Twok London

The beauty industry has long been shaped by women—through creativity, innovation, and sheer hustle. But for many years, the brands behind the products weren’t always run by women. That’s changing fast.

Today, women-owned beauty brands are setting new standards. From inclusive shade ranges to clean skincare, these companies are putting authenticity, community, and purpose at the heart of beauty. Many of them are founded by women of color, women from immigrant backgrounds, and women who simply got tired of not being represented.

Here’s a look at the most inspiring women-owned beauty brands, including rising African entrepreneurs making waves.

1. TWOK London (Founded by a Black Woman)

TWOK London is a standout brand that embodies everything powerful about women-led beauty. Founded by a visionary African woman, it focuses on products that celebrate melanin-rich skin.

From foundations that truly match darker skin tones to bold loose pigments that pop—TWOK London understands representation isn’t a trend, it’s a necessity.

Available at: Brandlistry.ng, where Nigerian consumers can shop locally and affordably.

2. Beauty Bakerie – Cashmere Nicole

Cashmere Nicole built Beauty Bakerie while battling breast cancer, turning her pain into purpose. Her brand is known for smudge-proof, long-wear products with playful packaging inspired by desserts.

Top Picks:

• Lip Whip liquid lipsticks

• Flour Setting Powder

• Dessert-themed eyeshadow palettes

3. The Lip Bar – Melissa Butler

Started in her kitchen and rejected on Shark Tank, Melissa Butler’s Lip Bar is now a nationwide brand in the U.S. Her mission? To make beauty inclusive and accessible.

Why We Love It:

• Vegan, cruelty-free formulas

• Stunning lip shades for all skin tones

• Fast Face kits for busy women

4. House of Tara – Tara Fela-Durotoye (Nigeria)

Tara is a beauty industry trailblazer in Nigeria. Her brand, House of Tara, is more than a makeup label—it’s a platform for training, empowering, and uplifting young African women.

Impact:

• Launched Nigeria’s first makeup school

• Created jobs for thousands of beauty reps

• Built a local makeup brand that celebrates African beauty

5. Mented Cosmetics – KJ Miller & Amanda Johnson

Founded by two women who couldn’t find the perfect nude lipstick for their skin tone, Mented has since grown into a full makeup brand.

Highlights:

• Nude lipsticks tailored for darker skin tones

• Cream foundations and powders

• Everyday makeup with a luxe feel

6. Pauline Cosmetics – Pauline O.

Pauline Cosmetics is one of Kenya’s rising stars in beauty. Founded by Pauline O., it offers high-quality, accessible makeup for African women who want products that match their skin and lifestyle.

Fan Faves:

• Foundation sticks

• Bold lip colors

• Inclusive marketing

7. Uoma Beauty – Sharon Chuter

Nigerian-born Sharon Chuter launched Uoma Beauty to shake the table. The brand blends Afro-futurism, cultural pride, and fierce inclusivity with science-forward formulas.

What Sets It Apart:

• 6 foundation formulas by skin type

• Bold packaging and messaging

• Products that make statements

Why Women-Owned Beauty Matters

When women lead, beauty becomes more:

• Inclusive: Products for real skin tones and textures

• Purposeful: Built around community and impact

• Innovative: Designed with everyday experiences in mind

Women-owned brands often prioritize:

• Clean and ethical formulations

• Diverse shade ranges

• Representation in marketing

They don't just sell products—they reflect stories, solve problems, and challenge the status quo.

Final Thoughts

Every time you choose a women-owned beauty brand, you invest in a ripple effect—supporting leadership, inclusion, and equity in an industry that desperately needs it.

Start with TWOK London, explore African favorites like House of Tara and Pauline Cosmetics, and discover global powerhouses like Beauty Bakerie and The Lip Bar.

Because beauty is better when it’s built by women, for women.