Ibukun's Face Card
- Drew Townsel
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
Ibukun Odeleye is the epitome of beauty and brains. Originally from Pickerington, Ohio, Ibukun is a multi-hyphenate beauty creator who studies Philosophy and Political Science at the University of Chicago (genius – we know). After graduating, she plans to pursue a career in law.
Blending creativity with intellectual curiosity, she’s passionate about reading, writing, fashion, and engaging in thoughtful discourse, whether through public speaking, political debate, or her Substack essays. Did we mention she has a face card that never declines? We spoke with Ibukun about all things beauty, from her inspirations to her must-have products.
When did you first get into beauty?
I have been doing my own hair since I was ten years old, but I didn’t start experimenting with makeup until I got to college. To me, doing my own makeup is more than a beauty process; I have always been really good at sketching and painting so learning to do my own makeup came naturally and allowed me to turn myself into my own canvas. I actually wasn’t allowed to wear makeup in high school, so when I got to college, YouTube and Pinterest were instrumental in helping me develop my own taste and experiment with my look.
What was the first ever beauty product that you were obsessed with?
The Estée Lauder Double Wear foundation was the first high-end beauty product I received, and to this day, the shade 7W1 deep spice is the best shade match I’ve ever found in a foundation.
Who are your current beauty inspirations in culture?
I saw someone say that if you want to find your perfect look, find a celebrity with similar features to you, and then figure out who does their makeup. I take a lot of makeup inspiration from Ayra Starr, Tems, and Renee Downer. Kayla Perez, MakeupbyChelsea, and Pat McGrath are some of my favorite makeup artists. I actually haven’t found my signature just yet, but all of these women have inspired me as I experiment!
Let's get into some product recs! If you could only bring three beauty products with you on a two-month trip, what would they be and why (the must-haves)?
Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum
As a hyperpigmentation prone girly, this is a must-have.
Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen
This gives the perfect coverage between foundation and a skin-like skin tint. Plus, it’s acne safe!
Juvia's Place Luxe Lip Liners
These have the best shade range for deep skin, and they’re super long wear.
Perfect! Now, name a few underrated beauty products that people should know about.
Laura Mercier Blurred Matte Tinted Moisturizer
This one has a great shade range, and it finishes like skin!
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Grip Primer
This product is amazing and it works just like the Milk or Maybelline primers for a more affordable price. It also has skincare ingredients built in which is a huge plus!
Now give us one Ibukun exclusive beauty tip!
Practice without pressure: whether it be your hair or makeup, if you really want to get good at doing them, you need to practice on days where you’re maybe not going anywhere or don’t have any major events!
