Jesse Ramirez, the MUA who turned his life around
a conversation with the celebrity makeup artist
Jesse Ramirez, a celebrated celebrity makeup artist, has turned his life around by pursuing his passion for makeup. Before joining the industry, Jesse studied business management at the University of the Pacific. However, he found solace in the world of makeup when his family members would often help him with his makeup and beauty experiments. From Tax Agent to Makeup Artist
Jesse’s journey as a makeup artist began when he stumbled upon a Craigslist ad for a temporary position as a set assistant for a fashion show. In 2017, he applied for the job and landed the role. The experience not only changed his life but also gave him the opportunity to work with top brands like Topicals, Marc Jacobs, and Sephora.
- Topicals
- Marc Jacobs
- Sephora
Jesse’s rise to fame in the makeup industry was not without its challenges. He faced numerous rejections and setbacks, but he persevered and continued to work on his craft. His big break came when he started working with T. Cooper, a renowned makeup artist who became a mentor to him. T. Cooper, a key figure in Jesse’s journey
T. Cooper is a Jamaican girl from The Bronx who initially became a makeup artist by accident while working as a seamstress on set. Her leadership skills and dedication to promoting diversity in the industry have been instrumental in Jesse’s success.
- Leadership skills
- Diversity in the industry
Jesse’s work spans various campaigns, including those for Topicals, Marc Jacobs, and Sephora. He has also worked with several notable celebrities, such as Brandee Younger, Nichelle Lewis, and Lauren Von Der Pool.
- Brandee Younger
- Nichelle Lewis
- Lauren Von Der Pool
Despite the challenges he has faced, Jesse remains optimistic about his future in the makeup industry. He attributes his success to his hard work and dedication to his craft. Defining Beauty
Jesse defines beauty as the ability to see oneself and others in a positive light. He believes that makeup can either enhance or detract from one’s appearance, and that true beauty comes from within.
“I see beauty in the way people perceive themselves and others. Makeup can either contribute to the canvas or ruin it. If you feel beautiful, you are beautiful.”
Jesse also prioritizes self-care, recognizing the importance of taking time off to recharge and refocus. Self-Care and Prioritizing Time
Jesse emphasizes the importance of self-care, stating that taking time off to focus on his own well-being is essential for his mental and physical health.
“I love prioritizing myself now. It was a journey to find this balance. Once I start to feel overwhelmed, I take a few days off to regroup and focus on things I enjoy doing: playing tennis, rearranging my apartment, hiking at the park, drawing, etc.”
Jesse’s kit is stocked with various essential products, including the Tarte Cosmetics Shape Tape Blur Concealer Stick, Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre Moisturizer, and rectangle foam wedges.
- Tarte Cosmetics Shape Tape Blur Concealer Stick
- Emburyolisse Lait-Creme Concentre Moisturizer
- Rectangle foam wedges
Jesse’s favorite makeup looks to create include anything editorial with edge and grit. He is drawn to the artistry and creativity involved in high-fashion and SFX makeup. Favorite Makeup Looks
Jesse’s favorite makeup looks to create include anything editorial with edge and grit.
“I love anything editorial with edge and grit. Editorial artistry is an interpretation that comes from within! Commercial beauty is great, but I’m a sucker for anything outside the box: body painting, high fashion, SFX, and more.”
Jesse also believes that the “Instagram” heavy application, harshly carved brows, and cut creases are makeup trends that should be left in the past. Makesup Trends
Jesse believes that the “Instagram” heavy application, harshly carved brows, and cut creases are makeup trends that should be left in the past.
“There’s a place for all facets of makeup, however, the ‘Instagram’ heavy application, harshly carved brows, and cut creases should really go out of style! Less is more.”
Finally, Jesse offers words of advice to aspiring makeup artists, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and following one’s passion. Advice for Aspiring MUAs
Jesse advises aspiring makeup artists to focus on their passion and not get discouraged by rejections. He also emphasizes the importance of taking time to learn and grow.
“Don’t focus so much on the title and accolades, experiences will come and go! The universe will conspire to make anything possible if you want it bad enough! Lastly, if you don’t know where to begin, remember, I started on Craigslist, browsing creative gigs. A total accident or was it? The universe speaks, pay close attention.
