Catching Up With Nikita Chaithoo: NYX Makeup Masterclass Host
Her incredible artistry and humble personality have built a following of over 280,000. She's also hosted her first Makeup Masterclass with NYX Professional Makeup!
Nikita's content is made for everyone from beginners to professionals, across all skin tones and types. We sat down to reflect on her journey over the years and to celebrate how far she has come!
No Sad Cowboys: Congratulations on hosting your first NYX Professional Makeup masterclass here in Aotearoa, New Zealand!
How did the experience feel for you?
Nikita: It honestly felt so surreal. NYX was the first brand I was exposed to back in makeup school, so getting to host a class with them felt like such a full-circle moment!
It was actually on my vision board to host a masterclass one day, so seeing it come to life was beyond special. The energy in the room was incredible and reminded me why I love what I do – I’m so grateful for the experience!
NSC: Let’s rewind a little. How did your journey with content creation and makeup artistry begin?
Nikita: My journey started back in 2019 when I began creating content and posting dramatic makeup looks online. At first, it was just for fun and a way to get a few makeup clients on the side while I was figuring out what I actually wanted to do with my life.
I was always told that makeup wasn’t a “real” job and that I needed something more stable, but deep down I knew it fulfilled me beyond a monetary level. What started as a creative outlet slowly turned into my biggest passion and eventually, the career I’d always dreamed of!
NSC: NYX has a reputation for boldness and inclusivity.
What excites you most about working with them, and how do you see your artistry aligning with the brand?
Nikita: NYX have always encouraged people to express themselves through makeup, no matter their skill level or background and that’s something I really connect with.
My artistry has always been about pushing boundaries, celebrating individuality, and helping people feel confident in their own skin. NYX gives artists like me the freedom to experiment, have fun, and be unapologetically ourselves.
Collaborating with a brand that truly shares those same values and passion for self-expression immediately felt like the perfect match.
“I was told that makeup wasn’t a real job.
[Now] it’s the career I’d always dreamed of.” – Nikita
NSC: Hosting a class is a whole different energy than filming content.
What did you learn about yourself as a teacher and an artist through the experience?
Nikita: Hosting a class is such a different experience from creating content online, it’s more personal, interactive, and vulnerable in the best way. I learned that I really enjoy connecting with people in real time!
Teaching reminded me how much I’ve grown since starting my journey and how rewarding it is to inspire others to trust their creativity. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, but in doing so, it reignited my passion for makeup in a whole new way! I left feeling inspired and fulfilled.
NSC: You’re often in high pressure situations, like doing a bride’s glam for Chai Studios or doing a masterclass in front of 40 people.
How do you stay confident and keep a steady hand?
Nikita: Being in high-pressure situations definitely comes with the job, but I’ve learned to stay grounded by focusing on the moment rather than the pressure.
No matter the setting, I remind myself that I’m there because my clients or the brand trusts me and because I truly love what I do. I also prepare as much as possible beforehand, so when it’s time to perform and get on the tools, I can just flow.
Trusting my skills and remembering why I started helps me stay confident and steady every time!
NSC: We know it’s a hard question, but what’s the most helpful makeup tip you have under your belt?
Nikita: That’s such a hard one, but I’d say my most helpful makeup tip is to focus on skin prep. Your makeup will only look as good as the base underneath!
The NYX Plump Right Back Primer is one of my faves, it gives the skin that hydrated, bouncy look that makes every product blend seamlessly. I also love using the NYX Matte Setting Spray between layers to really melt everything together and lock it in all day.
“I want to give more education for POC, because representation and understanding different skin tones is so important.” – Nikita
NSC: Do you see more masterclasses or in-person events in your future? What’s next on your list of creative goals? Give us the tea!
Nikita: Absolutely! Hosting my first masterclass made me realise how much I love connecting with people in person, so there will definitely be more classes and events in the future.
I want to keep creating spaces where people can learn, feel inspired, and build confidence through makeup. I also want to give more education on makeup techniques for POC, because representation and understanding different skin tones is so important.
Beyond that, I’d love to collaborate with brands that align with my artistry and maybe take my classes international one day. There’s still so much I want to do!
Nikita proves that if you lead with passion and integrity, all of the treats will follow. We’re so proud to have her as part of the No Sad Cowboys crew and can’t wait to see what she achieves next!
To see more of Nikita, visit her on social media or check out her talent page.
