What's Happening?
In 2025, Black beauty brands are navigating a challenging market landscape, as highlighted by the experiences of several founders who received funding from Glossier's Beauty Grant Program. Despite initial success following the social justice movements
of 2020, many Black-owned beauty brands have struggled to maintain momentum. Founders like Rose Ingleton, Aasiyah Abdulsalam, and Vernon Yancy have received additional funding to support their businesses, but they face significant hurdles such as securing reliable manufacturing partners and managing over-expansion. The closure of brands like Ceylon and The Established, despite previous financial support, underscores the difficulties in sustaining growth in a volatile market.
Why It's Important?
The challenges faced by Black beauty brands highlight broader issues within the beauty industry, including the need for sustainable business practices and the importance of diversity initiatives. The struggle for funding and market presence among Black founders reflects systemic barriers that persist in the industry. The survival and growth of these brands are crucial not only for promoting diversity but also for driving innovation and inclusivity in beauty products. The ongoing support from companies like Glossier is vital, yet the pressure from political forces to reduce diversity efforts poses a risk to these initiatives.
What's Next?
For Black beauty brands to thrive, there is a need for a shift towards sustainable growth strategies and operational excellence. This includes focusing on core business fundamentals such as gross margins and customer retention. The industry may see a continued emphasis on building strong community connections and leveraging unique product innovations to capture market share. As these brands adapt, they may also influence broader industry practices, encouraging more inclusive and effective product development.
Beyond the Headlines
The experiences of Black beauty founders reveal deeper cultural and economic dynamics at play. The emphasis on 'proof over perception' suggests a move towards valuing tangible business success over media-driven narratives. This shift could lead to a more equitable industry landscape, where diverse founders are recognized for their contributions and innovation. Additionally, the focus on clinical testing for diverse skin types indicates a growing awareness of the need for inclusivity in product development.
