Kevyn Aucoin

Kevyn Aucoin

Society today looks at beauty as being a step-by-step process. Magazines cram their pages full of beauty tips with a series of “never use this” and “always do that”. But, there was one man who disagreed with this outlook on beauty. His name was Kevyn Aucoin, a man who, during his life, taught the world that there was beauty in everyone. But most importantly, that beauty comes from within.

Kevyn was a makeup artist. In fact, Kevyn was one of the most, if not the most respected makeup artist in the entertainment world. Actresses like Julia Roberts ranging to models like Kiara Kabakuru all wanted Kevyn to make them look beautiful. And yet, he didn't limit his talent on only “A list” actresses. He loved all people, of all races and all ages, and wanted to share his makeup talents with anyone, whether they be an actress or a grocer. But, life wasn't always as sweet and successful for Kevyn.

Kevyn began his life on February 14, 1962 in Shreveport, Louisiana. A month later he was adopted by Thelma S. and Isidore A. Aucoin, in Lafayette, Louisiana. Kevyn experienced some extremely traumatic experiences in high school, which caused him to drop out. After he dropped out, he pursued his real dreams at a cosmetology school in New York in 1983. During his experiences in New York, Kevyn overcame his adolescent insecurities, and found out who he really was and what he truly stood for. Life, you might say, took a complete turn around after he became comfortable with himself. In fact, everything seemed to be going his way-which he rightly deserved. After only two years of working as a makeup artist, Kevyn had requests by the world's top actresses, and models, for Kevyn to do their makeup. To add to his resume, Kevyn also had best-selling books, T.V. appearances, and even his own magazine column.

If it isn't somewhat clear to you why this man is a hero, then let me explain a little further. Kevyn, though considered the best in his field of work, never thought himself better than anyone else. He was so focused on serving others that he rarely had time to think of himself. He changed countless women's lives by making them feel beautiful, outside and inside. He helped a rising music artist pursue his dreams and made them come true. He selflessly wrote three books, sharing all of his incredible beauty secrets with everyone. It has even been said that Kevyn could make even the meanest people lovely and lovable. Everyone who has come in contact with this man has mentioned his ability to know a person inside and out by simply talking with them for two minutes. He considered everyone a friend, and was a friend to everyone. Isn't that reason enough to call him a hero?

Unfortunately, the world lost a little color one Tuesday in May, 2002, when Kevyn Aucoin passed away. He was 40 years old and though he wouldn't let it show, suffered from a pituitary brain tumor. He died in New York. The very place that gave him life. Kevyn Aucoin, a man who burst with kindness, humility, and selflessness, encompasses the kind of person we should all strive to become. He truly had the ability to touch lives. So, the question is, what can we do, to help make the world as beautiful as Kevyn could?