The beauty industry has made (some) notable strides when it comes to diversity and inclusivity in the past few years, and Black-owned beauty brands are being highlighted now more than ever, from social media to shoppable roundups. But sadly, Black-owned products aren’t often readily available on the average drugstore shelf or at the local beauty store — having been historically overlooked, even still, at major retailers. Black-owned makeup and skincare brands have to keep getting public support, now that we’re well past the initial surge of black social-media squares. That’s where Sephora comes in: The mega-retailer has gotten ahead of the game in terms of curating exceptional Black-owned brands (that people of all backgrounds can enjoy), even before it was trendy.
Progress has been implemented, but we still have more work to do. In that spirit, we rounded up must-have beauty products from must-know Black-owned brands you won’t want to miss. These brands all have the softening, hydrating, and conditioning elements we crave, from nourishing skincare and fresh makeup to curl-friendly hair care. So, prepare your wallets: Sephora has you covered if you’re not sure where to start..
ROSE Ingleton MD Signature Moisturizer
Plenty of people use moisturizers with the general idea that they’re good, but without knowing exactly what they’re supposed to do (besides moisturize, of course). You can be sure you’re covered with this brand. This vegan formula combines peptides with vitamins and ceramides for visibly smoother, healthier-looking skin.
Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform®
Maybe you’ve heard your mom ranting about the importance of retinol since the time you were a little gal, and that’s for good reason. Retinol is one of those skin-critical ingredients that even professionals can’t argue with. This retinol and lactic acid serum help target a range of skincare concerns, from dark spots and lines to wrinkles and blemishes.
PAT McGRATH LABS Dark Star Volumizing Mascara
If you want photo-worthy eyelashes without any social filter, then this is the way to get that effect. Used by the pros, this gravity-defying mascara has a gel-hybrid formula designed for instant volume, length, and lift.
Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix Eye, Cheek & Lip Cream Pigment
Amplify your flush and accentuate your face shape with multipurpose makeup that (really) works for all skin tones. Crafted with skin-happy ingredients, it also adds vibrancy to your lips, eyes, and cheeks for up to 24 hours. Win-win.
Topicals Duo for Dry, Sensitive Skin & Discoloration
You might have seen Topicals trending on social media for the brand’s fun packaging — but did you know the Duo is their most popular product? This two-pack contains a brightening/clearing serum and a hydrating overnight mask to help your skin kickback against marks and dryness.
LYS Beauty Higher Standard Satin Matte Cream Blush
If you relish luxe things that are surprisingly affordable, say like a vintage designer sweater, then you’ll enjoy this rich-looking blush that won’t break the bank. With colors like pink cinnamon spice and deep berry plum, you’ll add a clean, satin-matte hue to your cheeks (or eyelids) with ease.
Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-exfoliating Scalp Scrub Shampoo
You know a product is good if it’s passed a clinical trial, and that’s exactly what happened with this scalp scrub. Shown to help increase scalp hydration, this naturally-derived product is designed to remove buildup and excess oils without drying out the hair.
adwoa beauty Baomint™ Mini Baomint Protect + Shine Oil Blend
This brand is setting out to make wash n’ go’s less challenging for kinky hair types, and this nourishing oil blend has become a must-have for those with coils, curls, and fros. Help invigorate the scalp, support growth, and add shine with pomegranate seed oil, grapeseed oil, and coconut oil.
BREAD BEAUTY SUPPLY Hair Oil Everyday Gloss
This one’s a go-to for fans of BREAD BEAUTY but still deserves more time in the spotlight. If you want silkier hair and a fragrance-free everyday shine, then this product is the one for you. Bonus: Kakadu plum helps curls feel smoother, softer, and glossier.
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