For an industry dominated by women, Papi Pookz must have had a dogged determination and targeted focus to even dream of making a name for himself as a male makeup artist. Of course, his journey has not been without thorns and obstacles. He has, however, resolved to bring his dreams to life regardless of the doubts, tearing down, bullying, and negative energy.
His love for makeup goes as far back as his high school days. He would wear makeup to school, and some of the students would bully him. Papi Pookz took all that in stride and kept his eyes on the prize. After high school, there was less bullying, but he had another problem to overcome: obesity. He needed to lose some weight for his health and looks, so he set to work, and he successfully shed 145 lbs.
His dream began to materialize gradually, and he started working within and outside his home city of Miami. Despite being a self-taught makeup artist, Papi Pookz has grown his brand independently and won the hearts of many who have made him their official makeup artist. He has worked in cities like New York and Los Angeles and has built a network of clients and friends all over the United States.
Papi Pookz’s interest in the makeup business was kindled by drag queens when he was young. Then his unique looks to rave music festivals and clubs drew some attention to him. He began to learn and practice, and his skills improved significantly. “I got better every day, and I started to feel a kind of joy from seeing my clients satisfied and happy. That’s why till today, I go above and beyond to ensure that my clients get the best service. I have been blessed with a ‘magic touch,’ and I am not hesitant to share it with the world,” he says.
Papi Pookz showcases his work on social media and has garnered a significant following of almost 40 thousand people on Instagram. He has also worked with celebrities like DJ Khaled and female rapper Leaf, and major fashion brands and music festivals all over the United States. When the coronavirus pandemic just broke out and everybody had to stay home, Papi Pookz wasn’t getting any jobs; so he adapted to the situation. Thanks to his graphics design background, he set to work and created a filter that people could apply to their filters and have their faces smoothened out.
The filter worked like a concealer, and within 24 hours of its release, more than 500,000 people had used it. It boosted his following, and it made him happy that he could make people happy from their homes. Since then, he has created many other filters with a variety of effects. Over the past few months, Papi Pookz has switched from being a physical makeup artist to a digital filter artist. His work makes him happy, and he says he doesn’t feel like he’s in a competition with anyone.
For a brand built on self-love and care, Papi Pookz has grown astronomically and has now set his sights on creating hair products, skin products, and makeup products. He has a lot planned, and he wants everyone to keep their fingers crossed.
Learn more about Papi Pookz on his official Instagram page.
