Introduction: The Influence of Black Beauty Culture in Today’s Trends

Beauty is more than just makeup—it’s a reflection of culture, history, and self-expression. Over the years, Black beauty trends have shaped the industry, from the bold editorial looks of the '90s to the natural skin-first aesthetic dominating social media today. But despite the undeniable impact of Black beauty culture, there’s been a noticeable shift in how it’s recognized.

At one point, it seemed like the industry was making progress toward true inclusivity—more Black influencers in campaigns, better shade ranges, and real representation. But recently, there’s been a regression into performative inclusivity, where brands include diversity in marketing but don’t offer the same opportunities, pay, or long-term investment in Black creators.

For beauty lovers of all backgrounds, widening perspectives means understanding where current trends come from. Many of today’s viral aesthetics—clean girl beauty, editorial glam, bold lip combinations—are deeply rooted in Black beauty culture. Yet, too often, these looks are repackaged by white creators and paid forward to them at higher rates.

This post is about recognizing, celebrating, and amplifying the Black beauty creators who continue to elevate the industry, while also providing insights for anyone—influencers, beauty lovers, and brands—who want to truly understand and support authentic beauty culture.

The Legacy & Power of Black Beauty in Today’s Trends

Many of the most celebrated beauty trends today have deep roots in Black culture, yet their origins are often overlooked. From editorial runways to everyday beauty routines, Black beauty has continuously shaped the industry with innovation, artistry, and timeless elegance.

• The "clean girl" aesthetic—A reflection of the minimalist, skincare-first routines that Black women have perfected for generations.

• High-shine lip gloss—A signature of the ‘90s hip-hop and R&B beauty era, defining bold and effortless glamour.

• Graphic eyeliner and bold eye looks—First pioneered by Black editorial models and musicians, including the iconic Grace Jones and Aaliyah.

• Sleek buns and sculpted edges—A look perfected within Black communities long before it was rebranded as the "model-off-duty" style.

Luxury Beauty Essentials to Achieve These Iconic Looks

If you are looking to embrace and celebrate these timeless trends, here are a few must-have beauty products that deliver the same flawless results:

• For the perfect glossy lip: Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb or MAC LipGlass

• For precision eyeliner looks: Pat McGrath Labs Perma Precision Liner

• For sleek edges and polished buns: Fenty Beauty Edge Styling Tool and This Edge Control

• For a radiant, skin-first glow: Try this viral blurring powder

Black beauty has always been synonymous with luxury, creativity, and cultural influence. As these trends continue to be celebrated, it is essential to recognize and honor their origins, ensuring that Black beauty remains at the forefront of industry innovation.

It’s not about excluding others—it’s about giving credit where it’s due and ensuring that the voices behind these trends are also benefiting from the opportunities and financial rewards.

Black beauty culture has always been luxury, has always been innovative, and has always been influential. It’s time for the industry to fully recognize that without appropriation or performativity.

11 Black Beauty Influencers Who Are Defining the Industry

Diversifying the voices you follow and engage with on social media is a meaningful way to contribute to greater equity in the beauty industry. These creators are not only shaping trends but redefining the standards of beauty, artistry, and inclusivity. Their influence extends far beyond content—it is driving meaningful change and setting the foundation for a more representative and innovative beauty landscape.

• @VividlyKafi - (Me) A beauty expert and content creator offering luxury beauty insights, skincare expertise, and with a grounded honest perspective, beauty reviews and demonstrations.

• @TheEditorial Nail - showcases highly creative and artistic nail designs. Her avant-garde style pushes the boundaries of nail art editorial beauty industry.

• @jaleesajaikaran – Pro MUA sharing insider knowledge on the beauty industry. Jaleesa Jaikaran has a vibrant platform showcasing her expertise as a professional makeup artist. Her content heavily emphasizes beauty, skincare, and makeup techniques, reflecting her deep passion for the industry.

• @styleandbeautydoc – beauty, and skincare, offering a unique blend of professional expertise and relatable advice. If you're looking for a source of authentic and empowering content that’s funny and relatable.

• @cocoaswatches – A must-follow for anyone seeking accurate, high-quality swatches on deep skin tones. With a commitment to true color representation, this page ensures that beauty lovers can confidently shop for products that complement melanin-rich skin.

• @enigivensunday – Where luxury meets effortless beauty. Her content seamlessly blends editorial elegance with everyday wearable glam, making her a go-to for those who appreciate refined yet approachable beauty inspiration.

• @vanessa_gyimah – A master of blending techniques and glowing skin, Vanessa creates stunning looks with impeccable artistry. Her flawless application and radiant finishes make her content a visual masterpiece.

• @schaebreezy – A true multi-hyphenate creator, balancing fresh, soft-glam beauty with fashion and travel. Whether she’s sharing a seamlessly blended makeup look or an effortlessly chic outfit, her content is the epitome of polished yet wearable glamour.

• @withkarenchilds – Your go-to fitness and nutrition coach, showing how to achieve your health and wellness goals from home. With an emphasis on accessible workouts and balanced living, she inspires a holistic approach to beauty from the inside out.

• @funmimonet – A true connoisseur of fragrance, delivering witty, honest, and sophisticated fragrance reviews. Her engaging personality and expertise make her recommendations both entertaining and invaluable for anyone looking to build a luxurious scent wardrobe.

• @theeislandboi – Celebrity makeup artist Theo Turner brings a jet-setting perspective to luxury beauty and fashion. From exclusive product reviews to high-end fashion moments, his content is an insider’s guide to opulence and style.

• @makeupshayla – A pioneer of bold glam, outfit inspiration, and lifestyle content. Shayla’s polished aesthetic and expert makeup skills make her one of the most influential voices in beauty and fashion.

• @snitchery – A creator who effortlessly blends luxury beauty, cosplay, and editorial aesthetics. With a unique ability to transform looks while maintaining a high-fashion edge, her content is both visually striking and endlessly inspiring.

Legacy Mention: Jackie Aina—a powerhouse who shifted the luxury beauty space for Black women and continues to set the standard.

Each of these influencers brings a distinctive voice to beauty and lifestyle content, proving that luxury, artistry, and authenticity can coexist beautifully. Diversifying who you follow not only enhances your feed but also supports a more inclusive and representative beauty space.

The Importance of Understanding Black American History in Beauty & Fashion

It is important to take the time to learn—and continuously learn—about Black American history to truly understand American culture, beauty, and fashion culture as a whole. The nuances, struggles, and contributions of Black Americans are woven into the fabric of many of today’s trends.

As a Caribbean-born creator, I recognize that my Trinidadian history is completely different from African American history, just as all parts of the African Diaspora have unique stories. This is why it is not enough to rely on what was taught in school or what’s shown in mainstream media.

True understanding comes from deliberate learning, deep conversations, and respecting cultural origins. By educating ourselves on these histories, we gain a fuller picture of why beauty trends exist, how they evolved, and who pioneered them.

📖 Essential Books on Black Beauty, Culture, and Influence

For those who seek to understand the legacy, artistry, and cultural impact of Black beauty, these books offer a profound exploration of its history and significance in the global beauty industry.

• Black Beauty: A History and a Celebration – Ben Arogundade
  A visually stunning and compelling account of the evolution of Black beauty, highlighting pioneering figures, cultural shifts, and the deep influence of Black aesthetics on the global beauty industry.

• Beauty Shop Politics: African American Women's Activism in the Beauty Industry – Tiffany M. Gill
  This book uncovers the powerful intersection of beauty and activism, revealing how Black beauty salons have historically served as community spaces for social change, empowerment, and entrepreneurship.

🎥 Must-Watch Documentaries on Black Beauty & Entrepreneurship

These critically acclaimed documentaries showcase the resilience, influence, and innovation of Black beauty entrepreneurs and culture.

• Self Made (Netflix) – A captivating portrayal of Madam C.J. Walker, America’s first Black woman millionaire, whose influence forever changed the beauty industry.

Deepen Your Knowledge & Celebrate Black Beauty’s Influence

The evolution of beauty is rooted in history, culture, and artistry. By exploring these resources, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how Black beauty has shaped global trends, luxury markets, and modern beauty standards.

Conclusion: The Future of Beauty Honors Its Origins

Beauty is more than just trends—it is a reflection of culture, innovation, and authenticity. The influence of Black beauty is undeniable, shaping the industry in ways that deserve recognition and respect. As beauty continues to evolve, its future belongs to those who understand its history, uplift its creators, and celebrate its true origins.

Join the Conversation

How do you see beauty evolving, and what influences do you believe deserve more recognition? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to continue the conversation.

If this post resonated with you, consider sharing it with your community. Thoughtful conversations move the industry forward, and together, we can create a more inclusive and informed beauty space.

For a deeper discussion, subscribe to my YouTube channel—a full breakdown of this topic is coming soon.