artist in NY/NJ area I promptly lost almost 97% of my appointments due to the lock down. Which means my business has basically depleted just like that. This typically includes prebooked appointments, day of services and loyal clientele who fly from out of state or jobs that I am traveling to. This is very scary universally considering we have no clue on what the next weeks look like. In the creative cosmetic industry, when you are self-employed if you don’t work you are not guaranteed income, unfortunately. As a makeup artist we are typically required to touch the face and be at a very close range with clients. Breaking the specific rules, you are still taking a big risk. Events are limited and we are on lock down so makeup isn’t an essential. After signing several petitions that will potentially open opportunity for make-up artists & hairstylists it gets exhausting, especially when it hits this closely to home.

Covid-19 is no joke I live 15 minutes from manhattan and haven’t traveled in to the city for 6 weeks which is very rare for me. I am always on the go, sometimes i am commuting in to the city at least two times a day. I am a person who doesn’t live in fear however, it is uncomfortable these days doing something as little as going grocery shopping. Staying home will never be underrated when you're well being is on the line.

These times have forced me to be a little more innovative. I appreciate beauty and when my hands aren’t busy I feel incomplete. I am typically the go-to person when comes to clients and friends, when it’s time to purchase or do a make-up looks. I do facetime time calls for tutorials or shopping trips. Prior to covid-19 I also offered face-to-face personal shopping as a system. Now I have converted this service to an affordable price. I am now offering virtual services. My clients and friends who have no clue what to do with their skincare routines at home have brought me out of hiding. If you are interested in doing a one-on-one service let's support each other at the same time. This service allows you pick your own time. I offer multiple video platforms to keep this easy for you. Thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey i express the upmost gratitude for you.