The convergence of Women’s History Month and Black History Month provides a powerful opportunity to recognize the contributions of Black women across all sectors. In the beauty industry, this means celebrating the innovation, resilience, and artistry of Black women entrepreneurs who are reshaping the landscape of skincare, haircare, makeup, and wellness. Despite facing significant systemic barriers to funding, these brands are not only thriving but also earning a permanent place in the routines of beauty enthusiasts and editors alike.
The challenges are stark. According to a report by the Harvard Kennedy School, only 2.4% of all venture capital funding goes to women-owned businesses. The numbers are even more discouraging for Black women, who received a mere 0.34% of venture capital in a 2021 study highlighted by the World Economic Forum. This disparity isn’t a reflection of the quality of these businesses, but rather a symptom of deeply ingrained inequalities within the financial system. As consumers increasingly prioritize brands that align with their values, supporting these businesses becomes even more crucial, particularly in a challenging economic climate.
At time.news, we recognize the importance of highlighting these achievements. We’ve spoken with beauty editors and contributors who regularly test and evaluate products, and have compiled a list of the Black women-owned brands they consistently return to. These aren’t just trendy picks; they’re products that deliver results and represent a commitment to quality and inclusivity.
A Style Writer’s Essential: Rose Ingleton Dark Spot Serum
Mecca Pryor, a style writer, considers Rose Ingleton’s Dark Spot Serum a non-negotiable part of her skincare routine. “This product is my move-to for dark spot treatment; I can’t live without it,” she says. The serum, formulated by Jamaican-born dermatologist Rose Ingleton, MD, focuses on addressing hyperpigmentation with a blend of botanical ingredients and medical-grade actives. Learn more about the Rose Ingleton Dark Spot Serum here.
Lip Care and Mascara Must-Haves
India Espy-Jones, a beauty editor, has a few staples she can’t leave home without. She’s a devoted fan of EADEM’s Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm, admitting to carrying multiple shades in her bag. “Whenever I’m out, it’s like playing Russian Roulette when digging my hand in my bag to see which one I randomly pick out (even though I secretly hope it’s ‘Boba Bounce’),” she shares. For a complete makeup look, Espy-Jones relies on PAT McGRATH LABS Dark Star Mascara. “Mascara is the one makeup product I use daily. After I curl my lashes, I reach for the Dark Star mascara whenever I want to look like Diana Ross (which is always). I’m a firm believer that wearing a good mascara is a complete makeup look in and of itself.”
Lymphatic Drainage at Home
Akili King, Senior Beauty & Style Editor, has embraced the practice of lymphatic drainage and found a convenient way to incorporate it into her self-care routine. “I’ve been really into lymphatic drainage these days, and the Oui The People Shape Shifter Massage Tool makes bringing that experience to my home that much easier!” she explains. “I love to apply my lotion and body oil and then go to work. It helps release tension, obtain my blood flowing, and depuff from head-to-toe. Highly recommend.” Find out more about the Oui The People Shape Shifter Massage Tool.
A Moisturizer for Melanin-Rich Skin
Cierra Black, a contributing writer, consistently praises EADEM’s Cloud Cushion Airy Brightening Moisturizer. “From the storytelling, packaging, and product quality itself, I will always sing EADEM’s praises,” she states. “Whereas the lip balms and calming mist are definitely of note, a product I’ve been loving is their moisturizer. I’ve written about this moisturizer before, but it is one of the top three in my rotation. I am typically a rich moisturizer girl—I like to feel the product on my skin sealing in the hydrating ingredients. What’s nice about this product is that it offers that deep-hydrating feeling without being too heavy, so it’s suitable for multiple skin types.”
Scent and Self-Affirmation
Brianna Heath, another contributing writer, has discovered a unique way to enhance her personal atmosphere. “I’m really invested in intentionally building my personal atmosphere to reflect my inner aura. Lately I’ve been loving Worthy by Moodeaux,” she shares. “I first picked it up because the name intrigued me. I liked the idea of a daily affirmation of my worthiness wrapped in a veil of sophisticated, vanilla gourmand scent with notes of white tea, musk, and amber. I get so many compliments whenever I wear it and each one reminds me to celebrate that I am always worthy.” Explore the Moodeaux Worthy Oil Perfume.
Luxurious Hydration for the Body
Stixx Matthews, a contributing writer, raves about the Oui The People Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss Oil. “This body oil wraps my body in such a luxurious, hydrating sheen, and the orange blossom scent is the cherry on top of the cake for the entire application experience.” Discover the Oui The People Hydrating Body Gloss Oil.
These brands represent a growing movement of Black women entrepreneurs who are challenging the status quo and creating products that cater to a diverse range of needs and preferences. As the beauty industry continues to evolve, their contributions will undoubtedly shape its future.
Looking ahead, the conversation around funding for Black women-owned businesses is expected to continue gaining momentum. Several organizations are actively working to address the disparities in venture capital allocation, and upcoming legislative initiatives may offer additional support. Stay tuned to time.news for further updates on this important topic.
What are your favorite Black women-owned beauty brands? Share your recommendations in the comments below.
