September MUA Spotlight

Meet Rubia — The Artist Behind Seamless, Skin-First Artistry

by: The NJC Team ❤ | 3 min read

This month’s MUA Spotlight is dedicated to Rubia Shafique, a Melbourne-based makeup artist, mentor, and bridal specialist. With an artistry style rooted in flawless skin and approachable beauty, Rubia has built a reputation for her ability to make makeup look effortless yet transformative. From bridal clients to mentoring the next generation of artists, her passion is as inspiring as her perfected finishes.

Her Must-Have Essential

For Rubia, powder is non-negotiable. “The Velvet Finishing Powder — without a doubt. I’m genuinely obsessed with it. It locks everything in without looking cakey and gives that smooth, poreless finish my clients always compliment.” It’s this kind of reliable staple that allows her to focus on artistry while knowing the base will hold all day.

Primer Magic

When it comes to creating a flawless base, Rubia’s approach is about technique as much as product. “I love applying primer in soft, buffing motions with a synthetic brush and fingers — it helps melt the product into the skin for a seamless base. I also target different areas with different primers: mattifying through the T-zone, hydration around the outer face.” Her precision ensures every face gets exactly what it needs.

Powder as the Final Veil

Powder isn’t just a finishing step for Rubia — it’s what ties everything together. “I set the entire face once everything is blended, especially on combination or textured skin — it’s like the final veil. For under eyes or anywhere I want to lift, I use brightening powder. It’s especially important for my bridal clients because it photographs beautifully without flashback.”

Her Go-To Hacks

Even the best-prepped skin sometimes needs quick fixes. Rubia has mastered a few that keep makeup looking seamless:
“If I notice under-eye creasing, I take a fluffy eyeshadow brush with a touch of powder and buff it out — it smooths everything without adding more product. In colder months, I’ll mist before powder to avoid dryness but still get a perfected finish.”

A 2-Minute Routine for Busy Clients

Rubia believes that beauty should feel achievable, even on the busiest days. “Tinted moisturizer, brow gel, mascara, cream blush, and finishing powder — that’s all you need for a two-minute look. I love dabbing blush on the lips too, it instantly ties everything together.”

What’s Next for Rubia

Rubia is entering an exciting new chapter in her career. “I’ve just launched my first-of-its-kind online mentorship program for makeup artists, and it’s been so rewarding to guide others. I’m also booking bridal clients worldwide for 2026. You can find me on Instagram @rubia.sh — I’d love to connect with your audience there!”

At Nikkia Joy Cosmetics, we’re inspired by Rubia’s artistry and dedication. Her skin-first philosophy, clever techniques, and commitment to mentoring others embody the spirit of beauty as empowerment. We’re proud to support her journey and can’t wait to see what she creates next.

All images courtesy of @rubia.sh (Instagram)