Those with melanin-rich complexion tones have not always been welcome in the beauty business. Today, there are many Black-owned beauty firms that provide every shade of foundation and powder imaginable, from the lightest to the darkest tones.
Kierra Lanice Wray, celebrity and editorial makeup artist, states “I’m a dark-skinned Black woman. Growing up, I didn’t have foundation options that wouldn’t leave me looking ashy or would just not be right.”
Many Black entrepreneurs, thankfully, have made it their mission to create a more inclusive beauty arena for people with darker skin tones. Kim Baker, the proprietor of Glamazon Beauty, was in the same boat. Baker thinks there are still gaps in the representation and promotion of Black-owned beauty products, even though her firm is doing well. “I just want to be given an equal opportunity,” Baker adds.
Of course, we have to highlight beauty superstar Rinahha and how she transformed the cosmetics game by founding Fenty Beauty and releasing 40 distinct colors of foundation, prompting all mainstream cosmetic manufacturers to step up their efforts with shade diversity.
“As it pertains to Black-owned brands, I think it’s important that people support them, primarily because Black-owned brands are the solution to the problem, Wray says. “And, trying products created by those who know exactly what you’re going through is a major bonus,” Baker adds.
Get to know some of the best Black-owned makeup brands and some of their best products in this write-up. From foundations to bronzers, there’s something for everyone.
Beauty Bakerie
Cashmere Nicole, the founder of Beauty Bakerie, puts a whimsical spin on beauty with her range of products, which are all inspired by sweets. Lollipop liner, cake pop lippies, and a flour setting powder to help you “bake” your face are just a few of the whimsical cosmetics she offers.
Black Radiance
Black Radiance’s products were designed with women of color in mind, from sheer to vibrant colors. By providing a variety of products, the purpose is to uplift and support the community. On Amazon, the True Complexion Creme Contour Palette has received over 9,000 five-star reviews. The brand has started a campaign called My Shade Is Everything to raise awareness about the disparities that women of color face in the beauty industry.
Sacha Cosmetics
Sacha Cosmetics became a household name after releasing their classic setting powder. Because of its ability to prevent ashy tones and flashbacks, it immediately became a top-rated translucent powder for women of color. But don’t take our word for it; read the 3,800 positive Amazon reviews to see for yourself.
Fenty Beauty
When Rihanna’s cosmetic line first debuted, it set multiple records. Fenty Beauty’s inaugural gift to the world was 40 distinct foundations, and now the brand has it all, including eyeshadows, cream blushes, lip glosses, and (our personal favorite), a variety of shimmering highlighters—so you may shine brilliant like a diamond, anytime, anywhere!
Danessa Myricks Beauty
We adore beauty products that do double duty, and Danessa Myricks has produced a collection of necessities that are all multi-functional and can be used on a variety of skin tones. Isn’t it one of the most well-liked items? Colorfix 24-hour Cream is a one-of-a-kind hybrid cream that can be applied to the lips, eyes, or face. It also comes in a variety of colors and dries quickly.
Iman Cosmetics
In 1994, Iman Mohamed Abdulmajid, a famed model, launched Iman Cosmetics. The brand is known for its cheap solutions that cater to a wide spectrum of skin tones. With the brand’s Luxury Lip Shimmer gloss, you, too, can achieve a supermodel pout. Vitamin E, shea butter, and chamomile are among the hydrating components.
The Crayon Case
The Crayon Case, the viral beauty brand founded by Reynell Steward (Supa Cent), has turned into a creative and enjoyable makeup experience. “Her products are simple to apply, and if you’re on her email list and there’s a discount, you’re in for a treat!” says Nyssa Green, a makeup artist who has won Emmys for her work. “The ‘Box of Crayons’ palette contains the best colors and is perfect for beginners or novices.”
Niye Aniekan-Attang founded an all-inclusive, colourful, and cruelty-free beauty business after being inspired by childhood memories of her grandmother passing down her beauty regimens. Tropical Vibes Palette, the brand’s most popular palette, has a plethora of creamy and sparkly earthy tones that you’ll fall in love with.
Aishetu Fatima Dozie, the company’s founder, wanted to create a beloved makeup line that cared about how women felt from the inside out. As a result, she founded Bossy Cosmetics, a makeup collection that includes eyeshadow palettes, eyeliners, and lipsticks. Check out their best-selling eye shadow pallet, which includes a variety of matte, shimmer, and creamy long-lasting powders.
The Lip Bar
The cruelty-free and vegan items from The Lip Bar include bold lipsticks, lip glosses, eyeshadows, and more. Melissa Butler founded the company in her kitchen in 2012 with the goal of changing the beauty industry’s lack of diversity, inclusiveness, and chemical use. Butler aspires to rethink traditional beauty standards so that all women may feel confident in their own skin. We’re also crazy with the Vegan Liquid Matte Lipsticks!
Black Opal
Black Opal is a global makeup company that has been around for 25 years. The company was one of the pioneers in the attempt to broaden the scope of beauty and cosmetics. As Black Opal has grown over the years, it now provides a wider range of hues and solutions to address a variety of skin concerns, including hyperpigmentation. True Color Soft Velvet Finishing Powder gives a silky touch and works on all skin types, according to Amazon reviewers.
Loraine Dowdy, the company’s founder, quit the corporate sector in 2013 to start Coloured Rain. She was motivated to broaden the range of items and colors available to people of color. Coloured Raine products are meant to promote experimenting with vivid colors and powerful declarations of expression, according to Dowdy. So, for a dazzling look, add a few shades of the Metallic Matte Liquid Lipstick to your lipstick collection.
