NikkieTutorials, Michelle Phan, Lilly Ghalichi, PatrickStarrr, Bretman Rock, Amra Olević. Do these names sound familiar? If you’re a makeup geek, then of course! These are famous makeup artists that are well known in the makeup world.

Why Wear Makeup?

Some people like makeup because they find their inner artistic selves within it. Sophomore Nicole Soriano said, “It’s a bit of an artistic vent for me, and when I do wear it, I have fun with it.”

Another sophomore Nestor Zuniga added, “Makeup is flamboyant! In a way, it’s art. There’s no wrong in it if you enjoy your creativity and confide in yourself.”

No Thank You

    Not everyone, however, is so positive about makeup. Famous musical artist Alicia Keys decided to not wear makeup anymore as part of a journey towards self-empowerment.

She has many supporters. “It is a really strong decision since she’s showing the world her true self, and it’s also daring because she’s not afraid of it,” said junior Lucia Martinez.

“I don’t like makeup,” said sophomore Paul Mitchell. “You’re not able to see the girl’s true facial features. It’s almost as if she’s wearing a mask.”

Junior Jorge Cruz said that it takes away from the girl’s attractiveness and that it’s a waste of time.

Not everyone is so extreme in their beliefs. For example, sophomore Nathaliy DeLeon said, “It is something I can live without, but I’ll never stop wearing makeup because it’ll just make my life duller.”

Junior Karina Castillo adds that she only wears makeup for special occasions such as a cheerleading event, a party, dates, etc..

How It’s Beneficial

Both males and females have similar opinions on the advantages of makeup. Junior Cristian Santos said, “One of the perks for the girls is that if they have insecurities, it helps boost up their self-confidence.” Junior Lorena Martinez said it can help someone mentally, emotionally, and physically.

The Downfall

The disadvantages of using makeup can vary. Sophomore Leslie Smith said, “I know us guys hate it when it gets on our clean white T’s whenever we hug a girl with makeup. It takes about 2-3 washes to get makeup off my shirts.” Freshman Stephanie Moreno said that it can cause acne in your skin depending on the products that you wear.

Our Favorite!

There are many makeup brands in the world, and surprisingly Tarte cosmetics was the #1 makeup brand mentioned by the 17 people interviewed. Sophomore Sophia Hervis said Tarte is good quality and long-lasting makeup for affordable prices.

Miami High’s MUAs

Some girls here in Miami High make money as makeup artists, charging anywhere between $20 to $45 for a full-face makeover.

Senior Leonor Martinez began doing makeup in the summer of 2015 on herself. When people began recognizing her work, she began to put prices on her talent.

“What I love about doing this is seeing people satisfied when I finish their makeup,” said Leonor. “Every time I do someone else’s makeup or mine, I feel so much joy I’m so focused that no one or nothing can distract me.”

Senior Daniushka Dominguez began doing makeup as a job a year ago. She began practicing on herself, and with time, she got better. She feels as if her business is thriving since she’s getting recognized by people that she does not know.

“To all my girls in the makeup industry, I wish them nothing but the best, and may we all grow well recognized and wealthy too,” she said.

Sophomore Alondra Gaitan began doing makeup 3 and a half years ago and did not make any profit out of it until February 2016. She knew her business was exceeding her expectations when she started getting clients outside of Miami, such as New Yorkers down in Miami on vacation.

“I don’t do this only as a job, but simply because I enjoy showing my clients that they’re a beautiful canvas, and I’m just here to enhance their features with art,” said sophomore Alondra Gaitan.