the history of black women & makeup

The history of Black women and makeup is rich and complex, deeply intertwined with cultural identity, resistance, and beauty traditions. Long before the era of slavery, African women used natural ingredients to enhance their appearance and express individuality. These included plant-based dyes, clays, and oils for skin and hair adornment.

During slavery in America, the use of makeup by Black women was limited by oppressive societal constraints. However, enslaved Black women still found ways to maintain their beauty rituals using available natural materials. They often utilized homemade concoctions from herbs, charcoal, and berries for face and body decoration. These practices served not only as a form of personal care but also as subtle acts of self-expression and cultural preservation amidst harsh conditions.

Despite the lack of access to commercial makeup products, Black women during slavery maintained grooming routines that honored their heritage. The legacy of these early beauty practices laid important groundwork for the eventual rise of Black beauty culture and the cosmetics industry designed specifically for women of color. Today, this history is celebrated as a testament to resilience, creativity, and the enduring importance of beauty in Black women's lives.