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Blush Duo Controversy: Credit Stolen?
12 Jun
Summary
- A popular makeup artist is accused of appropriating a viral technique.
- The disputed technique is called transitional blush, popularized by Ngozi Edeme.
- Edeme claims Ta's company sought credit for her technique in paid content.
A recent controversy in the beauty industry centers on Patrick Ta's launch of the Transition Blurring Blush Duo. Online observers have pointed out that Ta's method appears to mimic a technique popularized by celebrity makeup artist Ngozi Edeme, known as "transitional blush." This layered application technique creates a seamless gradient effect, particularly noted on deeper skin tones.
Edeme, while not claiming to have invented the style, is widely credited with bringing it into vogue. Criticism intensified when Ta's company filed a trademark for "transition blush" with the USPTO, though the application is still pending. Trademark attorney Ticora Davis explained that trademark rights are not always awarded to the first user or coiner of a phrase.
This incident reflects a larger pattern of erasure experienced by Black women in various fields. Davis noted that contributions from the African diaspora are often not tied to products or services, leading to a loss of credit. Executive consultant Ayanna Castro also highlighted that Black women are more prone to having their ideas taken.
Edeme stated that the situation impacts her career and has made her more confident. She expressed concerns about the lack of consent and the audacity of Ta's team to ask her to credit him for her own technique. She also discussed the lack of "grace" afforded to Black women in professional settings and advised those facing similar erasure to speak up and stand firm.
