10 Best Makeup Influencers to Watch in 2023

Makeup is an art form that has taken the world by storm, with a myriad of beauty influencers sharing their expertise and tips online. These makeup influencers have become the go-to source for all things makeup-related, from product recommendations to tutorials and everything in between. 

Influencer marketing is a rapidly evolving industry that has gained immense popularity in recent years. In the world of beauty, influencers have the power to make or break a product, which is why brands are constantly on the lookout for the next big thing in makeup. As we move into 2023, there are a select group of makeup influencers who are poised to take the industry by storm. 

In this article, we’ll be highlighting the top 10 makeup influencers that brands should be watching closely in the coming year. These influencers have amassed huge followings, have a strong social media presence, and are trendsetters in the world of beauty. 

So, whether you’re a makeup lover or a brand looking to stay ahead of the curve, read on to discover the top 10 makeup influencers to watch in 2023.

What Is Makeup Influencer

A makeup influencer is someone who has a significant following on social media, particularly on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, or Snapchat, and who uses their platform to share their knowledge, expertise, and opinions on makeup and beauty products. 

Makeup influencers are typically skilled makeup artists, beauty enthusiasts, or bloggers who use their platform to showcase their talents, share makeup tutorials, provide product recommendations, and review the latest makeup trends and products. 

They often partner with brands to promote their products and collaborate on sponsored content, which can be incredibly lucrative for both parties. As such, makeup influencers have a significant impact on the beauty industry, as their opinions and recommendations can greatly influence consumer behavior and purchasing decisions.

Why Influencer Marketing Works for Makeup Brands

Influencer marketing has become an increasingly popular strategy for makeup brands, and for good reason. There are several reasons why influencer marketing works particularly well for makeup brands:

1. Trust and Credibility

Makeup influencers have built a loyal following who trust their recommendations and value their opinions. By partnering with makeup influencers, brands can tap into this trust and credibility, and effectively promote their products to a targeted audience. So, they can help you grow your Instagram followers in no time.

2. Social Proof

When makeup influencers use and promote a particular product, it serves as social proof that the product is effective and desirable. This can encourage other consumers to try the product for themselves, particularly if they are interested in achieving a similar look or style.

3. Reach and Engagement 

Makeup influencers have a large following on social media, which means that they can help brands reach a wider audience and increase engagement with their products. Influencers can create engaging content such as tutorials, product reviews, and before-and-after transformations, which can generate buzz and interest around a brand’s products.

4. Cost-effective

Compared to traditional advertising methods, influencer marketing can be a cost-effective way for makeup brands to promote their products. Brands can work with influencers at various price points, and the return on investment (ROI) can be significant if the partnership is successful.

So, influencer marketing is an effective way for makeup brands to build brand awareness, increase sales, and connect with a targeted audience of beauty enthusiasts.

What Are the Best Platforms for Makeup Influencers

Makeup influencers can leverage a variety of social media platforms to reach their audience and promote their content. The best platforms for makeup influencers depend on the type of content they create and the audience they want to reach. Here are some of the most popular platforms for makeup influencers:

#1 Instagram

Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms for makeup influencers. It is a visual platform that is perfect for showcasing makeup looks and tutorials, and it offers a range of features such as Instagram Stories and Reels, which can help influencers engage with their audience and grow their following.

Related article: Instagram Marketing

#2 YouTube 

YouTube is another popular platform for makeup influencers. It allows influencers to create longer-form video content such as tutorials, reviews, and product hauls, and it offers a wide range of monetization options such as ads, sponsorships, and merchandise.

#3 TikTok

TikTok is a short-form video platform that is popular with younger audiences. Makeup influencers can create fun and engaging content such as makeup challenges, quick tutorials, and before-and-after transformations, and it offers a range of creative tools and features to enhance their content.

Related article: TikTok Influencer Marketing

#4 Pinterest

Pinterest is a visual search engine that is popular with beauty enthusiasts. Makeup influencers can use Pinterest to create and curate boards featuring their favorite makeup looks and products and to drive traffic to their blog or other social media platforms.

Overall, the best platform for a makeup influencer depends on their goals, content type, and target audience. Successful makeup influencers often use multiple platforms to reach a wider audience and engage with their followers.

How to Find Makeup Influencers on Instagram

There are thousands of fantastic makeup influencers on Instagram. But finding all of them through Google seems impossible. And even after finding them through different lists such as this one, contacting them takes a lot of effort. But, you don’t need to do everything manually.

Influencer marketing platforms are here to make the job easier for you. Ainfluencer is a free DIY influencer marketplace that can help you find the perfect influencer for your brand in no time.

You can sign up for free on Ainfluencer and use its advanced search tool to find your ideal influencer to collaborate with. You can filter influencers based on their location, language, followers count, etc. And the rest only takes a few simple clicks.

Ainfluencer has responsive customer service that walks you through every step. So, waste no time and sign on Ainfluencer.

The Top 10 Makeup Influencers on Instagram

Here are the top 10 makeup influencers on Instagram, based on their number of followers, engagement rates, and overall impact in the beauty industry:

1. Huda Kattan (@hudabeauty) – 52.3 Million Followers

Huda Kattan, also known as @hudabeauty, is a well-known beauty blogger and makeup artist who has amassed a massive following on social media. As of March 2023, she has 52.3 million followers on Instagram, making her one of the most followed beauty influencers in the world.

Huda was born in Oklahoma, but her family moved to Dubai when she was young. She started her career as a makeup artist, and eventually started her own beauty blog and YouTube channel. Her social media presence took off, and she quickly gained a large following for her beauty tutorials and product recommendations.

In 2013, Huda launched her own beauty brand, also called Huda Beauty. The brand initially focused on false lashes but has since expanded to include a wide range of cosmetics, including eyeshadow palettes, lipsticks, and skincare products. Huda’s brand has been wildly successful and has been praised for its high-quality products and inclusive shade range.

Huda is also known for her philanthropic work. She has supported a number of charities, including the Dubai Cares foundation and the Red Crescent organization. She has also been vocal about her support for women’s empowerment and has spoken out against gender inequality in the beauty industry.

Overall, Huda Kattan is a highly influential figure in the beauty world, known for her talent as a makeup artist, her successful beauty brand, and her dedication to philanthropy and social justice. Her massive following on social media is a testament to her popularity and influence.

2. James Charles (@jamescharles) – 21.9 Million Followers

James Charles is a beauty YouTuber and makeup artist who has gained immense popularity on social media, with 21.9 million followers on Instagram as of March 2023. He was born in 1999 in New York and started his career on YouTube in 2015, sharing makeup tutorials and beauty content.

James Charles gained widespread attention when he became the first-ever male CoverGirl spokesperson in 2016, breaking gender barriers in the beauty industry. He quickly became a prominent figure in the beauty world and has since collaborated with a number of popular brands.

As a makeup artist, James Charles is known for his bold and creative looks. He often experiments with vibrant colors and intricate designs, and his tutorials are popular for their detailed instructions and tips. He has also been praised for his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and has used his platform to speak out against discrimination and bullying.

However, James Charles has also faced controversy during his career. In 2019, he was involved in a public feud with fellow beauty YouTuber Tati Westbrook, which led to a significant loss of subscribers. He has also been accused of inappropriate behavior with minors, which he has denied.

Despite the controversies, James Charles remains a highly influential figure in the beauty world, and his massive social media following is a testament to his popularity. He continues to create makeup tutorials, collaborate with brands, and advocate for causes important to him.

3. Bretman Rock (@bretmanrock) – 18.6 Million Followers

Bretman Rock is a social media personality, beauty influencer, and comedian with a massive following on various social media platforms. He was born in the Philippines in 1998 and moved to Hawaii with his family when he was young. He rose to fame on Vine and gained a large following on other platforms like YouTube and Instagram.

As of March 2023, Bretman Rock has 18.6 million followers on Instagram. He is known for his comedic videos, makeup tutorials, and relatable content. His unique personality and sense of humor have endeared him to fans all over the world.

Bretman Rock’s content often features his family and friends, and he is known for his close relationship with his sister, Princess Mae. He has also collaborated with a number of popular brands, including Morphe and ColourPop.

In addition to his social media presence, Bretman Rock is also a philanthropist and has used his platform to raise awareness for important causes. He has supported organizations that focus on issues like mental health and LGBTQ+ rights.

Bretman Rock’s popularity has led to a number of opportunities outside of social media. He has appeared in a reality TV show and has been invited to attend high-profile events like the MTV Video Music Awards. He has also been featured in publications like Vogue and Cosmopolitan.

Overall, Bretman Rock is a highly influential figure in the world of social media, known for his humor, creativity, and relatability. His massive following on Instagram is a testament to his popularity and influence.

4. Nikki Tutorials (@nikkietutorials) – 17.3 Million Followers

Nikki Tutorials, whose real name is Nikkie de Jager, is a Dutch makeup artist and beauty YouTuber with a huge online following. She was born on March 2, 1994, in the Netherlands, and started her YouTube channel, NikkiTutorials, in 2008, at the age of 14.

Nikki gained international recognition in 2015 when her video “The Power of Makeup” went viral. In the video, she demonstrated how makeup could be used to enhance natural beauty rather than hide flaws. The video received widespread acclaim and was shared by celebrities such as Kylie Jenner, Kim Kardashian, and James Charles.

Since then, Nikki has become one of the most influential beauty YouTubers, with over 14 million subscribers on YouTube and millions of followers on Instagram and other social media platforms. She has collaborated with major beauty brands such as Too Faced, Ofra Cosmetics, and Maybelline, and has even launched her own beauty brand, Nimya Beauty.

Apart from her makeup tutorials and beauty content, Nikki is also known for her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. In 2020, she came out as transgender in a video titled “I’m Coming Out,” which received widespread support and praise from her followers and the beauty community.

Overall, Nikki Tutorials has built a massive following due to her talent, creativity, and authenticity, as well as her advocacy for causes close to her heart. She has proven to be a trailblazer in the beauty industry and a role model for millions of people worldwide.

5. Jeffree Star (@jeffreestarcosmetics) – 13.8 Million Followers

Jeffree Star is an American entrepreneur, makeup artist, and beauty YouTuber. He was born on November 15, 1985, in Orange County, California, and first gained fame as a musician and MySpace personality in the early 2000s.

In 2014, Jeffree launched his makeup brand, Jeffree Star Cosmetics, which has since become one of the most successful and recognizable beauty brands in the industry. The brand is known for its high-quality, cruelty-free products and bold, innovative colors and packaging.

Jeffree is also a popular beauty influencer with millions of followers on social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. His YouTube channel, Jeffree Star, has over 15 million subscribers and features makeup tutorials, product reviews, and behind-the-scenes content from his personal and professional life.

In addition to his work in the beauty industry, Jeffree is also known for his controversial behavior and outspoken opinions. He has been involved in numerous online feuds and controversies, including allegations of racism, offensive remarks, and past criminal behavior. 

However, he has also been praised for his philanthropy and charity work, including his support for the LGBTQ+ community and various organizations such as the American Cancer Society and the Trevor Project.

Overall, Jeffree Star is a highly influential figure in the beauty industry and a polarizing figure in popular culture. He has built a massive following due to his talent and creativity, as well as his bold and unapologetic personality. Despite the controversies surrounding him, he remains a major force in the world of beauty and continues to push the boundaries of the industry.

6. Desi Perkins (@desiperkins) – 4.4 Million Followers

Desi Perkins is a Mexican-American beauty YouTuber, social media influencer, and entrepreneur. She was born on March 3, 1987, in Los Angeles, California, and first gained fame on YouTube for her makeup tutorials, product reviews, and collaborations with other beauty influencers and brands.

Desi’s YouTube channel, Desi Perkins, has over 3 million subscribers and features makeup tutorials, lifestyle content, and collaborations with major beauty brands such as Dose of Colors, Benefit Cosmetics, and Quay Australia. She is known for her versatile and accessible makeup looks, as well as her relatable and down-to-earth personality.

In addition to her work as a beauty influencer, Desi has launched her own beauty brand, DEZI, which offers high-quality, cruelty-free makeup and beauty products. She has also been involved in various philanthropic initiatives and has used her platform to promote inclusivity, diversity, and self-confidence.

Desi is also an advocate for mental health and has been open about her struggles with anxiety and depression. She has used her platform to raise awareness about mental health issues and to promote self-care and wellness.

Desi Perkins is an incredibly renowned and esteemed individual within the beauty industry, achieving an immense amount of respect and admirers throughout the world. She has gained an extensive fan base owing to her considerable skill and ingenuity, as well as honesty.

7. Patrick Starr (@patrickstarrr) – 4.3 Million Followers

Patrick Starr, whose real name is Patrick Simondac, is a Filipino-American makeup artist, beauty YouTuber, and social media influencer. He was born on November 11, 1989, in Orlando, Florida, and first gained fame on YouTube for his makeup tutorials, product reviews, and collaborations with other beauty influencers and brands.

Patrick’s YouTube channel, PatrickStarrr, has over 4 million subscribers and features makeup tutorials for all skin tones and types, as well as lifestyle content and collaborations with other celebrities and brands. He is known for his glamorous and transformative makeup looks, as well as his infectious personality and humor.

In addition to his work as a beauty influencer, Patrick has also collaborated with major beauty brands such as MAC Cosmetics, Maybelline, and Morphe. He has launched his own beauty brand, ONE/SIZE, which offers high-quality, inclusive, and affordable makeup products and has been well-received by the beauty community.

Patrick is also an advocate for inclusivity and diversity in the beauty industry, particularly for people of color and the LGBTQ+ community. He has used his platform to promote acceptance and representation and has been recognized for his contributions to the community.

He is a highly distinguished figure in the beauty industry and an exemplary role model for his many admirers around the world. 

8. Manny MUA (@mannymua733) – 4.1 Million Followers

Manny MUA, whose real name is Manuel Gutierrez, is a makeup artist, beauty YouTuber, and social media influencer with millions of followers across various platforms. He was born on April 4, 1991, in San Diego, California, and first gained fame as a beauty blogger and makeup artist on Instagram and YouTube.

Manny’s YouTube channel, Manny MUA, has over 4 million subscribers and features makeup tutorials, product reviews, and collaborations with other beauty influencers and brands. He is known for his bold and colorful makeup looks, as well as his infectious personality and humor.

Apart from his work as a beauty influencer, Manny has also collaborated with major beauty brands such as Morphe, Lunar Beauty, and Benefit Cosmetics. He has launched his own beauty brand, Lunar Beauty, which offers high-quality, cruelty-free makeup products and has been well-received by the beauty community.

Manny has also been an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and has spoken openly about his experiences as a gay man in the beauty industry. He has used his platform to promote acceptance and inclusivity and has been recognized for his contributions to the community.

Overall, Manny MUA is a major figure in the beauty industry and a role model for millions of followers worldwide. He has built a massive following due to his talent, creativity, and authenticity, as well as his advocacy for causes close to his heart.

9. Jackie Aina (@jackieaina) – 1.8 Million Followers

Jackie Aina is a Nigerian-American beauty YouTuber, social media influencer, and entrepreneur. She was born on August 4, 1987, in Los Angeles, California, and first gained fame on YouTube for her makeup tutorials, product reviews, and advocacy for diversity and inclusivity in the beauty industry.

With an impressive.3.54 million subscribers, Jackie Aina’s YouTube channel provides a wealth of content covering makeup tutorials and lifestyle topics with something to offer everyone, regardless of their skin tone or type. She also works with Too Faced, Anastasia Beverly Hills, and Pat McGrath Labs. And known for her bold and colorful makeup looks, as well as her outspoken and unapologetic approach to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the beauty industry.

In addition to her work as a beauty influencer, Jackie has launched her own beauty brand, FORVR MOOD, which offers scented candles and other self-care products. She has also been involved in various philanthropic initiatives and has used her platform to promote social justice, political activism, and self-confidence.

Jackie is widely recognized as one of the leading voices for diversity and inclusivity in the beauty industry. She has been a vocal critic of brands that exclude people of color from their marketing and product development and has pushed for greater representation and inclusivity in the beauty industry. Her advocacy has earned her numerous accolades, including a Women in Beauty award from Glamour magazine.

Overall, Jackie Aina is a major figure in the beauty industry and a role model for millions of followers worldwide. She has built a massive following due to her talent, creativity, and authenticity, as well as her advocacy for important social issues.

10. Christen Dominique (@christendominique) – 1.7 Million Followers

Christen Dominique is a beauty YouTuber, social media influencer, and entrepreneur. She was born on February 5, 1987, in Texas, and first gained fame on YouTube for her makeup tutorials, product reviews, and collaborations with other beauty influencers and brands.

Christen’s YouTube channel, Christen Dominique, has over 4 million subscribers and features makeup tutorials, beauty tips, and lifestyle content. She is known for her glamorous and bold makeup looks, as well as her relatable and friendly personality.

In addition to her work as a beauty influencer, Christen has launched her own beauty brand, Dominique Cosmetics, which offers high-quality, cruelty-free makeup products. She has also been involved in various philanthropic initiatives and has used her platform to promote self-confidence and positivity.

Christen is widely recognized as a talented and creative makeup artist and influencer. She has collaborated with major beauty brands such as Sephora, Urban Decay, and Benefit Cosmetics, and has been featured in numerous publications and media outlets. Her passion for beauty and creativity has inspired millions of followers worldwide.

Overall, Christen Dominique is a major figure in the beauty industry and a role model for aspiring makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts. She has built a massive following due to her talent, creativity, and authenticity, as well as her dedication to empowering others through beauty and self-expression.

These influencers have built their following through their expertise in makeup and beauty, and have been able to create loyal communities of fans through their engaging content and honest reviews of various products.

Why Your Brand Should Consider Partnering with a Beauty Influencer

Partnering with a beauty influencer can be a highly effective way to promote your brand and reach new audiences. Here are a few reasons why your brand should consider working with a beauty influencer:

1. Reach a Targeted Audience

Beauty influencers have highly engaged and loyal followers who are interested in beauty, skincare, and makeup. By partnering with an influencer, you can tap into their existing audience and reach a targeted group of potential customers who are more likely to be interested in your products or services.

2. Build Trust and Credibility

 Makeup influencers are trusted authorities in the beauty industry, and their recommendations and endorsements can carry a lot of weight with their followers. By partnering with an influencer, you can leverage their credibility and establish your brand as a trusted and authoritative source in the industry.

3. Create Authentic and Engaging Content

Beauty influencers are known for their creativity and ability to produce visually stunning content. By partnering with an influencer, you can tap into their creativity and produce engaging and authentic content that resonates with their followers and promotes your brand in a natural and organic way.

4. Increase Brand Awareness

Partnering with a beauty influencer can help increase your brand’s visibility and reach. Influencers have large and active social media followings, which can help amplify your brand’s message and increase awareness among a wider audience.

Overall, partnering with a makeup influencer can be a highly effective way to promote your brand and increase visibility among a targeted and engaged audience. It’s important to carefully select the right influencer for your brand and establish clear goals and objectives for the partnership to ensure the best results.

How to Become A Beauty Influencer

If you think that you can be a beauty influencer, Ainfluencer will be glad to collaborate with you.

You can sign up for free on Ainfluencer and start posting sponsored content. The only thing you need to have is an Instagram or TikTok account with a minimoon of 5000 followers. That’s it!

You can start making money with your Instagram account just like that. Sign up on Ainfluencer and become the next influencer.

FAQs on Makeup Influencers

Now, let us answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

Q1. What Is a Beauty Influencer?

A beauty influencer is a person who has a significant following on social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and who creates content related to beauty, makeup, skincare, haircare, and other related topics. Beauty influencers are typically known for their knowledge and expertise in the beauty industry, as well as their ability to produce high-quality and engaging content.

Beauty influencers often share their personal experiences with different beauty products, provide tutorials on how to achieve specific looks, and offer tips and advice on various beauty-related topics. They may also collaborate with beauty brands to promote and review products and may attend beauty events and launch parties.

Beauty influencers have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more people turn to social media for beauty advice and inspiration. They have a significant influence on consumer behavior and purchasing decisions, and their recommendations and endorsements can carry a lot of weight with their followers.

Overall, beauty influencers are an important part of the beauty industry, and their impact on consumer behavior and trends is significant. They have the ability to reach and engage a large and diverse audience, and their influence is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.

Regenerate response

Q2. Can a Self-thought Makeup Artist Become a Makeup Influencer?

successful makeup influencers started out as self-taught artists who honed their skills through practice, experimentation, and a passion for beauty.

What sets makeup influencers apart is not necessarily formal training or education, but rather their ability to create compelling and engaging content that resonates with their audience. A successful makeup influencer is someone who has a strong personal brand, a unique voice and perspective, and a talent for producing high-quality content that showcases their skills and knowledge of the beauty industry.

To become a makeup influencer, it’s important to focus on building a strong social media presence, creating high-quality content, and engaging with your audience. This may involve posting regular tutorials, product reviews, and other types of beauty-related content, as well as collaborating with other influencers and brands in the industry.

It’s also important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques in the beauty industry and to continue learning and growing as an artist. By consistently creating high-quality content and building a loyal following, a self-taught makeup artist can certainly achieve success as a makeup influencer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of beauty and makeup influencers is constantly evolving, with new talent emerging all the time. However, there are certain influencers who have established themselves as industry leaders, with millions of followers and a significant impact on consumer behavior and trends. 

Brands looking to reach a targeted and engaged audience in the beauty industry should keep an eye on the top 10 makeup influencers to watch in 2023, including Nikki Tutorials, Jeffree Star, Manny MUA, Patrick Starr, Desi Perkins, Jackie Aina, Christen Dominique, Huda Kattan, James Charles, and Bretman Rock. 

By partnering with these influencers or leveraging their influence and expertise to inform their marketing strategies, brands can increase brand awareness, build trust and credibility, and reach new audiences in the highly competitive beauty industry.