The feeling of finding an indie band before they blow up is immensely underrated. Uncovering independent beauty and wellness brands is no different.

Story by Kennedy Williams

As the beauty and wellness industries become more inclusive to cater to a broader audience, women of color are creating brands that increase representation without sacrificing quality. Keep an eye out for these brands that produce small batch products.

Folie Apothecary

Photos courtesy of Tribeza Austin Magazine and Myth & Symbol

Founded in 2015 by Austinite Nikisha Brunson, Folie Apothecary is handmade from 100% natural ingredients. Folie features organic products made without synthetic preservatives, silicone, sulfates or fragrance oils. Folie was one of the first brands to be featured in Solange’s Saint Heron shop. While face serums and hair oils are currently available, Brunson updates the shop regularly with new products. A look at Brunson’s Instagram reveals her knack for DIY lotions and toothpaste.

Afro Hair & Skin Co.

Photos courtesy of The Afro Hair & Skin Co.

Based in the UK, Afro Hair & Skin Co. pledges to create “truly organic and natural products carefully crafted by hand, using fresh natural and locally sourced ingredients that will feed your skin and hair with all the goodness necessary to blossom and be truly healthy.” The ingredients for their products are grown and harvested in the UK, leading to sustainable, Fair Trade products. Founder Ibi Meier-Oruitemeka is passionate about holistic health and wellness, inspiring Afro Hair & Skin Co. to focus on natural beauty.

Vee + Co

Photos courtesy of Vee + Co

Self-described as a “good vibe dealer of plant and earth-based feel goods,” Vee + Co is a cruelty free, plant-based brand that strives to nourish the body, spirit and soul. Each product is made with the intention of uplifting the wearer. From aromatherapy roll-ons and body butters to beard mists and cleansers, Vee + Co caters to a plethora of consumers in an effort to promote holistic health.

CLEANSE by Lauren Napier

Photos courtesy of Forbes and Tracey Gray Mann

Founded by former celebrity makeup artist Lauren Napier, CLEANSE has revolutionized the makeup remover wipe. With CLEANSE, they are no longer just for removing makeup after a long day, but for refreshing the face. Female owned and operated, CLEANSE is made from cruelty-free ingredients and manufactured using solar energy.

BASE Butter

Photos courtesy of Inspired by Krys and BASE Butter

In 2015, Sheneil Johnson founded BASE Butter, a brand that empowers women to discover, protect and love their most authentic selves. BASE Butter’s skin care essentials are made with ingredients such as shea butter, tea tree oil and aloe vera. After a six-month transition period called the “The Glow Up,” BASE butter is back with new products. Shine during the winter with their GLOW Shimmer Stick and RADIATE Hydrating Face Gel.