11 Black-Owned Beauty Brands to Celebrate Black History Month and Beyond
For Black women like myself, the beauty industry has always been nuanced. Non-Black-owned brands miss the mark to support our unique hair and skin needs. Meanwhile, you might have to go digging to find one that can.
Thankfully, things have drastically changed since how they were less than 10 years ago. Now, I have an entire roster of places I can confidently shop, online and in-store. To celebrate the beauty products that make me feel beautiful this Black History Month, here are 11 proud Black-owned brands that will never disappoint.
Afro Unicorn Magical Tresses
Even one decade ago, it was rare to see haircare brands made for Black girls in the stores. Sure, you could buy Suave Kids or Aveeno Kids. But when the industry never puts you at the standard, it's exciting to discover something created with you in mind.
April Showers created the vibrant, youthful, mom-approved brand Afro Unicorn Magical Tresses to keep your child's hair healthy and radiant. The best part? It's no more expensive than the usual brands on the shelf and smells equally delicious. It's something I wish I had in the early 2000s.
Black Radiance
Speaking of beauty brands who made their way to local stores, Black Radiance has been a part of my makeup journey for years. In a world where most foundations didn't go past tan, Black Radiance encourages you to "love your shade of beauty."
The brand offers a combination of complexions and undertones you don't usually find. They also have colors that flatter tan and deep skin—no more frosted lips.
Black Girl Sunscreen
Even if you have more fair skin, there is a chance your sunscreen will leave a white cast. Imagine what it's like when you have a darker tone. I'm shuddering thinking about it.
Thankfully, Black Girl Sunscreen came to save the day. It blends flawlessly into your skin for boosted hydration and protection from UV rays. Even though it says "Black Girl" in the name, know that the brand works wonderfully on any race and ethnicity.
- Disney's The Little Mermaid & Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30: $18.99
- Make It Pop Sungloss Lip Gloss With SPF: $10.99
Also read about: How Black Girl Sunscreen CEO Shontay Lundy Is Changing the Narrative Around Suncare
Briogeo
I loved Briogeo for years, unaware that it is Black-owned. And suddenly, everything made sense! It was one of the few haircare companies that lived up to its hydrating claims and did an unbelievable job removing product build-up. It's one of the best brands you can buy at Sephora for its value, and they have a wide range of products.
- Don't Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Hair Mask: $39
- Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Scalp and Hair Oil: $32
Danessa Myricks Beauty
If you want luxury, go to Danessa Myricks Beauty. Every product that I've used has had the butteriest texture that I've had with makeup. You can tell by the classic packaging that Danessa is a pro—it beautifully blends modernity with nostalgia.
- Yummy Skin Soothing Serum Skin Tint Foundation With Peptides and Ceramides: $36
- Vision Flush Glow Hyper Radiant Liquid Highlighter: $20
EADEM
EADEM is changing the world with its innovative technology. Founders Marie Kouadio Amouzame and Alice Lin Glover met at Google—and decided to pair up and use their genius to create Smart Melanin Beauty. It's formulated with science-backed ingredients and heritage botanicals to directly improve skin of color.
Fenty Beauty
Okay, who doesn't love Rihanna? It's impossible. The multi-hyphenate changed the industry with her Caribbean-influenced R&B-pop sound. Then, she became a fashion icon. And then, she revolutionized the makeup world by normalizing an expansive shade range and becoming one of the first celebrities to own a high-quality brand.
I've worn Fenty Beauty since it first hit stores in 2017. I've grown with the brand and never saw the quality dip. I've used some of the same products as my staples for years.
Juvia's Place
Juvia's Place has been another favorite of mine forever. Like Black Radiance, the brand offers high-quality makeup for an affordable price. It's still the only Black-owned brand in the drugstore section I can find in Ulta Beauty.
These products are perfect for anyone who wants more eclectic looks. They have tons of colorful shades with a rich color payoff. It's also one of the brands with great dupes for your luxury favorites—the Blushed Liquid Blush has replaced my need for that viral Dior baby pink powder and the Rare Beauty offering.
- Blushed Liquid Blush: $11.70
- Culture 2 Eyeshadow Palette: On Sale for $24.70
Also read about: 7 Liquid Blush to Achieve a Hydrating Flush of Color Across Your Cheeks
Kinky-Curly
Kinky-Curly has been an OG haircare brand since the 2000s. Their website is a testament to that—Essence called them one of the hottest brands in their early 2009 issue. And they've stood the test of time to 2024.
You can still find their foolproof formulas in Wal-Mart and Target. It smells like childhood while making you feel confident and fresh with healthy, juicy curls.
Topicals
Topicals were a lifesaver to my acne and eczema-prone skin. I am convinced that their two bestsellers, Faded and Like Butter, have something magical in them. It's the only product I've used (and I've tried everything, including prescription creams) to salvage my skin, but being consistent with those two items kept me hydrated and blemish-free.
They've grown substantially since those days. Now, you can purchase lip balm, under-eye patches and more that I also love. And all of them have rave reviews.
World of Chris Collins
Fragrance is such a big part of who a person is. Wearing World of Chris Collins says that you have taste, a lush taste at that. These perfumes are a hidden gem at Sephora. They have robust notes, sturdy packaging, and a nuanced history behind their design. Plus, they have great names, like Harlem Nights and Lost in Paradise.
We just celebrated Lunar New Year! Read HERE to revisit the most gorgeously packaged beauty products we found to celebrate the Chinese holiday.