Internationally renowned, celebrity make-up artist, Morag Steyn shares her experience on how the Coronavirus has affected the beauty industry globally.
Changes in client requests and how you’re coping?
I have been doing online courses in hygiene in the workplace and educating myself on COVID-19, I feel it is very important for artists to understand and know what is out there, in terms of what precautions need to be in place. I am also in the process of launching online make up courses, and getting involved with beauty and cosmetic industry platforms, that have already been established online for years.
I would love to see the brands we work with, or for, to offer support to the professional freelance community which is really in need, as I am unsure how our community will survive. Yes, we love what we do, but we want to be able to make a living too, we too have aspirations to thrive after COVID-19. We cannot take less than what we’re worth moving forward, in reference to the fact that our rates are been cut using COVID-19 as an excuse.
The changes in client requests have honestly been scarce and far apart, as there has not been any work happening. I do know now that there will be huge changes in how artists will work going forward. I have been getting a few requests here and there. I do not see a recovery very soon in terms of that artists can freely travel around to work. The most important thing now is to stay as connected to your clients as possible offer them some free make up tips via a virtual lesson, and as soon as thing get better I am sure that we can move forward.
Any upcoming product ranges you may have used or trends and how their launch or planning been shaped has by the pandemic?
Digital, digital, digital, all brands will now focus on uniting consumers via virtual e-commerce in the comfort and safety of their own homes. I have seen so many brands continuing with their launches, just virtually, it has been great to see the change, but it’ll be hard to adapt. Make Up is a “feel”, a texture and a colour which we are so used to playing with before we buy.
New communication approach for your brand?
It’s all about finding where you as an artist fit into this multi-billion rand industry. In 2020 it was predicted that beauty industry is all about “feeling” beautiful. It’s about the whole package now. Clients will want to work with fewer people, and only those that have been consistent and whom have a good work ethic. You need to know something about everything, offer this on all your social media platforms. Communication on an e-commerce level now more than ever. Get your client data base intact, if you have not done so already.
Some tips for those trying to find their content creation spark and where they can be relevant in these COVID-19 times?
I have seen a huge increase in those looking to professionals to create this “beauty perfection” from eye lash extensions to eyebrow threading treatments. This all has now been instantly taken away from consumers, so how are consumers going to respond? Initial thoughts suggest that consumers are looking to alternative solutions, they need your tutorials and videos. Focus on points like Low maintenance beauty, Experimental beauty and DIY beauty.