Makeup has the ability to transform.  Most often used to accentuate a woman’s natural beauty, it can also be a medium for pure artistry and creative expression. The external metamorphosis that occurs when a woman dons a daring red lip or a glistening natural-hued gloss grabs your attention, but the change that occurs on the inside can be just as powerful, and even more enduring.  At Madison Kai, makeup is not just a fashion statement, but a bold and declarative representation of the unending strength and confidence of a woman.

​

For years, I was unable to wear makeup at all.  I suffer with eczema and finding a brand without harsh chemicals that caused me severe skin irritation was always a challenge.  In addition, like many mocha-hued women, finding brands with colors that complimented my skin tone or that offered a light, hydrating finish with a desirable amount of coverage was also nearly impossible.

 

I felt invisible to the beauty industry. 

​

But, that all changed in a very surprising way…

​

Intrigued by the viral success of several social media makeup mavens, my daughter became transfixed with tutorials and before and after videos online. As her interest grew, simply watching the videos was not enough.  Her natural curiosity led her to begin experimenting with mixing various ingredients to create her own product blends with me right by her side.  What was initially just an opportunity for mother-daughter bonding became the impetus for the brand.  The freedom to create unique shades, and to do so using formulas containing only non-toxic, all-natural ingredients, offered endless possibilities and a creative euphoria unlike anything I had ever experienced.

​

As I began to wear the shades I was creating, not only were they the perfect pop of color for my outfits, I realized that each one was a mood, in and of itself.  If I was feeling sexy, I went for deep red. If I was feeling fun and vibrant, a bright pink.  And if my mood for the day was more relaxed and subdued, a calm earth-tone usually did the trick.  Each was the perfect outward expression for what I was feeling on the inside.  I noticed when I wore them, I had a little extra bounce in my step, and my morning self pep-talks in the bathroom mirror turned me into my own “hype-woman.” More than ever, I knew I wanted others to have this same experience – to realize that everything you already have is enough and that true beauty doesn’t conceal imperfections but is derived from them.

​

I always say - Madison Kai was born in my kitchen, but has always lived in the belly of my soul.