When it comes to beauty products, it’s no secret that women of color have faced limited options when compared to their lighter-skinned counterparts. But what might be news is the considerable amount of beauty products that disproportionately expose Black women to poisonous chemicals and serious health risks.
According to the Environmental Work Group, a staggering 75% of mainstream products marketed to Black women are considered toxic. This means that one in every 12 beauty products for black women contains harmful components like lye, formaldehyde, parabens, and other known carcinogens which increase the risk of breast cancer and uterine cancer among postmenopausal Black women by 60%, while white women only experience an 8% risk.
What’s more, the Black Pound has reported that multi-ethnic consumers in the UK spend about 25% more on beauty products compared to other consumers. The statistics highlight the obvious purchasing power of individuals of color and their strong interest in beauty products, but the clean beauty industry has yet to cater to them properly.
The good news is that Black-owned, e-commerce platforms like BLK + GRN are playing a crucial role in the advocacy against the harmful effects of dangerous synthetic ingredients. They curate only all-natural products made by Black women for women of color. And thankfully today, they are joined by more trailblazers who are creating healthy product alternatives without artificial, harmful additives.
Ahead is a roundup of Black-owned, non-toxic beauty brands that are bridging the race gap in skincare, hair, makeup, and nail care. Not only are they embracing clean, eco-friendly ingredients and establishing stronger ethical practices, but they are inclusive and safe for everyone.
Black-Owned Clean Beauty Marketplaces
Pretty Well Beauty
Founder Jazmin Alvarez of Pretty Well Beauty, is all about organic beauty and wellness. She carefully selects partners based on their ingredients and sourcing practices, and every brand featured on the platform follows clean and sustainable operations.
CVTD
An online boutique that handpicks indie beauty brands, CVTD offers non-toxic and cruelty-free makeup and skincare.
Non-Toxic Hair Products for Textured Hair
Oyin Handmade
Baltimore-based Oyin Handmade specializes in hair and body care products that are made from natural, organic, food-grade ingredients, perfect for imparting nutrition to dry curls and coils.
Briogeo
An exceptional hair care collection that focuses on cleanliness and high performance, Briogeo is a leader in strict natural and ethical sourcing.
Sienna Naturals
The main goal of 13-year-old Sienna Naturals, a hair care company co-founded by Hannah Diop and award-winning actor, writer, and producer Issa Rae, is to prioritize fixing hair problems from the root, starting with the scalp. Their focus is using gentle ingredients that are free of harsh synthetics, good for your hair and the environment.
2 Girls with Curls
2 Girls With Curls is an incredible line of hair care products categorically designed for curly hair. What makes the brand special is its unwavering commitment to quality. All of their products are crafted with natural ingredients and are completely plant-based. They also prioritize being kind to our furry friends, ensuring that their products are cruelty-free.
Canviiy
Canviiy is a scalp care brand that uses botanical ingredients to offer solutions for scalp irritation. Their products are designed to soothe, nourish and protect.
