Sierra Leone woman’s “makeup-a-thon” breaks 19-year-old world record

A makeup artist from Sierra Leone has broken a 19-year-old world record for the most cosmetic makeovers in 24 hours by one artist.

Mary Yongai, 26, completed 111 makeovers in total.

Not only did she exceed her own personal target of 100, but she smashed the previous world record of 96, which was set by Indonesia’s Martha Tilaar in 2005.

As per the rules for this record, each makeover requires the application of concealer, foundation, blush or bronzer, at least two colours of eye shadow, eye liner, mascara, lipstick or lip gloss, lip liner, and pressed or loose powder to finish.

On the day of her record attempt, which took place in the country’s capital Freetown, a large crowd – including several Sierra Leonean celebrities and ministers – gathered to cheer Mary on.

Throughout the 24 hours, she took just one 20-minute break.

Mary revealed that she did not eat anything, nor did she use the bathroom at any point. 

Relying on “the grace of God” to keep her going, she only consumed soft drinks, forgoing any other stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine.

Celebrations erupted around Mary after she finished the final makeover. Describing the hectic scenes, she said: “The crowd was too much. Even to get me out of the location was difficult. 

“People were celebrating me, and I felt so honoured. On our way out of the location the crowd was too much and I passed out, but when we got to the hotel room, I was feeling so blessed to attempt this record-breaking challenge.”

This is the second world record that's been set in Sierra Leone; the first was the largest Sampa dance, achieved in 2012 at the National Stadium in Freetown.

Mary decided to go after this Guinness World Records title after being inspired by Nigerian chef Hilda Baci’s record-breaking cook-a-thon.

She practised at home for many weeks, using her sisters and friends as models.

Becoming progressively faster over time, she then did a trial run, managing to complete 48 makeovers in eight hours. “This was a good start,” she recalled. “It gave me confidence that I would be able to break the record.”

Not only did Mary attempt this challenge for her own personal achievement, but she also did it influence others to pursue their own passions.

She said: “Achieving this record is a dream come true. As a young girl, trying to achieve what people think is impossible, I’m super proud of myself.”