Makeup With a Mission
From:
India-Jewel Jackson
160 days 13 hours 59 minutes ago
1. What is the inspiration behind creating this cosmetic line?
Nicole Paxson Cosmetics was developed in lieu of my struggle with the auto-immune illness, Lupus. The harsh butterfly rash that develops on the skin due to the disease was my inspiration for the butterfly logos/packaging. Ultimately, I wanted to develop a unique line of foundations (that couldn't be found elsewhere) that had maximum coverage capabilities, lightweight with the highest SPF-protection available, and glamour all mixed into one. I felt that if I needed products like this, then there are millions of people who do also.
2. What experience do you have with cosmetics?
I've been mixing my own cosmetic "concoctions", since the age of 12. But it wasn’t until my strenuous chemotherapy at 20-years of age, that I spent endless hours perfecting a formula that could fulfill my special needs. I applied my make-up on friends and family....then one day my mom said, "Hey, you should develop a line that is accessible to everyone."
3. What makes your cosmetic line stand out and make it different than others?
With maximum coverage for the most problematic of challenges in skincare and the highest SPF sun-protection available in a foundation line, Nicole Paxson Cosmetics are as unique as each butterfly they represent. Plus, it's the first line that incorporates all of these unique things, while staying focused on glamour. Each product was also developed with unique advantages: quick peak mirrors, hidden storage trays, convenient carrying pouches and fashionable, best of all.
4. What does the Nicole Paxson collection currently consist of?
Painted Lady Powder, Tropic Queen Bronzer, Monarch Creme Foundation, Mimosa Liquid Foundation, Zerene Pudding , Lotis Concealer. I also developed a crescent-shaped application brush.
5. How long did it take you to perfect this collection?
I spent over 1 1/2 years in-and-out of the lab. Most people just tell the chemists what they want and try it out when they get samples. I went to the development lab and just started creating; I had my hands in everything. I personally tested/tried the colors, textures, etc. with each of the chemists/technicians. I wanted everything perfect!
6. Why do you feel it is important to have the maximum amount of sun-protection in your products?
Due to my Lupus, I am extremely sun-sensitive, so personally I needed the highest protection. Today, it's becoming more and more important to protect ourselves from harmful UVA/UVB sun-rays. Most dermatologists recommend at least an SPF 15, for daily coverage. My products have 30 (+) SPF and you can still wear your favorite sun-protective moisturizer underneath. You can't find anything with this kind of coverage, texture across the board.
7. What is your favorite product from your collection?
I love all the of the products differently, because they all came out of a range of needs, but I definitely reach for the Mimosa Liquid Foundation every morning, because it always has the perfect amount of coverage for me. The best part of Nicole Paxson Cosmetics is that there is no demographic. It works for EVERYONE from young-fresh faced girls to mature-women. There is a diverse range of coverage also, so you can use the Painted Lady Powder or Tropic Queen Bronzer, when you have less to cover or conceal everything you've got with the Zerene Pudding. Plus, it comes in a multitude of shades from the most fair to the darkest of complexions. It's perfect for the face, body, skin, scars, tattoos, rosacea, acne, dark spots...you name it.
8. How would you go about perfecting the look of a flawless complexion?
I think it differs for everyone, depending on how much you want to conceal. The good part about my products is they are great on their own, but can also be layered- so that you feel covered and beautiful on your own terms.
9. What do you love about this profession you're in?
My favorite part of developing this line is that I get to make a difference in other people's lives. I have had so many people give to me in the past and I'm glad that I can give back by creating something that makes them feel protected, strong and beautiful.
10. Did you have any other career aspirations before you landed in the world of beauty?
I have always been an artist. Since I was a young girl, I've loved to be creative and develop- whether it was through paint, photography or a creative project, I am most fulfilled when I am expressing my creativity.
11. Do you have any desire to add products other than foundation and powders to your line?
Yes! I am actually in the process of planning additional colors and products to the already booming line assortment. I don't think that I will ever stop creating... I am definitely considering skincare as my next journey. I want Nicole
Paxson Cosmetics to be a beauty staple that make people change the way they view themselves. I want to make a difference at every level.
12. Where are your products sold?
All of the products are available online at: www.nicolepaxson.com. But for the future, you can expect to see them in various retail outlets.
13. How do you use your cosmetic line to help support the fight for a cure for Lupus and other skin disorders?
A percentage of the sales will go towards Lupus and skin disorder research. Also, I have contributed my products to numerous Lupus Foundations around the country, in support of finding a cure.
14. What advice do you have for those aspiring to enter the business of cosmetics?
I would say...don't let anyone tell you that you can’t do anything that you put your mind to- if you have a dream and you believe in it (despite what challenges you may face) your passion and perseverance will always make you successful, personally and professionally.
-India-Jewel Jackson
