Applying mascara or lipstick may seem routine for many, but for those with visual impairments or blindness, these simple acts present daily challenges without the aid of a mirror. We attended a specialized makeup workshop for blind and visually impaired women to explore their inspiring journeys. At 25, Lucy Edwards is a beauty YouTuber with over 400,000 global followers. No ordinary influencer, this British creator lost her sight eight years ago due to a rare disease. Today, she shares expert tips on perfecting a smoky eye or applying false eyelashes, delivering stunning and often amusing videos that promote a positive view of disability for those affected and beyond.
HandiCaPZero, a French association dedicated to enhancing daily autonomy for blind and visually impaired individuals, shares this mission—far from social media likes. Since 2013, they've partnered with Yves Rocher to host "Beauty Without a Mirror" workshops, teaching essential techniques like applying cream, removing makeup, foundation, and mascara. Over 300 women have benefited for free from these personalized sessions in Yves Rocher boutiques.
Video of the day:"Organizing makeup workshops in associations is good, but it's compartmentalized," explains Stéphanie Cuppini, HandiCaPZero's communication officer. "By hosting in stores, we promote true inclusion and normalization. The goal is an open shop where visually impaired women can get made up anytime, like anyone else—and return confidently for shopping or advice."
Marie Claire attended one such session.
Caroline, participating in today's "Beauty Without a Mirror" workshop at the Yves Rocher Champs-Élysées boutique, hides her challenges behind a polished appearance. Diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration at 13, she lost central vision overnight due to retinal degradation, seeing only blurry peripheral shapes, colors, and spots. Yet, she's a self-proclaimed beauty addict who wears makeup daily.
With a resilient spirit, she adapted her routine: "I choose practical, low-risk options in natural shades and easy textures to avoid mishaps," she shares. "There's always that fear of looking like a clown." For media appearances as a columnist, she seeks loved ones' approval, but "big mistakes are rare."
Relying on heightened memory and touch, Caroline applies makeup by landmarks: "I know exactly how much product, where, and how to apply it."
Even so, standardized cosmetic packaging poses hurdles—how to differentiate eyeshadow from blush? "I organize by category: pinks here, peaches there," she says. "It works, even in a rush." HandiCaPZero's Braille and large-print labels, developed from participant feedback, prevent mix-ups.
Braille and large-print labels © DR
Not everyone shares Caroline's passion. Tatiana, with retinal detachment since age 15, wore makeup sparingly for work. "I avoided highlighting my green eyes," she admits—until an Yves Rocher advisor at her first workshop encouraged her: "Your eyes aren't damaged; enhance them!"
Tatiana and Emmanuelle © DR
Now confident with mascara, eyebrows, and even gold eyeshadow, she tackles concealer today. "I can't see colors, so no green streaks?" worries Tatiana. Makeup artist Emmanuelle guides precisely on product amount and technique, yielding flawless results.
Nearby, Shainese, a first-timer with visually impaired clients, supports Caroline. "I was nervous about clumsiness or wrong words," she confesses, soon reassured: "Authenticity shines." She details highlighter application: "Smile to find cheekbone peaks, tap on the curve, blend upward." Caroline nails it instantly.
Beyond vanity, makeup fosters emotional breakthroughs. "Workshops evoke laughter, tears, realizations, and confidence boosts," says Stéphanie Cuppini. "Many rediscover femininity, feeling autonomous." A common refrain: "I think I'm beautiful"—words they rarely uttered before.
"Mastering makeup builds my self-confidence daily," adds Caroline, like therapy asserting her womanhood.
Shainese and Caroline © DR
"Beauty transcends makeup; it's accepting my natural self—a lifelong journey for all women," reflects Tatiana wisely.
Paused during COVID, "Beauty Without a Mirror" resumes in France: Nice Jean Médecin (Nov 9, 2021), Rennes Bastard (Nov 18, 2021), Paris Champs-Élysées (Dec 14, 2021).
Read: Blind Makeup by Véronique Barreau.
