Gloss Angeles Podcast Summary

Episode: The Inimitable Isamaya Ffrench on Her Well-Rounded Beauty Career, AI, and Creating
Release Date: June 20, 2025
Hosts: Kirbie Johnson and Sara Tan
Guest: Isamaya Ffrench, British Makeup Artist, Creative Director, and Beauty Innovator

Introduction

In this vibrant episode of Gloss Angeles, co-host Kirbie Johnson welcomes the illustrious British makeup artist and creative director, Isamaya Ffrench. The conversation delves deep into Isamaya's multifaceted career in the beauty industry, her innovative product line, and her perspectives on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) within beauty practices.

Isamaya's Journey into Beauty

Isamaya shares her unconventional path into the beauty industry, highlighting her artistic roots and initial ventures into face painting at children's parties.

• Early Beginnings:
  "[When] I was 19, my sister asked me if I could go and do some kids' face painting at her kids' school. Fate. And I was like, yeah, sure." (14:28)

• Education and Early Career:
  She studied product design at Central Saint Martins but left to support herself, leading her to various jobs before discovering her passion for makeup art.

• Breakthrough Moments:
  Turning her face painting skills into professional makeup artistry, Isamaya recounts her pivotal experience working with ID Magazine and subsequently with renowned brands like Tom Ford and MAC.
  "I was a makeup artist. And then I just started getting bookings off the back of that. And I did a lot of men's first." (17:31)

Founding Days Beauty

Isamaya discusses the creation of Days Beauty, a platform she launched to democratize beauty and provide space for underrepresented voices.

• Inspiration Behind the Brand:
  Recognizing the limitations of traditional beauty editorial spaces, Isamaya sought to create a more inclusive and diverse platform.
  "Beauty in an editorial space and in general was just dominated by, like, probably, like, five makeup artists... Instagram came and sort of changed that." (18:04)

• Mission and Vision:
  Days Beauty aims to explore beauty through various modern lenses, including AI and 3D design, fostering a community that embraces creativity and diversity.

Launching Her Own Brand

Transitioning from working with established brands, Isamaya founded her own beauty line during the lockdown, focusing on creativity and skincare-infused makeup.

• Brand Strategy and Evolution:
  "I didn't want it to look the same. I wanted to do lots of different iterations of beauty expression." (24:36)
  She emphasizes the importance of adaptability and creativity, launching collections that resonate with contemporary cultural movements.

• Signature Products:

  • Face Glaze: A clear gel that adds a glossy finish to eyes, cheeks, and lips, infused with hydrating ingredients like brown algae extract.
    "It's very silky. It's just beautiful. It's, like, glowy." (04:19)

  • Color Correcting Serums: Designed to address various skin concerns with sheer coverage, celebrating natural skin while providing corrective benefits.
    "I celebrate skin. That's always been my thing." (09:00)

  • Metal Lips: A modern take on lip products with unique shapes and metallic finishes, adding an edgy twist to everyday beauty routines.
    "How can we, like, push a really easy, everyday, like, lip product and make it just feel a bit, you know, cool and so metallic lips?" (34:06)

• Best-Selling Product:
  The Microbial Gel Primer has become a fan favorite, praised for its multifunctional benefits and skin-friendly ingredients.
  "It's a primer that's like, your sheet. Absolutely gorgeous." (32:28)

Challenges in Building a Brand

Isamaya candidly discusses the hurdles of establishing and scaling a beauty brand, particularly during a saturated market phase.

• Workload and Responsibilities:
  "I do everything. The campaign direction. I work really closely with a good friend of mine, Tiff, on the campaigns." (27:39)
  Managing creative and business aspects simultaneously presents significant challenges.

• Partnering with Sephora:
  Entering a major retailer like Sephora required navigating increased demand and aligning product development with broader market expectations.
  "They have been such an amazing partner... they just really love the product." (35:21)

Integrating AI in Beauty

The conversation shifts to the potential and pitfalls of using AI in the beauty industry, especially in product presentation and consumer interaction.

• AI Swatches Debate:
  Isamaya explores the idea of using AI to create arm swatches, balancing creativity with ethical considerations.
  "AI is a powerful creative tool. It's amazing." (39:27)
  However, concerns about environmental impact and job displacement lead her to pause its implementation until more sustainable methods are available.

• Balancing Innovation and Responsibility:
  She emphasizes the need for responsible AI usage, advocating for solutions that support creativity without compromising ethical standards.
  "What's the earth cost? What's the human cost?" (40:41)

Inspiration and Iconic Collaborations

Reflecting on her career, Isamaya highlights her collaborations with iconic figures and the lessons learned from each experience.

• Working with Rihanna:
  "When we did the skinny eyebrow, when we did the truth across her face... we had some really creative moments together." (46:25)
  Her work with Rihanna exemplifies her ability to blend creativity with the artist's vision seamlessly.

• Other Legends:
  Isamaya also mentions working with Cher and Madonna, drawing inspiration from their legendary status and unique styles.
  "Cher teaches me stuff, and it's... awesome." (47:42)

Advice for Aspiring Beauty Artists

Isamaya offers valuable insights for those looking to enter the beauty industry, emphasizing passion, adaptability, and authenticity.

• Follow Your Passion:
  "Whatever your passion is, follow your passion and be open-minded." (22:17)
  She encourages aspiring artists to pursue what they love, assuring that determination will pave the way for success.

• Embrace Creativity and Learning:
  Highlighting the importance of creativity, Isamaya advises embracing mistakes as learning opportunities and staying true to one's artistic vision.

Future Endeavors and Closing Remarks

Looking ahead, Isamaya discusses upcoming product launches, including highly anticipated eyeshadow palettes set to debut in August. She reiterates her commitment to building deeper connections with her audience and fostering a community grounded in genuine creativity and innovation.

• Upcoming Products:
  "We have the palettes... launching in August." (38:34)

• Final Thoughts:
  Isamaya emphasizes the importance of founder-led brands and invites listeners to engage with her brand directly for a more authentic experience.
  "Founders care. I hope you love these." (31:09)

Notable Quotes

• "I couldn't release any color cosmetics that weren't doing good things for your skin." — Isamaya Ffrench (14:07)
• "Beauty is so vast and personal and I've learned a huge amount." — Isamaya Ffrench (21:49)
• "Being in your right brain is so important for creatives." — Isamaya Ffrench (44:44)
• "Founders care. I hope it stands out in that way." — Isamaya Ffrench (29:48)

Where to Find Isamaya

Listeners interested in exploring Isamaya's products and following her creative journey can visit her website and social media channels:

• Website: isamaya.com
• Sephora: Available in-store and online
• Instagram:
  • Personal: @IsamayaFrench
  • Beauty Channel: @IsamayaBeautiful

Conclusion

This episode of Gloss Angeles offers an inspiring look into Isamaya Ffrench's dynamic career and her innovative approach to beauty. From her artistic beginnings to building a brand that harmonizes creativity with skincare, Isamaya provides invaluable insights and encouragement for both beauty enthusiasts and aspiring artists. Her thoughtful exploration of AI's role in beauty underscores the importance of balancing innovation with ethical responsibility, making this a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of beauty.