Unfortunately, Black women once struggled to find shade matches and products that worked for them. In fact, the struggle became so intense that Black women decided to create what they needed. Historically, society has often overlooked the contributions of Black beauty inventions. Even worse, Black creatives have been discredited.
Black women have always been one step ahead of the beauty industry. Moreover, some Black women have created popular beauty products in their kitchens. When brands claimed it was too difficult or impossible to maintain inclusivity, Black women showed everyone otherwise.
Beauty moguls like Pat McGrath started with little but have contributed to today’s major trends. Rihanna is an excellent example of inclusivity with Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin. Olamide Olowe, the owner of Topicals, also created a brand that celebrates all skin types. That said, Black women continue to raise the bar.
According to Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, Black women contribute $7.5 million annually to the beauty industry. So, it’s only right that we show the brands created by us for us our support. Here are five Black beauty inventions you should spend your hard-earned coins on!
1. LABeautyologist No Drip Cleansing Cuffs ($25, thecoziclub.co)
Nothing is worse than the feeling of water dripping down your arms while washing your face. Not to mention, the water gets everywhere! In 2021, Nayamka Roberts-Smith launched the No Drip Cleansing Cuffs. These cuffs are extremely absorbent, leaving no room for water to run down your arms.
2. Black Girl Sunscreen ($8+, ulta.com)
Black women once navigated the skincare game without a sunscreen that works for them. Forced to go without or sport a white cast on their face, protecting our skin was difficult. Black Girl Sunscreen, created by Shontay Lundy in 2016, has changed the game.
This sunscreen protects melanated skin but also absorbs into the skin seamlessly. Lundy ensured that the formula moisturizes and nourishes, as other brands tend to dry out Black people’s skin. Black Girl Sunscreen has also added a matte formula, a spray, and a sunscreen lip gloss.
3. Grace Eleyae Slap Caps ($22+, graceeleyae.com)
Black women have to be incredibly particular in the headgear department. After all, the wrong fabric can turn a silk press into an afro! Thankfully, Grace Eleyae switched things up with her innovative creation, The Slap Cap. The caps are designed with satin lining to protect curls, silk presses, and braids. In addition, the caps feature an elastic band for a snug fit and a stylish aesthetic that makes outside wear seamless.
In addition, The Slap Cap, known as Grace Eleyae’s most popular product, can be worn during your sweatiest workouts to shield your strands. Do you live in a humid climate? Or worse, is it raining out? Throw on The Slap Cap to protect your hair from the added moisture.
4. Fenty Beauty, (fentybeauty.com)
Since 2017, Fenty Beauty has taken the beauty industry by storm. Founded by Rihanna, Fenty Beauty shook things up when they launched 40 foundation shades. This move was not only innovative, but also served as an example of how to be inclusive. As such, Fenty Beauty set a new standard in the industry, and other brands soon followed suit.
5. The Hair Shield ($30+, thehairshield.com)
For those who travel a lot or have a deep collection of wigs, you know the importance of protecting your bundles. This is where The Hair Shield comes into play. Launched in 2017 by Delanise Carter, the brand offers a variety of satin-lined carriers for your hair. Carter created the storage units to help beauty mavens who are tired of sorting through matted hair.
From wigs to extensions and tape-ins, The Hair Shield can protect your investment. The product is also offered in different colors and designs.
Black women continue to be a force in every way, especially in the beauty industry. The next time you purchase a beauty product, reach for a Black woman-owned and created offering.
What is your favorite Black-owned beauty product? Let us know in the comments below.
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