Roxanne Sylvia: I’m Redefining Beauty, One Woman at a Time
I’ve always believed that beauty is more than skin-deep—it’s confidence, culture, and courage all rolled into one. From founding Roxx Beauty, MakeupbyRoxx, and Sithara Weddings to working with women across Singapore, Malaysia, and beyond, my mission has never changed: to help women feel unstoppable in their skin. Every product I create, every masterclass I teach, and every campaign I launch is rooted in the belief that representation matters and that every woman deserves to see herself reflected in the beauty world. For me, this isn’t just business—it’s a movement to celebrate individuality, honor heritage, and empower women to rise.
What inspired you to start your beauty brands?
I started my beauty brands because I saw a gap in products and services that truly understood the unique needs of women living in humid climates, especially Asian women. I wanted to create makeup that wasn’t just beautiful on the outside but also high-performance, long-lasting, and empowering. My journey began with my love for makeup artistry, but it quickly grew into a mission to make every woman feel confident, celebrated, and seen.
What does “beauty beyond skin-deep” mean to you?
It’s about embracing the whole person. Their story, their culture, their individuality, and not just focusing on surface-level aesthetics. Makeup can be a powerful tool for self-expression, but true beauty radiates from confidence, self-love, and knowing your worth. Roxx Beauty and Makeupbyroxx aims to enhance what’s already there, not mask it.
Why is it important to represent different cultures in the beauty industry?
Representation shapes perception. When women see their skin tones, features, and heritage reflected in beauty campaigns and product lines, it sends a message that they belong. For South Asian women especially, representation is still catching up, and I’m committed to being part of the change, celebrating cultural nuances, traditional beauty rituals, and the diversity within our communities.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an entrepreneur?
Balancing creativity with the realities of running a business is a constant challenge. From managing cash flow to building the right team, there have been moments where I’ve had to make tough calls. Another challenge is educating the market. Helping people understand why quality, performance, and cultural representation matter in beauty products.
How do you help other women build their businesses?
I mentor women who are starting out in the beauty industry, sharing not just technical skills but also the business and branding strategies that can help them succeed. Through collaborations, training programs, and networking opportunities, I create pathways for women to step into entrepreneurship with confidence.
How has social media helped your brands grow and empower others?
Social media has been my stage, my classroom, and my community all rolled into one. It’s allowed me to share educational content, showcase real customer results, and connect directly with women around the world. It’s also been a platform to amplify voices, share success stories, and break beauty stereotypes.
How do you create spaces for women to grow and become independent through your work?
Whether it’s through my masterclasses, makeup school programs, or collaborative events, I focus on creating supportive, skill-building environments. These spaces aren’t just about learning makeup, they’re about building confidence, networking with like-minded women, and exploring income-generating opportunities in the beauty space.
How do you make sure South Asian beauty and culture are represented authentically?
I draw from my own heritage and the experiences of the women around me. From shade development to campaign styling, I ensure the representation is rooted in real culture, not just aesthetic trends. That means respecting traditions, highlighting diversity within South Asia, and involving South Asian talent in the creative process.
Can you share a moment when someone felt more confident because of your products or services?
One of my Brides messaged me after her wedding saying she had never felt more beautiful. Not because the makeup changed her, but because it felt like her, just elevated. She told me she could see herself in the mirror and feel proud, and that’s exactly why I do what I do.
What’s next for you in empowering women and celebrating culture?
I’m expanding my beauty education programs to reach more women globally, especially in regions where opportunities for professional beauty training are limited. I’m also working on more culturally inclusive product lines that speak directly to South Asian skin tones and climates, while continuing to build platforms that celebrate our heritage with pride.
