For decades, the faces that defined beauty were those in front of the camera. Models, endorsers, and celebrities shaped the standards many aspired to, their looks polished to near perfection. What often went unseen was the quiet machinery behind these images. Teams of hairstylists, makeup artists, and creatives worked tirelessly offstage, crafting what many would come to believe as effortless, everyday beauty.

For years, consumers lived within that illusion. The idea that these looks could be easily replicated masked the expertise, labor, and artistry required to achieve them. Beauty, in many ways, was presented as something innate rather than constructed.

Today, that narrative is shifting. The spotlight is widening to include the creatives themselves. Makeup artists, once confined behind the scenes, are stepping forward—sharing their techniques online, building loyal communities, and taking on roles as brand founders and ambassadors. Their voices are shaping a more transparent and inclusive understanding of beauty.

In response, Manila Bulletin Lifestyle turns its focus to these industry shapers. At the forefront is Mikka Marcaida, the founder of Faboulash, whose journey reflects both the grit and evolution of the modern makeup artist.

With over a decade in the industry, Mikka’s career is built on persistence. “I’ve been in the industry for more than 13 years. I started out assisting, did jobs that only paid in credits, and just kept going,” the Isabela-born and raised makeup artist says. What began as behind-the-scenes work has since come full circle.

Today, she is entrusted with some of her clients’ most important moments, from bridal transformations to international campaigns. She’s the master behind Angelica Panganiban’s stunning bridal look in 2024 and the same creative hand that worked with some of Liza Soberano’s best angelic makeup look. “Now I get to do celebrities in their biggest moments, fly across the world for clients, and create looks you’ve probably already seen in ads without knowing it was me.”

Her early years, however, were far from glamorous. Like many creatives, she navigated an industry that can be as demanding as it is rewarding. “It’s never easy to be in a creative industry,” she says candidly. “There’s a constant push and pull of why you’re staying.” Being young in the field came with its own challenges, including being underestimated and, at times, taken advantage of. Still, she persisted. “I kept showing up anyway. That stubbornness ended up being my greatest asset.”

Beyond the artistry, it is the human connections that have defined her career. “We don’t just do glam for a living,” Mikka explains. “We become our clients’ therapist, cheerleader, creative partner.” These relationships, she says, are the most meaningful part of her work, extending far beyond the makeup chair.

That sense of self-worth, hard-earned over years of experience, became a turning point. “I stopped waiting for people to give me a seat at the table and just built my own,” the BS Psychology graduate from University of Sto. Thomas shares. It is this mindset that eventually led to the creation of Faboulash, a brand born out of both necessity and insight.

When Mikka was starting out, she noticed a gap in the market. Affordable lashes that suited Asian eyes were scarce, especially for beginners. With only ₱20,000 as initial capital, she took a leap. “If no one buys my products, I’ll just use them on my clients anyway,” she recalls.

What began as a practical solution soon gained traction, particularly among fellow makeup artists. Today, Faboulash has grown into a sought-after name in the beauty community. In fact, she already partnered with colleagues including Jelly Eugenio, Mark Qua, and Athena Bueno, dropping cluster lashes collections designed by these professional celebrity makeup artists.

True to her signature style, Mikka’s approach to beauty remains grounded. She favors makeup that enhances rather than overwhelms. “I want people to look like themselves, just the best version,” she says. The goal is subtlety—skin that looks like skin, with thoughtful details that elevate rather than mask.

As the beauty landscape continues to evolve, Mikka stays inspired by looking beyond it. Travel, art, fashion, and everyday life all inform her work. Equally important is listening. “My clients keep me grounded in what’s actually needed versus what’s just trending,” she shares, noting how navigating both local and international scenes gives her a broader perspective.

For aspiring makeup artists, her advice is clear and rooted from experience. “Stop waiting for the perfect moment,” she says. “Start where you are, with what you have.The ones who last are the ones who genuinely love the craft more than they love the clout.”