It’s no secret that Indian beauty influencers are no longer just “local stars.” From Instagram grids to global red carpets, influencers going global are shining brighter than ever, and honestly, it’s about time! Makeup, skincare, and lifestyle content is travelling far beyond borders, and the new-age beauty gurus from India are at the forefront of this revolution.
Ankush & Mrunal From Desi Favourites to Global Faces
Once upon a time, a boy picking up an eyeliner brush was met with raised eyebrows. Fast forward to today, and Ankush Bahuguna is rewriting that script with style, humour, and a lot of highlighter. India’s first mainstream male beauty creator, Ankush, has turned “Wing It With Ankush” into a viral series where he doesn’t just give people makeovers, but conversations that sparkle with honesty. And now? He’s hitting the global stage—Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez tapped him for their fragrance launch. A desi lad representing India at an international beauty event? Iconic.
On the other hand, if Instagram had a rainbow filter personified, it would be Mrunal Panchal Sharma. A proud member of the Asia Sephora Squad and the face behind Mrucha Beauty, she’s all about skincare hacks, makeup experiments, and giving her followers a slice of her life. Her collaborations with international brands like Smashbox and Eucerin show just how global her influence has become. Watching her balance travel, tutorials, and brand-building feels like seeing your older cousin live the dream life.
The Squad Gets Bigger
Of course, the desi glow-up doesn’t stop there. Komal Pandey, with her bold, editorial fashion-meets-beauty content, has already been recognised by international style platforms. Meanwhile, Shreya Jain — one of the OG YouTube beauty gurus — has consistently collaborated with brands outside India, proving that early hustlers now reap global rewards.
Why This Glow Up Matters
Here’s the thing: beauty has often been dictated by Western standards. But with Indian creators stepping onto global stages, the narrative is shifting. Our influencers aren’t just selling lipsticks or serums; they’re showcasing South Asian skin tones, traditions, and individuality to the world. Personally, I love this cultural exchange. It’s refreshing to see someone with desi features fronting campaigns that once had no space for us.
At the end of the day, this isn’t just about followers and brand deals. It’s about representation, relatability, and the fact that finally, the global beauty industry is taking notes from our desi playbook. Glow up? More like influencers going global!