For celebrity makeup artist Sheika Daley, artistry has always been in her blood. When asked if she credits her mother, who was a painter, with sparking her love for color and transformation, she emphatically answered, “Absolutely. My mother was my first example of what it meant to be an artist. Watching her mix paints and create these incredible pieces gave me an appreciation for color, texture, and transformation at a very young age. I think makeup became my canvas because it was a way to bring that same creativity into real life. To see someone’s face light up when they look in the mirror is the ultimate painting in motion.”
That creative spark followed her to college, where she was actually studying mathematics on a full scholarship. But numbers quickly took a backseat to beauty. “Yes, that was the real turning point. I was on a full scholarship studying mathematics, but people kept coming to me in my dorm for makeup before parties, events, and even just everyday glam. I realized that not only did I love it, but there was a demand for it. It showed me that this wasn’t just a hobby; it could actually be a career. Walking away from that scholarship wasn’t easy, but I knew I had to follow the gift God gave me.”
Her early days doing makeup in strip clubs also shaped the artist she is today. She got to practice her techniques in a challenging setting, “Those women taught me so much about artistry and confidence. They wanted to look flawless under bright lights, for long hours, and through constant movement, so I had to learn durability, precision, and speed very quickly. But beyond technique, I saw how makeup made them feel powerful. That really shaped the way I approach every client now. It’s not just about how the makeup looks, it’s about how it makes you feel.”
Sheika applies that same philosophy in her role as Lancôme’s Global International Artist. “Working with Lancôme has been such a dream. As a Global International Artist, I not only get to represent the brand on a global stage but also influence how the products are used and developed. When I co-created the Idôle Café Crush Palette, I was very hands-on, from selecting shades to ensuring textures would flatter all skin tones. For me, inclusivity is non-negotiable. I wanted every woman, no matter her complexion, to feel seen in that palette.”
When asked about her favorite red carpet moment, Sheika admits it was hard to choose, but “Anok at the 2024 Met Gala takes the win. With that crystal-embellished jumpsuit, I had to make sure the makeup complemented the sparkle without competing. I focused on luminous, sculpted skin, smoky dimension on the eyes, and highlights that caught the light. The goal was harmony, and the makeup had to enhance her natural beauty while holding up under intense lighting and photography. That balance made the look feel magical.”
Visibility has always been central to her artistry. “Representation is at the heart of everything I do. Growing up, I didn’t always see deeper skin tones celebrated in beauty campaigns, and I wanted to change that. But beyond representation, I also just love color. Makeup should never feel limiting. Deeper complexions are like the richest canvas because bold colors don’t just sit on the skin; they come alive. That’s endlessly inspiring to me.”
Sheika also reminds us that makeup is about emotional connection. “The Black Hair Reimagined Fashion Show was that moment for me. It was more than just a show. It felt like a love letter to our culture. Of course, the fashion, hair, and makeup were all center stage in bringing the vision to life, but what made it truly magical was the collaboration of so many artists. We weren’t just showcasing looks, we were celebrating Black excellence in its most beautiful form. That energy, that shared intention, is what elevated the experience beyond makeup. It became a moment of connection, pride, and artistry that we all felt together.”
And if you are wondering what’s next for Sheika, she’s working on some exciting upcoming projects. “We have a new Elora Lane collection on the way that I’m so excited about, and I’ll also be taking my beauty tour on the road next year. There’s so much in store, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone.”
XOXO,
Your Beauty Bestie
