In a world where makeup artistry and beauty influencers reign supreme, some individuals have mastered the art and dedicated themselves to sharing their passion with others. Among them stands Kannikka Ahuja, a charismatic and talented makeup influencer whose journey of self-discovery and relentless pursuit of her dreams has touched the lives of countless individuals. In an exclusive interview with us, Kannikka Ahuja shares her experiences, challenges, and aspirations as she navigates the world of beauty and self-expression.
"I'm doing very well. Thank you so much for asking. I've absolutely loved the work I and my team are doing. We're switching up our content, and it's been so much fun. On the personal front, things are finally getting better, and I'd love to talk more about it once it's all settled," Kannikka shares with a smile, embodying the strength and resilience that have defined her journey.
Her path into the world of makeup influencing was far from conventional. As a child, Kannikka admits she was tomboyish and had little knowledge of makeup. However, as a teenager, something within her changed, and she deeply desired to learn the art of makeup. Embarking on this path of self-discovery, Kannikka started with self-makeup courses from skilled makeup artists in Delhi. But a pivotal moment after her separation propelled her to take a leap of faith and pursue her passion professionally. Kannikka flew to New York City to train at the prestigious Makeup Designory (MUD), setting the stage for her remarkable journey.
The true inspiration for Kannikka's foray into the world of makeup influencing came when she met a bride during her freelancing days. The bride's grandmother, impressed with Kannikka's work, remarked humorously that she couldn't see all those layers of makeup that Kannikka was charging for. This lighthearted exchange sparked an idea in Kannikka's mind – to share her passion for makeup on the internet and teach others the art she had come to love. Thus, the transformation of Kannikka Ahuja into a beauty content creator and influencer began.
"The moment someone from my online family messages me or comments on my posts that my videos and story tutorials have helped them learn makeup or debunked some makeup/skincare myths for them is when I feel the happiest about being a makeup influencer or, as I like to call it, a beauty content creator," Kannikka shares enthusiastically. Her joy lies not only in her creative expression but also in her positive impact on her audience.
However, being a makeup influencer comes with its own set of challenges. One of the significant hurdles that Kannikka and other content creators face is the ever-changing algorithm of social media platforms. The constant influx of new launches, trends, and viral products can be overwhelming, leading to a desire to accumulate more than necessary – a pitfall she warns against as it can become a toxic habit.
Kannikka shares some of her top makeup tips and hacks to offer her readers valuable insights. She emphasises the importance of skin preparation before makeup application to achieve a flawless finish. Waiting a minute between different skincare layers ensures optimal product absorption and prevents makeup from appearing patchy or pilling. These fundamental tips form the foundation of any successful makeup routine.
For those looking to establish a skincare or makeup routine, Kannikka provides her priority recommendations. She advises beginners to include a gentle cleanser, a Hyaluronic Acid serum to be applied on damp skin, a suitable moisturiser based on their skin type, and most importantly, SPF for daytime protection. In the realm of makeup, she suggests investing in essential products like concealer, cream blush, loose powder, kohl pencil, mascara, and creamy matte nude lipstick, all of which contribute to a versatile and polished look. And, of course, a brow pencil, as brows can make or break the overall appearance.
As someone who continues to draw inspiration from her peers, Kannikka shares that international makeup artists and influencers like Tati Westbrook, Nikkie Tutorials, and Rose Siard have played an influential role in her journey. Additionally, she expresses gratitude for Indian beauty creators like Shreya Jain, Malvika Sitlani, and Srishti Bhatia, who have inspired her growth and evolution in the field.
Looking towards the future, Kannikka has grand aspirations. "The biggest goal that I have for myself is to represent India globally; I'm manifesting it through this interview. I want to evolve the way India does makeup and sees beauty. And lastly, I want to make my parents proud of my achievements and success while being extremely down-to-earth and humble since that matters the most!" she declares with determination.
As our conversation with Kannikka Ahuja comes to a close, we are left inspired by her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and unwavering passion for makeup. Her success as a makeup influencer and beauty content creator stems from her exceptional skills and her genuine desire to empower and uplift others in their own beauty journeys. Kannikka's story is a testament to the transformative power of following one's heart and embracing the beauty within and around us.