Today we’d like to introduce you to Ebony Jean
Hi Ebony, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
While competing in pageants in 2016, I went public with my alopecia story. I was diagnosed with alopecia universalis, or complete body hair loss, at age 4, and experienced a lot of adversity during childhood. While in high school, I was taught how to draw eyebrows from my mom and eldest sister. Unknowingly, this commenced my passion for makeup artistry and became a fun, new way to express my creativity. After graduating from high school in 2008, I began to take makeup seriously, by learning from beauty videos on YouTube and perfecting my craft over time. In addition, I worked in retail sales for nearly 14 years. The intended goal was to work for a beauty company. That came to fruition and I was blessed with opportunities at ULTA Beauty, Lancôme, and Sephora. This was a great experience and motivated me to further my career in makeup artistry. Also, showing my community that beauty comes in different forms.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road was not smooth, but character and strength were built through adversity. Living with alopecia areata is not easy, especially as a child. Next to hair loss, I’ve dealt with other health issues, therefore being hospitalized through my youth. Alopecia areata affected my livelihood; where it became difficult to make friends, affected my self-esteem, and struggled with the harsh criticism of peers and some adults. There were days I disliked looking at myself in the mirror. But having faith in God changed my perspective, for I am ‘fearfully and wonderfully made in His image’, and overcoming the impossible. With the love and support of my family, I conquered.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Next to alopecia advocacy, I am a beauty content creator on social media. While on Capitol Hill in 2016, I removed my wig for the first time. The release of my story inspired me so much, that I started a YouTube channel in 2017 – a place where beauty meets advocacy. I use my social platforms to educate, inspire, and encourage. Since 2017, I’ve shared my story through makeup artistry, skincare, wig styling, and specialize in drawing eyebrows. Over time, I’ve received partnerships with brands and companies such as Makeup Geek Cosmetics, IT Cosmetics, Eli Lilly, Hyper Skincare, Palmer’s Skincare, Moramode Hair, and Jostens, to name a few. But people mainly know me for my advocacy. September is Alopecia Awareness Month, a special time for my community. Many of us on social media use our platforms to educate, while uplifting one another. This helped me discover healing and empowerment. Over time, I’ve traveled to Washington D.C. with the alopecia areata community; connecting with Legislators including Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, who also has alopecia areata. What I am most proud of; is the boldness and confidence I’ve gained. Overcoming my obstacles is what made me stronger. There was a time when I could not talk about hair loss because I was afraid. From childhood forward, many people shamed me for my appearance. But I refuse to let the opinions and insecurities of others shape how I view myself. Hair does not define any of us and beauty comes from within. What sets me apart is my look. Some think that I wear my bald stylistically; when in reality, I am embracing my difference. Losing hair is tough to experience, but I cannot control what I cannot change. By choosing to live my best life, I will be unapologetically me.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Practicing gratitude – it is easy to complain, and not every day is sunshine. From day one, I was taught that it’s not about what you go through, but how you go through it. All of us have to deal with the storms of life; it is inevitable. But one can either complain or change their perspective and see what can be learned. Our situations are also for someone else, so that we can be a blessing and help them overcome. I am thankful for life and the lessons that helped me grow. Being grateful doesn’t mean that things are perfect, it means that you find beauty in everyday, accept situations and learn to handle them with grace.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/__ebonyjean
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ebonyjean
Image Credits
Personal Photo: Q11 Photography, Detroit, MI
