Last year, beauty blogger NikkieTutorials posted a video called "The Power Of Makeup." The idea was simple: she'd do glam makeup on half of her face, while leaving the other half bare. Unbeknownst to her, the video would go on to garner over 34 million views — and inspire many more conversations.
At first, Nikkie's video might look like any other makeup tutorial, but it had a deeper purpose. "I feel like... lately, it's almost a crime to love doing your makeup... Because, nowadays, when you say you love makeup, you either do it because you want to look good for boys, you do it because you're insecure, or you do it because you don't love yourself," she said in the video. "I just want people to know that makeup is fun... There are no rules to makeup. It's there for days when you just wanna look hella good."
With that in mind, check out nine major beauty influencers with and without their signature makeup, ahead. It's not about comparing the two, it's about celebrating makeup for what it is: empowering, exciting, and most of all: fun.
Manny, who recently starred in a campaign for Maybelline, often posts before-and-after photos with hilarious captions like, "Find a man who can do both." We're right there with you, Manny.
Photo: via @mannymua733.
Fans of Nicole Guerriero know that the beauty vlogger loves a good highlighter, liquid lipstick, and pair of falsies...
Photo: via @nicoleguerriero.
But she often goes makeup-free too — top knot and impeccable brows still going strong.
Photo: via @nicoleguerriero.
Baby bangs, fierce brows, and terracotta eyes and cheeks? We don't know about you, but we're seriously loving this look on fashion and beauty vlogger, Stephanie Villa.
Photo: via @SoothingSista.
And her off-duty look is just as cool. (Can we get those frames? Thanks.)
Photo: via @SoothingSista.
This Netherlands-based blogger loves to accentuate her eyes with falsies and a bold swipe of liner.
Photo: via @cheeseandxalwo.
And can you blame her? Check out that gaze...
Photo: via @cheeseandxalwo.
Bretman is 19-years-old and already slaying the beauty game. Case in point: This monochromatic pink makeup look.
Photo: via @mannymua733.
But, sadly, there will always be haters. After receiving negative comments online, Rock posted two makeup-free selfies and a perfect self-loving clap back: "Since bitches think I'll somehow turn ugly [without] makeup or contacts... like uhm honey kill that thought ???"
Photo: via @mannymua733.
This Canada-born, U.K. YouTuber is known for her minimal makeup aesthetic. Most days, Lalonde opts for a touch of tinted moisturizer, a vibrant lip shade, and defined brows.
Photo: via @esteelalonde.
In an Instagram post, Lalonde rocked her bare face while clutching five jars pickled veggies — because why the hell not?
Photo: via @esteelalonde.
Makeup artist and beauty vlogger Tanya Burr is known for her stunning makeup tutorials. She's tried just about every technique —from glitter creases to intense smoky eyes — and pulls inspiration from celebrities like Khloe Kardashian and Taylor Swift.
Photo: via @mannymua733.
And she's diligent about her skin care routine — which is clearly working. Can you say #flawless?
Photo: via @mannymua733.
Starr loves transforming himself with wigs, scarves, and of course, makeup. In a recent video, he gave an old friend a surprise makeover, proving that beauty has the power to lift people's spirits.
Photo: via @mannymua733.
We fell in love with Ingrid Nilsen after discovering her series of "Get Ready With Me" videos. Since then we've kept close tabs on what looks and products she's using.
Photo: via @mannymua733.
On a recent trip to NYC, Ingrid explored the city without a speck of makeup on. One constant? That huge smile.
Photo: via @mannymua733.
And, the video that started it all. "If you want to go with that super-sharp contour for the day, do it," she said in the video. "If you want to go for a red lip and bold eyes, do it!" Amen, Nikkie, amen.
Photo: via @mannymua733.
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