“The PF profile is a curated edit where we interview your favourite beauty enthusiasts along with key industry professionals that are seasoned on all things health, beauty and wellness related. We speak to key women who we believe have valuable knowledge to offer to a wider audience, whilst shedding light on their beauty journey.”
Introducing London based DJ Keyrah who is growing from strength to strength as she joins the line-up of new generation of female DJ’s worldwide. Keyrah’s sets showcase a magnitude of genres that range from hip-hop to jazz which create a whirlwind that sonically sets her apart from her counterparts. The PF community welcomed her set earlier on in the year during the first lockdown where she provided a one-hour long set for “An Evening With Paradise Files”. Keyrah possessed an energy which translated through her drive that steadily allowed her to become the DJ that should be on your radar. We deep dive into a conversation with Keyrah on her current perspective of the industry and opening up on her relationship with self-love and beauty.
All photographs by Keyrah.
How were you able to find career motivation this year?
I think 2020 has proven difficult for many of us. Lockdown meant that many creatives were forced into finding new ways of showcase their talents, which initially was quite refreshing. For me this came in the form of Live Streams, Guest Mixes and Remixes/edits. It felt good to still be able to what I loved from the comfort of my own home. As time has gone on, I’ve found it increasingly harder to remain inspired especially as I find that there’s only so much you do virtually as DJ. I think it’s important to remind yourself that many of us across the world are in the same boat, and that we shouldn’t force innovation
When it comes to DJ’ing, what changes do you want to see happen for women?
I’d like female DJ’s to be taken more seriously. The world of social media is both a blessing and a curse and whilst it allows for space to build a platform, it also allows others to build their own perception of me. I’m sure I speak on behalf of many female DJ’s when I say that my love for music is genuine and my passion for sharing that music with the world is just as equal. I’m not sure why those things remain so questionable within this industry simply because of my gender? I’m just as deserving as the next man.
What is your earliest beauty memory?
It would probably have to be my Mum plaiting my hair every night before bed, or her letting me paint her face with lipstick and eyeshadows.
How has your idea of beauty and self-care changed this year?
I’m conflicted in a sense. Having spent the first half of the year indoors I think I’ve learnt to brush off some of society’s ridiculous expectations (such as having silky smooth legs 24/7). Saying that, I’ve also spent endless amounts of money on skincare from all over the world. All in all I think it’s been nice to take some time to pamper myself, whether that be a through a face mask or a yoga session. I think it’s always important to have some “me” time.
When do you feel most confident in your beauty?
In all honesty, I feel most confident when natural. I love being fresh faced, accompanied by my curls (when they want to co-operate). I’m not much of make-up person so my skincare regimen is essentially my bible.
What do you find is a mood booster for you?
At the beginning of this year I decided to take up Yoga which I found an enormously beneficial stress reliever. I also find conversations with friends or loved ones as a good way to take my mind off things. And of course music is a saving grace, though that kind of goes without saying.
What is your day and night, skincare regime?
So this year I’ve had to completely rebuild my skincare routine from scratch as I suffered from quite bad acne during quarantine. This was something that I’d never experienced before so naturally I became a part time skincare enthusiast.
Double cleansing has changed my life and it will change yours too (for the better), I like to use the Purito From Green Cleansing Oil to start off with. Korean Skincare is something I’ve delved into this year and it’s not something I regret! Next up I use the Skin Smoothie Cleanser from Nolaskinsentials, it’s black owned and leaves my skin feeling revitalised which is a double win. Next I tone with the By Wishtrend Mandalic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water, for a gentle chemical exfoliation. The next step is dependant on how my skin is feeling, if it feels a little congested I’ll opt for the Drunk Elephant T.L.C Framboos Glycolic Night Serum. I still have some light acne scarring so if I’m focused on that I’ll go for a Vitamin C based product. The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Serum did a really good job of clearing up any major leftover pigmentation. To finish I lock everything in with Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence and Youth To The People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream.
What is your hair situation in the morning?
My haircare routine is ever evolving, mostly dependant on the mood of my hair lol. Recently I’ve been using the Queen Of The Nile Hair Repair Mask from Retro Rich Company. I like to leave this on overnight after shampooing to retain maximum moisture. Their Empress Chebe Hair Butter is also a really good moisturiser and Retro Rich is black owned (another bonus!). After that I tend to use the Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner to try and maintain some order.
What’s next for you, personally and professionally?
Personally and professionally I think I still have a lot of reflection to do. This year has been one for the books and has defiantly shifted my perspective on things. I aim to refine my craft slightly and push out the content that I solely enjoy to produce. This industry can leave you constantly comparing yourself to others and asking if you’re doing the right thing. I think I’ve learnt to trust in myself a lot more.
What do you hope for the future?
I hope the clubs re-open, (I’m dying to play to a real crowd). I hope Boris and his mates are evicted from No.10. I hope the world becomes a slightly more harmonious place to live in, and I hope we all continue to strive past the bullshit.
