Black Beauty Pros You Should Know: America's "First Stylists"

Though they're still in the minority in the beauty industry, Black hairstylists and makeup artists are making major strides. Beautè Noire wants you to know who the movers and shakers are in the industry, so this week I'll be shouting out the top 10 Black Beauty Pros You Should Know!

Today, we're highlighting America's First Stylists, Johnny Wright and Ingrid Grimes-Myles. Whenever you've seen First Lady Michelle Obama turning heads with her glamorous hair and makeup, these two have been behind her fabulous looks. Meet the First Lady's glam Squad!

Johnny Wright - Hairstylist

Who He Is: Official Hairstylist to First Lady Michelle Obama

What You Should Know: Chicago native and former Frederic Fekkai stylist Johnny Wright first styled Michelle Obama's hair for her Ebony cover shoot in 2008. Mrs. O liked his work so much she called him back for more. Johnny cinched his position as Mrs. Obama's stylist after he styled her hair for the 2008 Democratic National Convention (girlfriend's hair was laid!). The rest is history!

What's Next: Wright is currently an Artistic Style Director with Soft Sheen-Carson, and has inked a deal to star in his own reality show.

Ingrid Grimes-Myles - Makeup Artist

Who She Is: Official Makeup Artist to First Lady Michelle Obama

What You Should Know: A veteran makeup artist, Grimes-Myles was the head makeup artist for local Chicago TV station WGN-TV prior to working with Michelle Obama, according to an article from the Chicago Sun Times. Grimes-Myles has been Michelle Obama's makeup artist for several years now, and has styled her for many of her most publicized appearances and photo-ops. Not only was her work seen around the world at the Inauguration of President Obama, but she also applied Mrs. O's makeup for her highly anticipated March 2009 Vogue cover shoot.

What's Next: More First Lady Glamour. She's pretty tight lipped, but I'm sure I'm not alone in hoping she'll let slip some of Mrs. O's fave beauty products!

Tomorrow: Hollywood Heavyweights Oscar James and Sam Fine!