Makeup artist Jeah Lugo set out on a life-altering quest to find his own style and develop an original sense of self. Lugo mastered the complex world of cosmetics by tirelessly experimenting and dedicating himself to learning what works best for him and his clients. His doggedness and commitment have paid off, and a genuine artist has emerged, one whose style and persona exude a compelling genuineness. Inspiring makeup artist Jeah Lugo, who is redefining beauty on his own terms, shares his story with us.

As Most Journeys Are, the Beginning is Paved with Rough Roads

Jeah's journey into the world of cosmetics began nearly ten years ago. With sheer determination and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he transformed his love for cosmetics into a true art form. As an avid pageant enthusiast, he often imagined himself in the company of beauty queens, watching as they meticulously applied their makeup in preparation for the competition.

Jeah’s earliest foray into the make-up industry was as an assistant to a seasoned professional. His duties included carrying heavy bags, setting up the makeup chair, vanity mirror, and lights, and other behind-the-scenes tasks that are essential to the craft. Although Jeah didn't get to practice her makeup skills on clients right away, he knew that every step of the process was crucial to his development.

Undeterred, he persevered and viewed it as an opportunity to showcase his talents, eagerly awaiting the moment when he would finally receive his big break. After years of hard work and dedication, he finally earned his wings by successfully acquiring clients of his own.

As destination weddings became a norm so does job assignments that took Jeah to many wonderful places. Jeah fondly recalls one of his most unforgettable work experiences when a client graciously invited him to join her on a trip to a stunning island.

“One of my most memorable jobs was when a client of mine took me with her to the beautiful Balesin island to do her make-up on her wedding”

That opportunity also allowed him to experience a lavish vacation he wouldn’t normally afford. “Experiences like that on the job, are what reminds me of how blessed I am in this industry”, Jeah adds.

Defining Beauty and Making His Mark

“Beauty is the combination of outer or physical appearance, the quality of being pleasing or attractive and the inner beauty that defines the character of a person”, says Jeah when asked about his definition of beauty.

Remembering his newbie days that includes episodes of being looked down by a wedding coordinator, Jeah, recalls meeting that same coordinator several years later. “She looked at me from head to toe and I just glanced at her”, Jeah recalls “I was already established by this time, but I hold no resentment to her or to anyone who belittled me. What she said to me 10 years ago served as a challenge to me to improve myself”

Today, it is not uncommon to see Jeah’s list of clienteles includes celebrities such as Sanya Lopez, Sue Ramirez, Bianca Guidote, Teejay Marquez as well as several foreign models. After nearly a decade in the business and overcoming every conceivable pitfalls and challenges, Jeah is now starting to carve out a name for himself. 

With a Little Help from his Friends

Even in the cutthroat world of the make-up industry and despite the close competition among many talented individuals, Jeah is fortunate to have met mentors along the way who helped shape his career and improve his craft.

“I am not in this field without Sir Ryan Dignadise. He's my mentor who taught me everything I learned in this craft. Whatever I accomplished was just because of his patience to teach me which I developed in myself and worked hard for. And to all the people who believed in me most specifically to Ana Gonzales of Bride Magazine”

 “Nars” is his Weapon of Choice

Just as the cliche goes, "never go into battle without your best weapon," Jeah never shows up to a make-up gig without his trusty Nars cosmetics case. “For me, it's Nars because the quality of the product speaks for itself. It is really satisfying for me as a make-up artist using this brand”

When giving advice to aspiring makeup artists, Jeah stresses the importance of trying out many brands before committing to one. To give an example, he said that using the pricier brand Nars made him, and all of his clients satisfied. "Spend your money on only the highest-quality cosmetics brand that can help you achieve your goals," advised Jeah.

On What Makes a Make-up Artist a True Professional?

“Practice, practice, and more practice”, repeats Jeah when asked what it makes for a make-up artist to be seen and respected as a professional. “There's a lot of make-up artist and claiming professional but for me when we say we are professional it's not just how we draw lines and put colors to the faces of our clients but giving value to our profession.”

Another sign of a true professional according to Jeah, is the ability to remain humble and the willingness to share one’s talent especially in the grassroot level of the industry so as to reach more start-up make-up artists and inspire them to reach their dreams.

“Be Humble. Always think where and how you started. Always share your knowledge and experiences to those aspiring artist. I believe that being good to your fellow and sharing your knowledge makes you look good. Being positive all the time makes you feel good and look good to others”.