At just 20 years old, Jemma has already spent seven incredible years sharing her passion for makeup with the world. With a flair for highlighting affordable and accessible products, Jemma’s content is a treasure trove of beauty inspiration.
Juggling studies at Stellenbosch University and a thriving makeup career, Jemma’s social media platforms offer a refreshing glimpse into her multifaceted life. From student life hacks to makeup tutorials and navigating the ups and downs of her 20s, Jemma’s candid content has captured the hearts of beauty enthusiasts everywhere.
As the sun shines brighter, Jemma’s here to spill the tea on the hottest summer makeup tips and trends.
What inspired you to become a makeup artist?
I was thirteen and had been into art and drawing for as long as I could remember, I was also inspired by the makeup art movement that took place in 2017 & 2018. I was far more interested in using makeup as an artform to recreate iconic paintings and turning myself into all sorts of characters, makeup felt like a new canvas for me to do art on. It was only later that I explored how to translate this creativity in my day to day makeup. After experiencing that form of self expression you can truly never go back.
How did you get started in the industry?
From my very first make-up look, I posted it online. I always joke that I am a child of the internet, but it was my entertainment of choice from as soon as I was allowed on my parents computer. After getting my hands on my moms old makeup at twelve, I had been posting my makeup looks (or attempts at the start) everyday since 2018. This slowly grew my connections to brands and other makeup lovers, getting my foot in the door to work within the industry.
What’s your favourite part about being a make-up artist, and what’s been your career highlights?
My favourite part is the creativity and the human aspect behind makeup. Talking to people, and seeing peop,le brought together over their excitement for makeup or their desire to learn more is truly so sweet. I feel like a kid in a candy store walking down a makeup isle every single time, and it truly becomes this creative escape. It’s also given me what I hope is the start of a fruitful career. I have worked on national ad campaigns, hosted makeup masterclasses and as of very recent even been able to see the world because of my passion for makeup and the people that believe in me. Every job feels like a surreal experience, and it always makes me think of how twelve year old Jemma would react to the news.
What are the hottest makeup summer trends this December?
I still think blush is all the rage, especially for a summer look. Pack in a cream blush to use on the cheeks, lips and even the eyes – one and done.
How can we incorporate neon colours into summer looks
Love this! I’m always an advocate for adding a pop of colour in the inner corner of your eyes. It brightens your eyes, adds a very youthful element and it’s beyond beginner friendly. Always achieves a compliment and all you need is to pop a bright eyeshadow in those inner corners of your eye with a small brush or even your pinkie.
How can we keep our makeup looking flawless in the heat?
Oil. Blotting. Sheets. Do your make-up as usual, making sure to prime, powder and set – but pop some oil blotting sheets in your bag. Tapping these sheets on your face after building up a sweat takes all the oils and sweat away, but leaves your make-up looking like you just finished getting ready 5 minutes ago. It’s life changing, I promise.
What’s the most common mistakes beginners make when applying make up?
Neglecting skinprep and primers, It can feel redundant, especially when first starting out, but good preparation is going to make all the difference in your wear and even your makeup’s finish. Make sure you’re moisturised and primed!
Can you share a simple, everyday make up routine for beginners?
My number one priority for a simple look is make sure you have mastered your eyebrows. Figure out if you like a fluffier or more drawn in style, shape them to your liking, keep everything as symmetrical as possible, and I can guarantee that winning at brows is winning half of the battle already. After that a gorgeous mascara, skin tint/concealer, blush, bronzer and a lippie means you could be good to go! Just make sure to wrap up with a light dusting of powder and some setting spray to keep your hard work all day long.
What are you mostly looking forward to in 2025?
To see what career opportunities unfold! I am so passionate about what I do, and it’s always been my main focus day in and day out. 2024 definitely presented it’s challenges and the “coming of age” movies make it look significantly easier to find your feet, but looking back on 2024 I am so grateful for the opportunities I was graced with. I just know that 2025 will knock me off my feet in all the best career ways possible