Step beyond conventional beauty as we spotlight lightworkers who revolutionized radiance.
– KEYS SOULCARE
There are visionaries whose impact transcends trends and sets new standards. Today, we highlight the brilliance of Black beauty pioneers whose innovation, talent, and determination have left an indelible mark. These individuals aren’t just making waves — they’re creating a seismic shift in the beauty industry, paving the way for a more inclusive and representative industry. From redefining beauty standards to launching groundbreaking products, we’re celebrating the brilliance that has and continues to shape and transform the beauty landscape.
1. NANCY TWINE, FOUNDER OF BRIOGEO
Meet Nancy Twine, the financial whiz turned hair care maven behind Briogeo. Armed with a passion for clean hair care, Nancy disrupted the industry, creating products that transform your tresses while embracing the beauty in diversity. She’s not just changing hair; she’s changing the game.
2. JIHAN FORBES, DIGITAL EDITOR, ALLURE.COM
Jihan Forbes, the digital enchantress at Allure.com, is rewriting the beauty rulebook. With a knack for amplifying voices and breaking beauty molds, Jihan’s digital domain isn’t just about trends; it’s about rewriting the narrative to include everyone.
3. TEMBE DENTON-HURST, WRITER, THE STRATEGIST AT NEW YORK MAGAZINE
Tembe Denton-Hurst, the literary luminary at The Strategist, is our guide through the beauty revolution. Her written words are more than advice; they’re a journey into a world where authenticity meets representation. Tembe went on to make another splash in the publishing world with her debut novel Homebodies, which centers on a Black, queer woman finding her way through love, career, and living her purpose.
4. JACKIE AINA, YOUTUBE MAKEUP, AND BEAUTY GURU
Jackie Aina, the reigning queen of YouTube glam, isn’t just applying makeup; she’s making beauty history. With a subscriber army and a mission for inclusivity, Jackie’s channel isn’t just a tutorial — it’s a celebration of beauty in all its shades and forms.
5. SARAH SPENCER WASHINGTON, FOUNDER OF APEX NEWS AND HAIR COMPANY
Sarah Spencer Washington is the powerhouse who laid the foundations of Apex News and Hair Company. Sarah, a mogul with a heart of gold, didn’t just build a business; she created a legacy of empowerment and philanthropy, leaving an indelible mark on beauty and beyond.
6. PAT MCGRATH, MAKEUP ARTIST AND FOUNDER OF PAT MCGRATH LABS
Pat McGrath, the indomitable “Mother of Makeup,” isn’t just applying pigment; she’s painting the future of beauty. With a brand valued at over a billion, Pat isn’t just disrupting norms; she’s redefining them with every stroke of genius.
7. DANESSA MYRICKS, MAKEUP ARTIST
Danessa Myricks, the makeup maestro behind Danessa Myricks Beauty, isn’t just creating products; she’s crafting a revolution. With a commitment to diversity, Danessa’s brand celebrates individuality, artistry, and unapologetic self-expression.
8. JANELL STEPHENS, FOUNDER OF CAMILLE ROSE NATURALS
Step into the world of Janell Stephens, the botanical virtuoso behind Camille Rose Naturals. With a passion for natural hair care, Janell is curating an experience that celebrates the beauty of curls, coils, and kinks.
9. VERONICA WEBB, MODEL AND BEAUTY ENTREPRENEUR
Veronica Webb is a trailblazing model and beauty entrepreneur. Veronica isn’t just a face; she’s a force challenging the status quo. She was the first black supermodel to win an exclusive contract for a major cosmetics company, reshaping beauty standards with ventures into the beauty realm.
10. SHARMADEAN REID, FOUNDER OF THE STACK WORLD
Sharmadean Reid is innovating the future of beauty. The tech visionary isn’t just connecting beauty professionals with clients; she’s weaving a digital tapestry that redefines how we experience beauty services. With platforms like BeautyStack and the Stack World, Sharmadean aims to advance gender equality by boosting the global GDP through the empowerment and growth of the women’s economy.
Which beauty pioneer’s story ignited a spark of inspiration within you? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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