The February 2022 issue of British Vogue celebrates a new wave of African models, as fashion embraces a truly global vision of beauty. But it’s not just models who are deserving of the spotlight, but African creatives and entrepreneurs, too, particularly in the world of beauty. Below, we select seven of the best African beauty brands you need to know about.
A Complexion Company
Drawing on Africa’s rich history and wealth of nourishing ingredients, A Complexion Company is a wellness brand designed for women of colour. Founded by Nomshado Baca, its Organic African Wellness Superpowder is a powerful supplement designed to promote healthy nail, skin and hair growth, as well as bolster energy levels and concentration, boost your mood and even reduce PMS symptoms. What’s not to love?
Mented Cosmetics
In search of the perfect nude lipstick, KJ Miller and Amanda E Johnson decided if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself. The result? Mented Cosmetics, a go-to make-up and skincare destination for those looking to meet their skin tone match.
Malée
Fusing beauty and self-care, Malée is a luxury fragrance, bath and body care brand, founded by Zeze Oriaikhi-Sao. Inspired by generations of African healing rituals, the brand uses 100 per cent plant-based ingredients as a way of honouring the body according to longstanding beauty traditions.
African Botanics
African Botanics is a luxury body and skincare brand built around the rich benefits of plants. Sustainably sourcing its ingredients from South Africa’s Fynbos region, each product is designed to protect and nourish the skin from daily aggressors.
Huddah Cosmetics
Rising beauty influencer Huddah Monroe founded her make-up line in 2016. With an emphasis on bold lipsticks and high-shine lip glosses, Huddah Cosmetics is for the free-spirited woman who dares to be different.
Liha
Inspired by traditional Nigerian oils, but with a quintessentially British twist, Liha is a body and skincare brand founded by university friends Liha Okunniwa and Abi Oyepitan. Using rich ingredients such as ivory shea butter and idan oil, it’s the ultimate in luxury self-care.
Juvia’s Place
After struggling to find a product to suit her skin tone, Chichi Eburu decided to take matters into her own hands by launching Juvia’s Place. Inspired by the rich colours and beauty techniques of her African heritage, Juvia’s Place offers a smorgasbord of products for anyone wishing to have fun with make-up.
This was originally published on Vogue UK.
