Olandria Carthen and Painted by Esther Champion MAC Cosmetics’ Blush for Dark Skin

Published: May 29, 2026 Last Updated 12 minutes ago by Esther Ejoh

Blush has reemerged as a bold statement in beauty, symbolizing confidence and self-expression.

MAC Cosmetics embraces this trend in the May 2026 issue of its relaunched digital publication, MACzine, which focuses exclusively on blush. This edition features makeup artist Ngozi Esther Edeme (Painted by Esther) and her client, Love Island USA star Olandria Carthen, who appears on the cover.

This collaboration highlights innovation, celebrates Black beauty, and demonstrates the transformative power of makeup in the hands of visionary artists.

MAC Cosmetics is recognized for its inclusive, color-focused makeup. The relaunch of MACzine provides a platform to explore trends, techniques, and industry leaders. The third issue focuses on blush, highlighting the new Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush collection and featuring Painted by Esther as a leading authority.

Painted by Esther‘s signature gradient blush technique, which layers multiple shades for a multidimensional effect, has gained significant attention on social media. Inspired by makeup legends like Kevyn Aucoin, she adapts this approach for modern, melanin-rich skin tones. For the MACzine shoot, she used three blushes: “Candy Yum Yum,” “Snob,” and “Lalalavender.”

The result is a striking, editorial look that demonstrates bold color suits every skin tone.

Who Is Painted by Esther? The Blush Queen Redefining Makeup

Ngozi Esther Edeme has built an impressive career working with A-list talents including Tyla, Viola Davis, Anok Yai, and SZA. Her philosophy goes far beyond technical skill.

As she shared in MACzine: “My goal is always to bring out the glow from within and never let makeup mask the person underneath. I want inner beauty to shine through in its most elevated form while celebrating every shade, feature and expression of Black women.”

Her gradient blush technique uses strategic placement and blending: starting with a transition shade, adding a vibrant main color, and finishing with a deeper tone to connect the layers. She applies blush from the outside in, intensifying color at the apples of the cheeks and softening toward the center. “Never ever just one [blush],” she advises. “That’s boring!”

This bold yet intentional approach challenges the misconception that dark skin cannot wear bright or heavy blush. Olandria Carthen agrees: “I truly feel like [blush] brings out my features and I really want a lot of women with deep, dark skin tones to not be scared to put blush on. It’s beautiful and it highlights our beauty that we already have within.”

For the MACzine feature, Painted by Esther created Olandria’s complete MAC look. In addition to the multi-shade gradient blush on the cheeks and under-eyes, the look included spiky lashes, warm brown eyeshadows, and a classic lip pairing of MAC Lip Pencil in “Chestnut” with MACximal Sleek Satin Lipstick in “Peachstock.”

The cover image shows Olandria holding a Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush compact, with her jet-black stiletto manicure adding a distinctive touch. This visual encapsulates the issue’s theme: blush as both an artistic tool and an empowering ritual.

This MACzine issue stands out for its focus on representation. Historically, beauty standards have marginalized bold color on deeper complexions. Painted by Esther and Olandria Carthen are shifting this narrative, encouraging women to use blush to enhance their natural features.

This message is timely. In 2025-2026, blush has shifted from minimal applications to expressive, artistic statements. MAC’s campaign supports this trend and highlights authentic Black creativity and expertise.

The release of this feature has prompted broader industry discussion. Painted by Esther’s viral TikTok content on blush techniques has attracted millions of views and contributed to conversations about originality and credit in beauty. Her influence on blush trends is significant and reinforces her status as a pioneer.

By featuring Painted by Esther and Olandria Carthen in MACzine, MAC Cosmetics demonstrates a commitment to authenticity and elevating underrepresented voices in beauty. Dedicating an entire issue to blush and its leading artist reinforces MAC’s reputation for inclusivity and creativity.

For those interested in recreating the look, Painted by Esther’s tips provide clear guidance: use multiple shades, blend carefully, and wear color confidently. This MACzine issue offers both inspiration and practical advice for all blush enthusiasts.

As the beauty industry embraces maximalism and personal expression, collaborations like this highlight that the most influential trends are driven by people, stories, and the confidence to express individuality.

The MACzine Blush Issue featuring Painted by Esther and Olandria Carthen is now available on the MAC website and social channels. Explore the full feature for expert tips, behind-the-scenes insights, and visuals from this notable beauty moment.

Photo: MAC Cosmetics