If you’ve spent any time on BeautyTok this week, you’ve probably seen the latest beauty scandal involving celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta. And before you ask, yes, the TikTok police are already on the case.
Patrick Ta has already found himself in hot water before following last year’s controversy involving creator Avonna Sunshine. The celebrity makeup artist is once again at the center of BeautyTok drama, this time over his Transition Blush launch. Ta’s technique in the tutorial for the product appeared eerily similar to that of makeup artist and creator Ngozi Edeme, better known as Painted by Esther, whose signature blush placement has become instantly recognizable across social media. The blush-forward technique has become synonymous with Esther’s makeup artistry, winning over beauty enthusiasts and her celebrity clients, including Olandria Carthen, Raye, and Kelly Rowland.
The controversy began when creators started comparing Patrick Ta’s promotional content for his latest blush launch to techniques and terminology associated with Painted by Esther. While makeup trends constantly evolve and inspire one another, many viewers felt the similarities were impossible to ignore. Some viewers were simply focused on the blush placement, while others were busy playing a game of BeautyTok Clue. They instantly realized these four little words: “back of my palm.” Esther has previously admitted that the phrase was actually an accidental fumble during one of her tutorials. We all know that most of us would probably say “back of my hand.” So when Ta used the exact same wording in his own tutorial, TikTok collectively called BS.
Patrick Ta responded to the online criticism by stating that he had been working on the blush concept for over a year and a half. He also acknowledged Esther’s influence and talent, saying she helped popularize the look while explaining that he had been creating his own version of the same blush placement for years. For some viewers, that explanation just didn’t fly. And BeautyTok refuses to take its foot off of Patrick’s neck. One thing brands continue to underestimate is just how observant beauty consumers have become. They collect the receipts.
The Booking That Raised Eyebrows
Adding fuel to the fire is a claim made by Painted by Esther herself in a recent video. She explained that was contacted by someone associated with the Patrick Ta brand for a standard “do and go” makeup appointment. However, she says they later requested permission to film the makeup artist while working.
Esther explained that while she is happy to provide makeup education, a client recording her techniques is a completely different service than performing a makeup application. She subsequently declined the request, and cancelled the booking entirely.
While no one from Patrick Ta’s camp has publicly confirmed Esther’s claims about the cancelled booking, BeautyTok has already formed its own opinions. Creators have been making videos connecting the dots, and once social media starts piecing together a puzzle, good luck getting them to stop!
Inspiration or Imitation?
The bigger conversation here is one that the beauty industry continues to struggle with. At what point does inspiration become imitation? Makeup artists have been inspiring one another for decades. Looks are recreated and reimagined constantly. That’s pretty common in the beauty community. But creators push back when they feel their ideas and contributions are being used without proper recognition.
Some users have defended Patrick Ta, arguing that no one owns a blush placement; others believe the similarities are too palpable to dismiss. Video after video has surfaced analyzing screenshots, comparing techniques, and debating who influenced whom. At this point, the internet jury appears to be split.
Whether you believe this is a misunderstanding, a coincidence, or something more, one thing is crystal clear: content creators have more power than ever before. The days when brands could “borrow” ideas without consequence are over. The creators are speaking up, and social media has made public accountability the new standard.
XOXO,
Your Beauty Bestie
