Let’s talk about how we can vote for more inclusivity simply by using our dollars. At Klei, we promote buying from small businesses first and foremost, but in light of recent events we have been thinking a lot about our privilege as a predominantly white, small business.
Black businesses need our support everyday, but make sure that today, if you are buying, buy black. No matter what the color of your skin is, stand in solidarity with this community that is ridden with grief. Here is a quick roundup of our favorite small businesses in the beauty and wellness industry that are led by black female founders. We hope you will choose to buy and advocate for these brands!
Golde - is a chic wellness brand that covers you in all areas of self-care. They sell matcha, powders to boost your smoothies, and dabble in skincare. Golde was co-founded by Trinity Wouzon Mofford, a woman of color who now serves as the Chief Executive Officer.
- “When two-year-old wellness brand Golde sent us their to-go packets of turmeric powder to try, they were gone in a day. Needless to say, we’re big fans, especially since co-founder Trinity Mouzon Wofford is the youngest black woman to have her products in Sephora.” - Coveteur
Ode to Self - is a skincare line designed specifically for the skincare needs of POC skin. The entire Ode to Self collection has been formulated for the needs of Black women first, instead of being an afterthought in the development process. Founded by Kimberlee Alexandria, who carried Klei as one of her store's self-care brands before launching her own line.
- "Each bottle is made 100% in-house, with no animal testing or harm and specifically "for the girl with brown and black skin in mind.” It's become so popular in my home that I now have to fight my fiancé over who gets to use the De Palma Hydrating and Clarifying Facial Oil in the morning." - Refinery 29
Uoma Beauty - led and founded by Nigerian born, Sharon Chuter, Uoma Beauty aims to bring inclusivity to make up. This brand features a wide range of products that meet the needs of any and all complexions.
- “ Pronounced OMA (uh-mah) the brand's name literally means beautiful—a translation of its theory that beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself. Founded by Nigerian born, L.A.- and London-based former beauty executive Sharon Chuter, UOMA is ruled by inclusivity and diversity.” - Who What Wear
Honey Pot - is a feminine wellness brand aiming to protect women from BV as well as urinary tract infections, yeast infections and other ailments. ALSO! All of their products are vegan & cruelty free. Led by Brea Dixon who has a passion for gentle solutions for sensitive areas & is also, you guessed it a strong woman of color!
- “In addition to providing all-natural feminine care (for people with vaginas, by people with vaginas), the brand has partnered with #happyperiod to give menstrual products to women living in poverty.” - Well & Good
Pear Nova - is a super neat nail lacquer brand that is vegan, cruelty free and free of the big five (formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, camphor, toluene, and dibutyl Phthalate DBP.) Each shade of this polish is perfectly designed to compliment the beautiful shades of people of color. Most important of all, Pear Nova is led by strong black female entrepreneurship. It was founded in 2012 by Rachel James.
- “Pear Nova pulls inspiration from the runway to create vibrant nail polishes that paint on like silk. You won’t find nasty ingredients like formaldehyde, resin, or camphor in the ten-free line. These polishes have a clean ingredient list—and also come in gel—but don’t sacrifice pigment or wear. If you’re a nail art novice, don’t fret. Pear Nova also offers lacquer duos that make it easy to create gorgeous designs.” - Harper's Bazaar