From the sunlit streets of Hollywood, Florida to the buzzing beauty scene of Atlanta, Justin Douglas has crafted more than just show-stopping glam—he’s curated a legacy rooted in creativity, confidence, and connection. A true artist in every sense, Justin’s journey began behind the lens, but it was his transition to makeup that truly ignited his purpose. Merging the worlds of art, storytelling, and transformation, his signature “soft glam with a pop” style is not just a technique—it’s a statement. Through every stroke, shoot, and soundbite, Justin is rewriting the rules of beauty and building a name that resonates far beyond the chair.
From South Florida to Atlanta: Crafting a Beauty Legacy”
Your journey from Hollywood, Florida, to becoming one of Atlanta’s top makeup artists is inspiring. What motivated you to pursue makeup artistry, and how did your early experiences shape your unique approach to beauty?
I’ve always been drawn to art. As a kid growing up in Hollywood, Florida, I spent hours sketching and creating, it was my escape and my foundation. Eventually, that creative eye led me to photography, and I began helping my mother with her content, from YouTube https://youtu.be/flsi-WZjITU?si=Bo1w74I7s0OKssS1to photoshoots. One of those early moments; even before I picked up a makeup brush; was seeing a photo I took featured in Essence Magazine back in 2013. That experience opened my eyes to the power of visuals and storytelling.
Makeup felt like the next evolution of that. It allowed me to merge my love for art with transformation and emotion. Those early years; watching my mom, studying beauty,https://thejustindouglas.com/ and capturing moments, shaped how I see people. My approach today is deeply personal, rooted in enhancing what’s already there and honoring the story behind every face.
Soft Glam with a Pop: Defining Your Signature Style. You’ve coined the term “soft glam with a pop” to describe your aesthetic. Can you share how this style developed and what it represents about your artistic vision?
JUSTIN: “Soft glam with a pop” is more than a look, it’s a feeling. I’ve always been drawn to beauty that enhances your natural features but still turns heads. There’s always a moment in my work https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13422218/that catches your eye, a shimmer, a shape, a tone you weren’t expecting. And underneath it all, there’s always a layer of sex appeal.
Since I started, my techniques have evolved right along with me. My style has gotten sharper, more intentional, and more elevated, but that signature balance of softness, confidence, and bold detail has always remained. That’s what makes me.
Motivational Mondays: Uplifting Through Authenticity
Motivational Mondays has become a platform for inspiration and empowerment. What inspired you to start this series, and how do you hope it impacts your audience?
JUSTIN: I started Motivational Mondays https://thejustindouglas.com/motivational-mondays-justin-douglas because I wanted more, for myself, for my future, and for my family. I was at a point in my career where I knew I had something deeper to offer beyond glam. I wanted to shift my trajectory and use my voice to uplift others along the way.
The series became a space where I could speak honestly about the real side of the beauty industry, personal growth, and navigating life as a creative. Whether you’re a fellow artist or someone just trying to push through the week, I want each episode to feel like a reset, something real, relatable, and rooted in purpose. If someone walks away feeling seen, inspired, or simply reminded of their worth, then I’ve done what I came to do.
Navigating Challenges: Resilience in the Beauty Industry”
The beauty industry can be both rewarding and challenging. Can you discuss a significant obstacle you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame it to continue growing professionally?
In this industry, your talent gets you noticed, but your professionalism https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=0451c88ea934734a&hl=en-US&kgmid=%2Fg%2F11xd7rv4tj&q=The%20Justin%20Douglas&shndl=30&source=sh%2Fx%2Floc%2Fact%2Fm4%2F3keeps you working. Over the past few years, I’ve faced situations that tested my patience, my boundaries, and my ego. But I’ve always chosen to respond, not react.
I pride myself on keeping a clean reputation, even in moments of conflict or chaos. Sometimes that means staying silent when it’s easier to speak out, or choosing grace when you’ve been met with anything but. Those moments have made me stronger and more grounded in my purpose.
What’s helped me overcome it all is staying focused on the bigger picture: my legacy my growth, and the future I’m building. Every challenge has shaped me, not just as an artist, but as a leader.
Empowering Others: Advice for Aspiring Artists”
As someone who has built a successful career in makeup artistry, what advice would you give to aspiring makeup artists looking to break into the industry, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds?
My biggest advice? Stay focused and don’t lose hope. This industry can be overwhelming, especially when you come from an underrepresented background, but your path is valid, and your timing is divine.
Be patient with your growth. Reflect often, but never doubt your potential. And most importantly, invest in your craft. https://youtu.be/lXrXge9kG7M?si=N0fhHs-HEtEvKTA9
I still use some of the same lights, cameras, and equipment I started with over eight years ago. You don’t need everything to be perfect to get started, you just need the will to begin.
Greatness doesn’t wait. So don’t wait to be great, start now, start with what you have, and build from there.
Beyond the Brush: Exploring New Creative Ventures”
In addition to makeup artistry, you’ve ventured into music and motivational speaking. How do these creative outlets complement your work in beauty, and what can we expect from you in the future?
Music has always been a huge part of who I am. Back in 2019, I released my very first single, “I Can Do Both,” https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/g/11fp32qx48&hl=en-US&q=I+Can+Do+Both&shndl=17&source=sh/x/kp/osrp/m5/3&kgs=53df46884be3c18d#ebo=0and to this day, people still tell me how much they love it. That moment was a declaration, that I’m not limited to one lane. I’m a multidimensional artist.https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/g/11f2b55_g8&hl=en-US&q=Justin+Douglas&shndl=17&source=sh/x/kp/osrp/m5/3&kgs=2e4f596fb6e395b7
Now, I’m working on a brand-new single that will tie directly into my Motivational Mondays series. It’s being crafted as the official theme song, and it represents everything the series stands for, growth, self-worth, and the power of your voice.These creative outlets don’t compete with my work in beauty, they amplify it. Whether I’m holding a brush or a mic, it’s all about connection and impact. What can you expect from me next? A deeper expansion of my artistry, more beauty, more music, more purpose. I’m evolving, and I’m bringing my audience with me. People will “4ever”remember my name as The Justin Douglas.
Justin Douglas is more than a makeup artist—he’s a movement. With every face he enhances, every lyric he pens, and every word of encouragement he shares, he’s inspiring a new generation of creatives to lead with passion, integrity, and purpose. As he continues to blend beauty with boldness across every platform, one thing is certain: this is just the beginning for Justin Douglas. His legacy isn’t just in the looks—it’s in the lives he touches along the way.
Photo Credits📸: Ragan Bridges
Hair Stylist: Xiamara Hoskins
Makeup Artist: Justin Douglas
Wardrobe Stylist: Julian Rashard Lark
Creative Director: Julian Rashard Lark
Shirt By: Express
Suite By: Express
Shoes By: Polo By Ralph Lauren At Macy’s
Accessories By: REVEL Privé
Watch By: Seiko Watches
Earrings By: Macy’s
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