first black makeup artist

The first Black makeup artist officially recognized in history is Steve Cunningham. Beginning his influential career in the 1960s, Cunningham broke significant barriers in the beauty industry, working with major fashion magazines and high-profile celebrities of the time. His pioneering work not only elevated the standards of makeup artistry but also paved the way for greater diversity and representation within the makeup and beauty fields, especially for women of color. Cunningham's enduring contributions continue to hold a powerful influence, shaping how Black beauty is honored and celebrated in the industry today.

In the 1960s and 1970s, the landscape of makeup brands specifically catering to Black women was limited. Mainstream beauty companies rarely developed products designed for darker skin tones, leaving many Black women underserved. There were a few pioneering brands that emerged during this period, such as Fashion Fair, founded in 1973 by Eunice W. Johnson, which became one of the first major makeup lines to specifically target women of color. However, choices remained scarce, and many Black women had to adapt products meant for lighter skin or rely on DIY solutions. This scarcity highlighted the systemic lack of representation and inclusivity in the beauty industry at the time, underscoring the importance of brands today that celebrate and cater to the unique skincare and makeup needs of women of color.