From Nurse to Beauty Mogul: Claudia Kriechbaumer's Bold Journey

Miami Beach, USA - Claudia Kriechbaumer’s journey from a dedicated nurse in the Mühlviertel to the owner of the Cambio Beautyacademy—a leading institution for make-up artists in Austria—is nothing short of inspirational. Established after Kriechbaumer honed her skills in Miami under the guidance of some of the industry’s most prestigious instructors, including the creative director of Chanel, the academy offers more than just technical training. It emphasizes mental fortitude and the importance of a „Dream Big“ mindset, essential traits for aspiring artists in a competitive field. However, not all was smooth sailing for Kriechbaumer; her qualifications were not recognized in Austria, leading her to confront substantial financial hurdles before launching her academy just six months after her return.

The Cambio Beautyacademy has become a lifeline for many, particularly mothers and working women seeking flexible educational opportunities in beauty. With locations in Linz, Vienna, Salzburg, Styria, and Munich, the academy promotes teamwork and hands-on experience, allowing students to gain invaluable exposure at high-profile events. Kriechbaumer’s thoughtful approach also extends to mental support for her students, recognizing that many grapple with self-worth issues. Living part-time in Cyprus, Kriechbaumer continues to expand the academy’s reach while emphasizing the balance of personal and professional growth.

Embracing the Power of Pink

In addition to her impactful work with young make-up artists, Kriechbaumer is also a proud supporter of the Österreichische Krebshilfe’s PINK RIBBON initiative, aimed at raising awareness for breast cancer. In line with this campaign, she offers tips for incorporating the color pink into make-up, a hue that symbolizes hope and joy but also demands confidence from its wearers. Pink’s vibrant aesthetic appeals particularly to women, many of whom have cherished this color since childhood.

Kriechbaumer explains that selecting the right shade of pink can vary based on skin tone—cool types should opt for cool pinks, while warm tones can choose warmer shades. When applied effectively, pink blush can brighten complexions, especially in lighter-haired individuals. However, she does caution against the challenges of glitter in make-up, recommending proper techniques such as using a special „glitter glue“ to keep shimmer in place during application.

The Intersection of Make-up and Mental Health

The multifaceted nature of make-up goes beyond aesthetics. Research highlights that applying make-up can significantly enhance one’s mental health, a perspective that resonates deeply with Kriechbaumer’s philosophy. As noted on Karyn Carlson’s site, studies reveal that for individuals dealing with anxiety or depression, the act of applying make-up can serve as a form of self-care. It fosters a sense of control over one’s appearance and can even lead to more positive social interactions.

Make-up facilitates self-expression and creativity; it allows individuals to explore and showcase their uniqueness. Kriechbaumer champions this view, integrating self-help techniques into her academy’s curriculum. She encourages students to engage with their beauty routines mindfully, transforming the application process into a meditative practice that uplifts mood and boosts self-esteem.

Ultimately, Claudia Kriechbaumer embodies the spirit of resilience and empowerment in the beauty industry. Through her academy and initiatives like PINK RIBBON, she not only fosters skills among her students but also nurtures growth and self-assurance, proving time and again that make-up can be a powerful tool for transformation.