The captivating allure of the “OG Beauty Gurus” transcended mere entertainment, resonating deeply with countless young women worldwide and fundamentally reshaping the landscape of beauty culture. These visionary pioneers not only blazed trails but also laid the very foundation upon which today’s expansive beauty influencer community stands. Their indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication to their craft are immortalized in the annals of beauty history, as they meticulously crafted immersive 15–30-minute YouTube videos, serving as veritable masterclasses in makeup artistry and skincare. While some of these trailblazing creators have ascended to iconic status within the beauty realm, gracing magazine covers and collaborating with prestigious brands, others have gracefully transitioned into different avenues or gradually receded from the limelight. The years spanning from 2010 to 2017 mark a golden era in beauty, where these influencers held sway over platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter, dictating trends and captivating audiences with their unparalleled charisma and expertise. However, as the digital landscape continues to evolve, we now find ourselves amid a seismic shift, with many creators cultivating massive followings on platforms like TikTok. This platform’s bite-sized video format not only streamlines content creation but also fosters a more prolific release of diverse beauty content, enabling creators to connect with audiences in innovative ways. As we peel back the layers of the captivating narratives woven by these OG beauty influencers, we uncover a tapestry of resilience, innovation, and unwavering passion, each thread contributing to the vibrant mosaic that is the ever-evolving beauty industry.
Bethany Mota emerged as a beloved figure among the younger tween and teenage demographic, enchanting audiences with her relatable content. From effortless makeup tutorials to engaging “get ready with me” videos for school, she seamlessly blended fashion advice with personal anecdotes, resonating deeply with her followers. Bethany’s influence extended beyond the digital realm, securing numerous brand partnerships, including a coveted clothing line with Aeropostale. While she continues to create content, Bethany has diversified her portfolio, venturing into the world of demi-fine jewelry design. This expansion showcases her entrepreneurial spirit and creative prowess, further solidifying her status as a multifaceted influencer and entrepreneur.
James Charles remains a prominent figure in the ever-evolving beauty landscape, having embarked on his makeup journey and career while still in high school. Setting himself apart with his youthful vigor and unapologetic embrace of makeup as a male, he quickly garnered attention for his unique perspective on beauty. Despite facing his fair share of controversies and weathering backlash throughout his career, James has persevered, forging friendships with celebrities, and collaborating with them on various projects. Today, he continues to captivate audiences with his makeup content while also venturing into the realm of music, recently unveiling his debut single. James Charles exemplifies resilience and creativity, cementing his status as a multifaceted influencer and artist.
NikkieTutorials, a Dutch makeup artist, began her journey into the beauty world at a young age, sharing her expertise through makeup tutorials on YouTube. Her breakout moment arrived in 2015 with the viral sensation “The Power of Makeup,” underscoring makeup’s transformative potential. A stalwart in the beauty community, Nikkie’s influence extends to collaborations with renowned brands and the launch of her cosmetics line. Despite her success, she remains dedicated to her YouTube channel, continuing to inspire and empower her audience with her passion for beauty. NikkieTutorials continues to shine as a beacon of creativity and innovation in the makeup industry.
Tati Westbrook, renowned as Tati on YouTube, is a leading beauty influencer and entrepreneur. Her YouTube channel features beauty tutorials, product reviews, and lifestyle content, garnering widespread acclaim for her honest and comprehensive product assessments. In 2018, Tati ventured into the supplement industry with her brand, Halo Beauty, emphasizing inner beauty enhancement through its range of supplements. Despite occasional controversies, including public disputes with fellow influencers and brands, Tati maintains a strong presence on YouTube and social media platforms, resonating with her dedicated audience through her authenticity and expertise in the beauty realm.
Manny MUA has ascended to fame as a notable makeup artist, beauty influencer, and entrepreneurial force. Through his YouTube channel and social media platforms, he enthralls viewers with makeup tutorials, product assessments, and glimpses into his lifestyle, earning widespread admiration for his creativity and connection with his audience. Manny champions LGBTQ+ representation in the beauty industry, using his platform to advocate for inclusivity and diversity. Manny has cultivated partnerships with diverse beauty brands, curating makeup collections under his Lunar Beauty brand. These collaborations reflect his bold and innovative style, resonating deeply with his varied fanbase.
Rclbeauty101, whose real name is Rachel Levin, is a popular YouTuber known for her beauty and lifestyle content. She gained significant popularity for her creative DIY videos, makeup tutorials, and comedic sketches. Rachel started her YouTube channel in 2010 and quickly amassed a large following, reaching millions of subscribers. Over the years, she expanded her content to include challenges, product reviews, and vlogs, furthering her presence in the online beauty community. Rachel has collaborated with various brands and fellow YouTubers, contributing to her recognition and influence in the digital space.
The era of the “OG Beauty Gurus” marked a transformative period in the beauty industry, captivating audiences with their immersive YouTube videos and shaping the landscape of beauty culture. While some of these influencers have risen to prominence and continue to thrive in the beauty space, others have faded from the limelight. Spanning from approximately 2010 to 2017, these creators dominated platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter, dictating trends and influencing millions. Today, we witness a shift towards platforms like TikTok, where creators amass large followings with shorter, more accessible content. Despite the evolution of platforms and content formats, the legacy of the OG Beauty Gurus endures, leaving an indelible mark on the ever-changing beauty landscape. This legacy serves as a reminder of their impact and the enduring influence they’ve had on subsequent generations of beauty influencers and content creators alike.
